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Quantum Forge (PHYS 4700 / ECEN 4700) is aÌýtwo-semester, six-credit hour capstone sequence (three credit hours per semester)Ìýfor junior and senior level physics and engineering students. Working in small project teams sponsored by industry partners from Colorado's quantum tech sector, you'll spend the full academic year contributing to a real quantum information science and technology project.

The course fulfills the upper-division research requirement for physics and engineering physics majors and is designed for students planning to enter the workforce directly after graduation rather than continue to graduate study.

What Makes Quantum Forge Different

Quantum Forge is an experiential hands-on project course in contrast to traditional lab courses. Rather than following prescribed lab procedures or working in isolation on an independent project, you will operate in a team environment that mirrors what you would encounter in an internship or entry-level role at a quantum tech company. Alongside your project work, you will engage with skill- and concept-focused modules designed to build the technical and professional skills to be successful in the quantum industry.

Over the course of the year, you can expect to:

• Build hands-on technical proficiency in skills directly relevant to the QIS industry; examples include machining, fabrication, soldering, circuitry, CAD, programming, and hardware testing.
• Deepen your understanding of core QIS concepts, such as entanglement, coherence, and others, in the context of real application rather than coursework abstraction.
• Develop professional skills that are often underdeveloped in STEM programs: project management, stakeholder communication, and team conflict resolution.
• Learn how industry projects are actually structured: logic models, timelines, design reviews, and iterative planning.
• Engage directly with quantum industry professionals, including your project sponsor and QIS leaders from the Front Range area.
• Build professional materials — résumé, portfolio, employer engagement skills — that will serve you at graduation and beyond.

Applying to Quantum Forge

Enrollment requires an application to ensure the course is a strong match for your interests and goals. This course is designed for students who can enroll in both the Fall and Spring semesters and plan to enter the workforce directly after graduation. Questions can be directed to the course instructor or your academic advisor.

Industry Partnerships

Quantum Forge is built on collaboration with industry sponsors who provide real project challenges for student teams. If your company is interested in sponsoring a project, please reach out to Heather Lewandowski.