Curriculum announced for MTech in quantum tech

The All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), in collaboration with the Department of Science (DST), has announced a curriculum for the MTech programme on quantum technologies.

The programme encompasses diverse quantum verticals spanning computing, communications, sensing and materials, with an emphasis to provide hands-on training through projects.

The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is one of the initiatives conceptualised under PM’s Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council, aimed at positioning India as a global leader in quantum technology.

The curriculum proposes both theory and lab courses in this curriculum. The course structure is divided into core courses, specialization electives, open electives and a project. Institutions and students are encouraged to incorporate project-based learning approaches wherever possible to enhance the impact of the curriculum. With a minimum of 80 credits, it will be spread over four semesters.

Dr Abhay Karandikar, Secretary at DST, said, “Designed by leading experts, the programme blends theory, lab training, applied research and real-world challenges. It will empower students to become innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs and tech leaders in one of the most transformative frontiers of science.”

He urged institutes to adopt the curriculum proactively. “Universities and technical institutions are encouraged to adopt and implement this programme, building a sustainable talent pipeline for India’s quantum future,” Karandikar added.

According to the curriculum for the MTech program, extensive training programmes for teachers are necessary to enable them to do justice to the goals of the MTech programme.

“Such sustained teacher training efforts will also enhance the quality of the training imparted to students over the years leading to long-term benefits and enable India to become a world leader in this field. We also believe that a textbook writing exercise should be carried out to cater to the needs of this graduate-level programme in quantum technologies,” according to the model curriculum.