This open access textbook uses simple language and minimal math to explain quantum computing and the key physical ideas behind it. It bridges the gap between pop-sci articles and advanced textbooks and can be used for self-study or adapted for a range of courses from high-school to college level.
Quantum computing is a growing field at the intersection of physics and computer science. The goal of this article is to highlight a successfully trialled quantum computing course for high school students between the ages of 15 and 18 years old. This course was designed to bridge the gap between popular science articles and advanced undergraduate textbooks. Conceptual ideas in the text are reinforced with active learning techniques, such as interactive problem sets and simulation-based labs at various levels. The course is freely available for use and download under the Creative Commons “Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International” license.
Aimed at advanced undergraduate and graduate-level students, this textbook covers the core topics of quantum computing in a format designed for a single-semester course. It will be accessible to learners from a range of disciplines, with an understanding of linear algebra being the primary prerequisite. The textbook introduces central concepts such as quantum mechanics, the quantum circuit model, and quantum algorithms, and covers advanced subjects such as the surface code and topological quantum computation. These topics are essential for understanding the role of symmetries in error correction and the stability of quantum architectures, which situate quantum computation within the wider realm of theoretical physics. Graphical representations and exercises are included throughout the book and optional expanded materials are summarized within boxed 'Remarks'. Lecture notes have been made freely available for download from the textbook's webpage, with instructors having additional online access to selected exercise solutions.
Quantum computing is an emerging field with growing implications across science and industry, making early educational exposure increasingly important. This paper examines how quantum computing concepts can be introduced into high-school STEM curricula within existing structures to enhance foundational learning in mathematics, computer science, and physics. We outline a modular integration strategy introducing key quantum ideas into standard courses, leveraging open-source educational resources to ensure global accessibility. Emphasis is placed on educational opportunity and equity: the approach is designed to be inclusive and to bridge current curricular gaps so that students worldwide can develop basic quantum literacy. Our analysis demonstrates that integrating quantum topics at the secondary level is feasible and can enrich STEM learning.