Preparing for a Quantum Future Course

New quantum technologies in sensing, computing and communications are poised to revolutionise medicine, finance, logistics, cryptology, encryption, surveillance, and more.

How are we preparing for a quantum future? What is it? What is changing and how are we managing it as a global community?

This self-paced course, created by the University of Sydney’s Centre of International Security Studies (CISS), will explain the quantum revolution emerging from universities, big tech, and governments and the pressing need for awareness of its geopolitical, societal and ethical implications.

This course is the first of its kind. It provides a comprehensive, non-mathematical overview of quantum mechanics, from its historical origins and theoretical significance to its past applications and future potential.

It is suitable for anyone, including military personnel, government officials, industry professionals, NGOs, or anyone who is simply curious. By taking this course, you will develop the knowledge and insights necessary to navigate the emerging quantum future with confidence.

Acknowledgements

This short course was developed as part of the Critical Quantum Technology: Creating Scientific Fluency, Ethical Awareness and Policy Options for a Quantum Future Project. This Project is supported by the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, under the Australia-India Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership (AICCTP). 

Some of the research and interviews included in this course were made possible by a grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. We also wish to acknowledge the contributions made by our AICCTP collaborators at the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi, India.

The statements and views expressed in this course are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not reflect the views or positions of the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Carnegie Corporation of New York, the Centre for International Security Studies at the University of Sydney, or the Observer Research Foundation. 

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.

Outcomes

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.

Content

This course consists of four content modules.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Intended audience

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.

Prerequisites

None. This course is self-contained.

Delivery style

This course is delivered online through our learning management system, Canvas 2. The course is asynchronous, so students can complete the course at their own pace over the course of the year.

Delivery Mode

Self-paced online. Approximately 4.5 hours duration.

Assessment

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

Materials

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

Prescribed text and recommended reading

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.