CS 1190

CS 1190: Fundamentals of Quantum Information Science

Fall 2026 | Department of Computer Science | University of Texas at El Paso

An accessible introduction to qubits, superposition, measurement, interference, entanglement, quantum algorithms, cybersecurity, and the future of quantum technologies.

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Dr. Saidur Rahman
Instructor
Dr. Saidur Rahman
Computer Science,
University of Texas at El Paso
Credits
1 credit hour
Location
Texas Western Hall 317
Class Schedule
Mondays, 3:00 PM--4:20 PM MT
Office Hours
Tuesdays, 2:00 PM--3:00 PM MT

Course Rationale and Goals

Quantum information science is increasingly important to computing, cybersecurity, communication, and emerging technologies. This course provides an accessible introduction for computer science students without requiring prior quantum physics.

  • Introduce the foundations of quantum information science.
  • Explain how quantum information differs from classical information.
  • Build intuition about qubits, measurement, interference, and entanglement.
  • Introduce quantum gates, circuits, and algorithms.
  • Connect quantum computing to cybersecurity and post-quantum cryptography.
  • Prepare students for further study or research in quantum computing and security.

Course Themes

Foundations

Classical bits, qubits, superposition, measurement, and probability.

Quantum Circuits

Gates, interference, multi-qubit systems, controlled operations, and entanglement.

Algorithms and Security

Quantum algorithms, computational advantage, cryptographic impact, and post-quantum security.

Quantum Technologies

Noise, decoherence, error correction, hardware limits, and future directions.

Expected Outcomes

  • Explain why quantum information science matters to computer science.
  • Distinguish classical bits and qubits.
  • Describe superposition, measurement, and probability in quantum systems.
  • Interpret simple quantum gates and circuits.
  • Explain quantum interference and entanglement.
  • Explain no-cloning and quantum teleportation conceptually.
  • Describe the significance of major quantum algorithms.
  • Explain how quantum computing affects modern cryptography.
  • Identify current limitations and future directions of quantum technologies.

Prerequisites and Assessment

Recommended Prerequisites

  • Completion of an introductory programming sequence (CS I / CS II or equivalent).
  • Basic familiarity with discrete mathematics.
  • No prior background in quantum mechanics or physics required.
  • Linear algebra is helpful but not required; concepts are introduced as needed.

Assessment Components

  • Participation and attendance.
  • Short concept checks or quizzes.
  • Brief reflection assignments.
  • Lightweight hands-on activities.
  • Final mini-presentation, one-page explainer, or short concept demonstration.
Final Concept Explainer. Students craft a concise explanation of one quantum information concept for a computer science audience, emphasizing clarity and accuracy.

Recommended Platforms

These tools support circuit building, simulation, and access to quantum hardware.