HACKER Q&A
📣 flave

Should I study an MsC in Quantum Technology?


I know it's ultimately a complex personal choice but I was wondering if anyone had any advice or knowledge on this topic.

Background: I'm 29, had one successful start up behind me. Financially safe enough to do a masters but not to 'retire'. Degree in physics and philosophy from decent university. Studied some quantum there. This is all in the UK and the masters would cost around 10-15k sterling. My earning potential is anywhere from 40k to 90k depending on what I can land.

Current situation: I've just had my most recent business 'fail' and I'm very conscious that I don't have any kind of trade or specialisation. I'm not nearly as employable as the developers that worked on my team. I have a long career in front of me and I'm just quite conscious of that. I enjoyed my degree but did find it hard.

Why Quantum Tech? Two reasons: one, I have a degree in physics so can get on the course and two, I understand that it's a technology which is going to come to prominence in the coming two decades. I figure it would be good to be on that train. Also, it is dead interesting.

I suppose my key questions are

1. Is Quantum Computing really 'going somewhere'?

2. Do they need to hire people who have masters in quantum technology? Will I need a PhD?

3. Do you have any other suggestions for what a decently successful non developer could do after a start up?

4. What is quantum computing being applied to? If anything.

Thanks


  👤 sampo Accepted Answer ✓
As a total outsider, I think 2021 is too early for people without a higher academic credential (PhD + postdoc) to bet on the quantum tech. I don't think there is that much jobs outside of academia, and inside it's highly competitive.