Waterloo is one of the select few quantum hotspots in North America. From research institutions to commercialization expertise, a truly world-class quantum ecosystem requires several interlocking elements. But it all starts with talent.
Within a 5km/3.1mi radius in Waterloo, there are 380+ researchers specializing in all sorts of quantum problems, as well as two globally celebrated quantum research institutions training students from the University of Waterloo (and attracting them from around the world).
For companies looking to set up a quantum team, the Waterloo region provides an end-to-end talent pipeline anchored by the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University and Conestoga College. Your company can find quantum theorists, quantum hardware engineers, lab technologists and early-stage researchers in our community.
We’ve curated a list of local programs that matter most for quantum industry hiring.
Key Takeaways
- More than 380 researchers work on quantum problems in the Waterloo region, anchored by two globally recognized quantum research institutions (Perimeter Institute and the Institute for Quantum Computing)
- The University of Waterloo offers several quantum-specific graduate programs spanning physics, engineering, mathematics and chemistry
- Wilfrid Laurier University and Conestoga College round out the pipeline with practical quantum coursework and hands-on training in the software, hardware and engineering skills quantum companies need
University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo (UWaterloo), home to the Institute for Quantum Computing, generates a steady stream of quantum-ready talent in our region.
Undergraduate students in physics, computer science, engineering and mathematics at UWaterloo can take courses in quantum information, quantum theories, applied cryptography, quantum algorithms and more. Most of these students are enrolled in co-op, which allows them to work at labs, startups and scale-ups and gain hands-on experience as they complete their schooling.
While there are several relevant undergraduate degrees at the University of Waterloo, the school’s specialty is its array of quantum-specific graduate programs, where students can home in on complex problems:
- Combinatorics and Optimization (Graduate): This department is the first in the world of its kind, offering discrete mathematics and optimization expertise that underpins quantum algorithm design, cryptography and computational problem-solving
- Electrical and Computer Engineering – Quantum Information (Graduate): Pairs advanced engineering research with quantum information coursework, preparing graduates to design and build real-world quantum-enabled communications, sensing and computing systems
- Applied Mathematics – Quantum Information (Graduate): Grounded in North America’s only dedicated Faculty of Mathematics, this program builds the theoretical foundations behind quantum algorithms and information processing through advanced research and coursework
- Chemistry – Quantum Information (Graduate): Applies quantum information principles to chemistry research, preparing graduates for careers in the workforce or further study at the PhD level
- Physics – Quantum Information (Graduate, Thesis-Based): One of the largest physics graduate programs in Canada, offering a strong foundation in quantum information theory, applications and implementation with world-leading researchers at the Institute for Quantum Computing
- Physics – Quantum Information (Graduate, Course-Based): A 12-month, course-based program offering hands-on training in quantum hardware and simulation through dedicated lab courses in coherent control, quantum optics and superconductivity
Wilfrid Laurier University
With strong physics and computer science programs, Laurier complements the University of Waterloo’s offerings. Students learn about practical quantum computing and complete quantum-nano coursework, preparing them to step into quantum software, integration and device-adjacent roles.
- Physics (Undergraduate): Builds a strong foundation through courses on quantum mechanics and computing, which explore the design of quantum-based electronic, optical and computing devices
- Computer Science (Undergraduate): Offers direct quantum coursework in quantum computing (i.e. quantum algorithms, teleportation and software development), which introduces quantum information processing and algorithms using open-source frameworks
Conestoga College
Conestoga produces the practical talent that quantum companies need for labs, test systems, embedded control, software infrastructure and more. A top polytechnic institute in Canada, Conestoga is known for hands-on learning experiences that equip graduates with the skills they need to enter the workforce.
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (Undergraduate): Trains graduates in applied mathematics, algorithms and machine learning, skills transferable to the data analysis techniques used in quantum computing research
- Power Systems Engineering (Undergraduate): Focuses on electrical power systems, industrial automation and power electronics design, capabilities that support the specialized power delivery and control infrastructure needed to operate quantum computing hardware
- Mechanical Systems Engineering (Undergraduate): Covers mechanical, industrial and control engineering for complex automated systems, skills applicable to the precision mechanical and cooling systems required in quantum hardware environments
- Software Engineering Technology (Diploma): Builds hands-on software development skills across programming, databases and secure computing, giving graduates a technical foundation for writing classical software that supports quantum computing systems
- Technology Foundations (Certificate): Provides a grounding in math, physics and engineering technology fundamentals, preparing students to pursue further study in quantum-adjacent fields like electronics, computing or engineering