COMS 4281: Introduction to Quantum Computing (Spring 2026)

Time: T Th 2:40 - 3:55

Location: CSB 451

Instructor: James Bartusek

Syllabus 

TAs: Kate Bonner, Jake Januzelli, Shreya Nagpal, Arman Ozcan, Asher Yan

Office Hours: 

• Mondays: Asher 10-12, CSB 5th floor common area

• Tuesdays: Kate 12:30-2:30, CSB 5th floor common area

• Wednesdays: Shreya 2-4, CSB 5th floor common area

• Thursdays: Jake 11-1, CSB 488

• Fridays: Arman 9-11, online at this link 

Description: This class is an introduction to the theory of quantum computing and quantum information. Topics covered include:

• The fundamental postulates of quantum information theory

• The quantum circuit model

• Core quantum protocols, such as quantum teleportation and superdense coding

• Entanglement and nonlocality

• Core quantum algorithms, such as Simons’ algorithm, the quantum fourier transform, phase estimation, Shor’s factoring algorithm, and Grover search

• Special topics: quantum error correction, quantum complexity theory, and quantum cryptography

The goal of the course is to provide a rigorous foundation for future research/studies in quantum computing and quantum information, and along the way provide students with an understanding of the state of the field, and where it’s headed.

Grading: Two problem sets (20%), Weekly quizzes (10%), Midterm (35%), Final (35%). 

Worksheets:

1. Worksheet 1 (Week of 1/26)

2. Worksheet 2 (Week of 2/2)

3. Worksheet 3 (Week of 2/9)

4. Worksheet 4 (Week of 2/16)

Problem Sets:

1. LaTeX file: tex, Overleaf link: pset1, PDF preview: pdf