Relevance of Quantum Computing for Undergraduate Computer Science Students

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to determine whether it is worthwhile for an undergraduate student to study quantum computing while getting a BA/BS in Computer Science if courses on the subject matter are offered. To accomplish this objective, I’ve gained a high level understanding of the field of quantum computing in general, and I also did some detailed research involving specific usage of quantum computing within academia and industry.¶ Quantum computing as referenced in this paper refers to using quantum computers to program, simulate, and compute some algorithm to produce a useful result. Classical computing refers to computing and programming that is done on a traditional and common computer such as a cloud based server, laptop, desktop, or smartphone that use traditional silicon based chips. This paper first examines the use case of quantum computing from a high level.¶ perspective. It then describes the nature of quantum computers and the current state of quantum computing by drawing a comparison to the current state of classical computing and the evolution of classical computers and programming. Finally, this paper explains the research that I did in regards to the application of quantum computing within academia and industry. (Introduction)