At the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) we bring quantum science beyond the lab — sharing ideas, inspiring curiosity, and connecting with people of all ages. Our outreach programs help build a world that understands and embraces quantum technology.
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Explore Quantum 101 to learn about the basic principles of quantum and see how quantum science is applied in technologies today.
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Learn about the latest in quantum outreach news at IQC .
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Join us at our next quantum outreach event .
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Bring quantum to your community event by booking the travelling QUANTUM: The Pop-Up Exhibition .
Workshops and programs
High school students
Discover how mathematics, physics, computer science, and engineering converge in one of today’s most exciting fields: quantum information science.
The Quantum School for Young Students (QSYS) is a unique nine-day enrichment program designed for high school students. Combining expert lectures, group discussions, problem-solving, mentoring, and networking opportunities, QSYS immerses students in the cutting-edge world of quantum research.
Previously known as the Quantum Cryptography School for Young Students (QCSYS), this program connects participants with world-leading quantum researchers and offers an unparalleled exploration of this groundbreaking field.
Undergraduate students
IQC’s undergraduate programs give students the chance to explore quantum science through hands-on learning and research.
The Undergraduate School on Experimental Quantum Information Processing (USEQIP) offers two weeks of lectures, experiments and expert engagement, while the Undergraduate Research Awards provide seminars, talks and projects with IQC faculty.
These opportunities prepare students for graduate studies and future careers in quantum information science.
High school teachers
Quantum for Educators (QEd) is a workshop for Canadian and international high school science and technology teachers that launched in the fall of 2015. Participants will attend lectures and engage in hands-on activities focused on the integration of quantum technology applications and concepts into the current teaching curriculum.
IQC's scientific outreach team offers on-site and virtual educational workshops to introduce high school students to basic quantum concepts. Complete the Outreach Request Form and bring quantum to your classroom.
QUANTUM: The Exhibition
Measuring approximately 4,000 square feet, QUANTUM:The Exhibition was the first-ever showcase of quantum information science and technology, created by the Institute for Quantum Computing at the University of Waterloo as part of Innovation 150 in 2017.
This bilingual (English and French), accessible exhibition uses interactive activities, games and videos to explore core quantum concepts, from superposition to entanglement and how these principles are shaping revolutionary technologies of the 21st century.
Quantum:The Exhibition has been retired. If you are interested in bringing quantum to your community, contact iqc-outreach@uwaterloo.ca about it’s successor, Quantum: the Pop-Up Exhibition.
Fuel your curiosity for quantum science with QUANTUM: The Pop-Up Exhibition, now available for ongoing public viewing at THEMUSEUM until December 7, 2025.
Join us at our next event
Explore quantum information science hands-on at a world-class institute.
Join hundreds of high-school students to explore the quantum future!
Join hundreds of high-school students to explore the quantum future!
Latest news from IQC
Quantum tour makes Waterloo their first North American stop
A world-travelling quantum device is making its only North American stop at IQC.