EDUCATION IN QUANTUM

While careers in quantum technologies have traditionally been linked to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines, the field is rapidly evolving. An increasing range of educational pathways is creating opportunities for individuals from diverse academic backgrounds to enter the sector.

Apprenticeships and Technical Education

Apprenticeships and technical qualifications provide an important route into the quantum sector, offering opportunities to gain practical experience while earning a salary. As quantum technologies continue to grow, employers increasingly require skilled engineers, technicians and laboratory specialists who can support research, technology development, manufacturing and deployment activities.

Apprenticeships combine paid employment with structured training and are available at different levels, from entry-level programmes through to degree and master's-equivalent qualifications. They can provide pathways into a range of quantum-relevant occupations, including electronics engineering, mechanical engineering, laboratory technology, manufacturing, software and technical support roles.

For those considering technical career routes, apprenticeships can offer a valuable alternative to full-time university study while still providing opportunities for progression into higher education and specialist roles.

Many UK universities, research organisations, national laboratories and employers offer apprenticeship and work-based learning opportunities in areas such as engineering, electronics, computing, software development, manufacturing and laboratory science. These disciplines provide important skills for the growing quantum technologies sector and can be valuable pathways into quantum-related careers.

To explore current apprenticeship opportunities and training programmes, visit the UK Government website on apprenticeships and UCAS’s information on apprenticeships.  

T Levels

T Levels can provide valuable preparation for careers in quantum technologies and related sectors. T Levels include substantial industry placements, giving students the opportunity to gain workplace experience and develop practical skills before progressing into employment, apprenticeships or higher education.

To learn more about T Levels and technical qualifications, visit the UK Government’s website on T Levels and the National Career Service.  

Technicians

Technicians play a vital role in supporting innovation, research, manufacturing, and engineering across a wide range of industries, including the growing quantum sector.  

These careers offer practical, hands-on opportunities and can be accessed through vocational qualifications, apprenticeships, and professional development pathways.  

You can find out more about technician careers through Technicians | We Make the Difference, explore government support and opportunities via Tech First and Learn about professional registration and standards at UK ITSS.

Masters degrees

Given the transformative potential of, and substantial global investment in, quantum technologies, many UK Universities have started offering specialist Masters-level degrees on the subject:

Doctoral programmes

For those aiming for a research-focused career in academia or industry, a PhD or doctoral degree remains a common pathway, providing the opportunity to specialise in a specific area and develop advanced research expertise.

PhDs can be undertaken in all UK Universities offering graduate programmes in any of the key subject areas (physics, engineering, mathematics, computer science) and there is often support in the form of fully funded studentships offered by these institutions.  

As part of government commitment to skills and training in quantum technologies, UKRI – the country’s main research funding organisation – has invested funds in the creation of quantum-focused CDTs, or Centres for Doctoral Training.  

CDTs are four-year structured doctoral programmes that provide full funding, including tuition fees, a stipend, and dedicated research and travel budgets. Delivered through a cohort-based model, CDTs encourage collaboration among students, which is often further strengthened through industry engagement, including short-term placements and internships.  

The current CDTs with a quantum specialist focus are:  

  • EPSRC CDT in Applied Quantum Technologies (CDT-AQT): a partnership between the Universities of Strathclyde and Glasgow, and Heriot-Watt University, offering PhD positions in quantum measurement and sensing, quantum computing and simulation, and quantum communications and networks.
  • Quantum Informatics (QI CDT): a partnership between the Universities of Edinburgh, Oxford, Strathclyde, UCL and Heriot-Watt University, this CDT works closely with the Quantum Software Lab (part of the National Quantum Computing Centre) to deliver doctoral training in quantum informatics.  
  • Quantum Technology Engineering (QTE CDT): based at the University of Southampton with a focus on quantum components, fabrication techniques, assembly of devices and systems, and engineering for a range of applications.
  • Algebra Geometry and Quantum Fields AGQ CDT: a collaborative initiative between Heriot-Watt University, the University of Edinburgh, and the University of Glasgow with a focus on advanced mathematics, geometry, algebra, quantum field theory, scientific computing, courses that bridge traditional mathematical boundaries.

Continuous Professional Development
(CPD) and Professional Training

As quantum technologies continue to evolve, there is increasing demand for professionals with a broad range of skills and expertise. Continuous Professional Development (CPD) provides opportunities for individuals to develop new knowledge, upskill for quantum-related roles, or gain an understanding of how quantum technologies may impact their sector.

Opportunities range from self-paced online learning and short professional courses to workshops, hackathons, industry events and specialist training programmes. These resources support learners at different stages of their careers, from students and early-career researchers to experienced professionals seeking to transition into the quantum sector.

The UK’s national labs are leading this effort, alongside specialist industry groups, technology and trade associations such as techUK, professional bodies such as the Institute of Physics and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (specifically their Quantum Engineering Technical Network),  the UK Catapult Network and specialist training consultant QURECA.  

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL), UK’s national metrology institute, is providing essential quantum skills courses tailored to a number of diverse audiences and their specific needs. A full list of their offerings is available at their Quantum Programme website.  

The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) is offering professional development quantum training at various levels, starting with basic quantum computing skills online courses available to all but primarily undergraduate and graduate students, plus technical professionals with a background in STEM. Alongside the University of Bristol, they also offer more advanced courses for researchers in academia and industry for roles associated with the quantum computing sector, e.g. quantum algorithmic analysis, quantum information theory and quantum computing architectures. Finally, the NQCC is the organiser of the annual UK hackathon, aimed specifically at students and early career researchers who want to gain hands-on experience with coding with quantum computers.  

University-led Professional Learning

Many UK universities now offer short courses and professional training opportunities designed to introduce quantum technologies to new audiences.

Imperial College is offering a Quantum Fundamentals course aimed at introducing UK policy makers to basic concepts of quantum mechanics, the potential of quantum technologies, and the challenges associated with hardware development.  

UCL is offering a 10-hour/2-week, self-paced online accredited introductory course to quantum computing for industry professionals and anyone interested in these emerging technologies. The course aims to introduce the fundamentals of quantum theory to those who don’t necessarily possess an in-depth mathematical background.  

Industry and Professional Bodies

Professional bodies, trade associations and specialist training providers also play an important role in building quantum skills across the UK ecosystem. Through training courses, workshops, conferences, networking events and educational resources, these organisations support both individuals and businesses seeking to engage with quantum technologies.  

Examples include:

  • Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), through its Quantum Engineering Technical Network, provides webinars, technical events and knowledge-sharing opportunities for engineers working in quantum technologies.  
  • techUK, supports quantum awareness, commercialisation and adoption through its quantum working groups, events and Quantum Readiness programme.   
  • Digital Catapult, which delivers the Quantum Technology Access Programme to help organisations explore practical applications of quantum computing and build internal capability.  
  • IBM Quantum Learning, which offers online courses covering quantum computing, quantum algorithms, software development and business applications.   
  • Q-CTRL, whose Black Opal learning platform provides interactive training resources for learners ranging from beginners to industry professionals.   
  • QURECA, which provides tailored quantum training programmes for individuals, educators and organisations

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