Teaching quantum computing to computer science students: Review of a hands-on quantum circuit simulation practical
Abstract
We present a practical course targeting graduate students with prior knowledge of the basics of quantum computing. The practical aims to deepen students' understanding of fundamental concepts in quantum computing by implementing quantum circuit simulators. Through hands-on experience, students learn about different methods to simulate quantum computing, including state vectors, density matrices, the stabilizer formalism, and matrix product states. By implementing the simulation methods themselves, students develop a more in-depth understanding of fundamental concepts in quantum computing, including superposition, entanglement, and the effects of noise on quantum systems. This hands-on experience prepares students to do research in the field of quantum computing and equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle complex research projects in the field. In this work, we describe our teaching approach and the structure of our practical, and we discuss evaluations and lessons learned.
Cite
@article{arxiv.2511.17218,
title = {Teaching quantum computing to computer science students: Review of a hands-on quantum circuit simulation practical},
author = {Florian Krötz and Xiao-Ting Michelle To and Korbinian Staudacher and Dieter Kranzlmüller},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2511.17218},
year = {2025}
}
Comments
This paper is submitted and accepted in the Fourth Annual Quantum Science and Engineering Education Conference (QSEEC25), which is collocated with the IEEE International Conference on Quantum Computing & Engineering (QCE25), part of IEEE Quantum Week 2025