Program Overview

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Preparing for a Quantum Future Course

Overview

The Preparing for a Quantum Future Course is a self-paced short course that explores the global impact, ethics, and future implications of quantum technology. Created by the University of Sydney’s Centre of International Security Studies (CISS), this course provides a comprehensive, non-mathematical overview of quantum mechanics, from its historical origins and theoretical significance to its past applications and future potential.

Course Details

• Course Type: Short course
• Delivery Mode: Self-paced
• Start Date: Anytime
• Duration: Approximately 5 hours
• Price: A$55.00

What You'll Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain quantum mechanics in simple language, including its origins, history, and fundamental concepts.
• Understand the global forces driving the quantum industry, identify key practical and regulatory issues, and assess the geopolitical and security implications.
• Formulate strategies to address the ethical challenges arising from the development and commercialisation of quantum technologies.
• Critically assess technological advancements and their potential implications for war, peace, and security, including military applications.
• Understand the geopolitical implications of the emerging "quantum race" between the United States and China.

Aims

This course aims to provide participants with a basic non-mathematical understanding of quantum mechanics, as well as the ethical and geopolitical implications of quantum technologies. By gaining this knowledge, participants will be equipped to navigate the complex emerging quantum landscape with a heightened awareness of its potential impact on global power dynamics, economic disparities, and societal well-being.

Content

The course is divided into four modules:

Module 1: Quantum Mechanics

Gain a non-mathematical understanding of quantum mechanics, including key concepts such as quantum states, Schrödinger’s equation, the uncertainty principle, and wave-particle duality. Explore various hypotheses surrounding the interpretation of quantum mechanics and the role of quantum mechanics in shaping our understanding of the physical world.

Module 2: Quantum Industry

Delve into the current state of quantum technology, the emerging global quantum industry, and their implications for various sectors, including government and defence. Explore industry breakthroughs and the potential applications of quantum technologies in computing, communications, and sensing. Explore the ‘Ethical AI’ industry as a case study.

Module 3: Quantum Geopolitics

Examine the geopolitical implications of quantum technologies, including the emerging ‘quantum race’ among major powers, the potential for strategic and economic supremacy, military applications of quantum technology, and the impact on diplomacy and international politics.

Module 4: Quantum Ethics

Discover the key ethical considerations and concerns that are engendered by quantum technologies. Consider the ethical implications of quantum technologies and their role in shaping the future of warfare and peace. Understand the potential for inequality of strategic capacity and power between nations, and the implications for global equity.

Who is this Course For?

This course is suitable for secondary and university students, military personnel, government officials, industry professionals, NGOs, and anyone who wants to learn about quantum and its societal, ethical, and geopolitical implications.

Course Delivery Style

This course is delivered online through the learning management system, Canvas. The course is asynchronous, so students can complete the course at their own pace over the course of the year. On average, it takes approximately 5 hours to complete the course.

Materials

This course is fully self-contained, and all course materials are provided within the course.

Prerequisites

None. This course is self-contained.

Course Assessment

This course is assessed via quizzes that are designed to test your knowledge and retention of the course content. These quizzes are designed to aid learning and comprehension.

Materials and Technology

All necessary course materials are provided within the course, and there are no prescribed texts. Supplementary readings and online resource recommendations are provided for students who wish to dive deeper into specific topics.

Facilitators

The course is facilitated by:

• James Der Derian
• Jayson C. Waters
• Stuart Rollo
• Gabi Skoff
• Prachi Mishra

Each facilitator brings their expertise in international security, science and technology, media studies, and quantum technologies to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.