I got admits for both Masters in Physics: Quantum Computing at University of Wisconsin Madison and Master of Professional Studies - Quantum Computing at University of Maryland College Park. I did my undergrad in Artificial Intelligence. Both universities are great and now I’m struck deciding.
2 Likes
Both are great - FANTASTIC.
So it might mean that either will work - so you’ve got small city but in the city, with a lake vs. I can be at DC in well under an hour.
Cost differntial?
Have you studied faculty - is there anyone doing something that interests you?
I’m not sure here - but I’m reading about the Masters of Professional Studies - is that the equivalent of an MS because they also talk about a certificate? I don’t see another Masters in Quantum Computing at UMD - but just want to make sure it’s the equivalent of an MS at Wisconsin, etc.
It’s likely you’ll do fine from both.
Best of luck to you.
1 Like
UMD is very well known for quantum computing - but like tsbna, I have no idea what a “Master of Professional Studies” is. That would be my first concern. Find out (or ask them directly) how it compares with an MS.
What do you plan to do after graduation? Are you a domestic or international student?
Also, if your username is your real name you may want to change it for privacy. Here’s how:
1 Like
Hopefully someone personally familiar will respond!
2 Likes
@Unfunnypanda if this screen name is your real name, I would urge you to change it asap. Here is how:
It is a non thesis masters.
“ The Master of Professional Studies in Quantum Computing is a 30-credit, 10-course, non-thesis graduate program that provides students with foundational, practical, and theoretical topics of quantum computing. Students discover current state-of-the-art quantum computing technology and areas of application, and explore origins, evolution, and possible future states of this technology. Experiential learning is at the core of the program and courses provide students with ample opportunities to apply concepts on current-day commercial quantum computing hardware.
The curriculum prepares students to apply the principles and techniques of quantum computing to the solution of a variety of problems in optimization, secure communications, encryption, materials discovery and any such problems that require considerable computing resources. Students develop quantum computing programs and implement them on quantum computing platforms. Students learn to differentiate the many technologies currently used to implement quantum computers and compare their intrinsic strengths and limitations. No prior knowledge in quantum physics or quantum computing is necessary.”
2 Likes
Thanks for the response!!
Im not factoring in the Cost Differential.
As for the Master of Professional Studies (MPS) versus Master of Science (MS), MPS typically emphasizes practical application over theory.
Yeah ig both of them are really good Universities, but I just don’t want to take any chances as of now. So I’m trying to dig in a bit more so that I can the right choice.
Yeah I agree. UMD is well know for Quantum Computing as they started the Joint Quantum Institute way back in 2006. At the same time Wisconsin started a few years ago but they made really good connections with some universities and companies which are doing really good in terms of quantum research.
I plan on doing a PhD, but if I get a good package I will hit the job first.
Thanks for letting me know!!
Is it typical in this area to do a masters separate from a PhD?
If money is not an obstacle and working for a while is a possibility, I would go with UMD. This is due to an established program and location = to jobs in DC and NY.
Yeah mostly. Mostly cause for the specialized training in terms of quantum computing and mechanics.
1 Like
Yeah I did!!!
Thankyou!
I had this doubt. Does UMD has significant difference in placement when compared to other Universities cause of the location?
Well it depends. I do not know much about Quantum computing, but I live in DC area for 25 years and a lot of UMD graduates in general stay in DC area and have no problems finding jobs here.
And forgot to answer, I’m an international student. Does that affect anything?
That’s something really good to hear!
I guess overall UMD is a better choice compared to UW. If possible can I know about the off-campus housing situation. I heard that it’s really bad in Wisconsin.
What do you plan to do when you graduate? In most cases, international students return to their home country. You will be here on a student visa, and when that ends, you might need to leave this country.
1 Like
I didn’t plan anything as of now. But mostly I will go for a PhD or work as a research assistant for sometime.
Yes it does. You most likely will not get visa to work without PHD. Forget about working in the US prior to going for PHD.
Chose school that most likely will take you directly for PhD. That maybe UW.
You will not have a visa to work anywhere but campus. No internships while doing Masters.
3 Likes
I guessed that above, which is why I had asked.
It does make a big difference in finding a job because a lot of roles involving quantum computing require US citizenship and/or security clearance.
To be safe, you should map out what you’ll do in your home country post graduation.
You shouldn’t need to doubt UMD. It’s a well known school.
And why do you think you need a Master’s first before doing a PhD? What do you plan to do with a PhD?
2 Likes