Cryptography and Quantum Information

Cryptography and Quantum Information

Overview

This microcredential offers a practical and conceptual introduction to the fundamentals of quantum information, covering essential protocols for manipulating quantum states, such as quantum teleportation and superdense coding. Students will understand the principles and security of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) against threats arising from quantum computing and will be able to assess the importance of Quantum Error Correction, understanding the operation of key algorithms—including Shor's code—to preserve information integrity in noisy quantum channels.

Goals

  • Mastering basic quantum information protocols that demonstrate advanced manipulation of quantum states, such as quantum teleportation and superdense coding.
  • Understand the principles of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), its physical basis, and the security it offers against quantum computing attacks.
  • Evaluate the need for Quantum Error Correction and understand the operation of fundamental algorithms (such as Shor code) to ensure information integrity in a noisy quantum channel.

Access requirements

If you do not hold a bachelor's degree, students enrolled in undergraduate or master's degree programs will be accepted, preferably those in the fields of Engineering and Architecture and Science, as these provide the necessary technical and analytical foundation for understanding the course content. Undergraduate degrees at the University of La Laguna considered particularly relevant include:

Engineering and Architecture Branch

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering
  • Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Electronics and Automation Engineering
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering
  • Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Chemical Engineering
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering
  • Degree in Technical Architecture
  • Bachelor's Degree in Marine Technologies
  • Degree in Nautical Studies and Maritime Transport

Branch of Sciences

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics
  • Bachelor's Degree in Physics
  • Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry
  • Bachelor's Degree in Biology
  • Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Sciences

Students and graduates from other fields of study, such as Social Sciences and Law, Health Sciences, or Arts and Humanities, may also apply, provided they demonstrate interest or experience in areas related to technology, data analysis, programming, or digital innovation.

Academic program

Contents

1. Simple protocols and algorithms: Teleportation, Superdense Coding and a brief mention of Shor and Grover.

2. QKD (Quantum Key Distribution): BB84, Six-State, E91, B92, BBM92, SARG04 protocols.

3. Error Correction Algorithms: Basic quantum error correction algorithms, such as Shor's. The theoretical content will be developed during the practical sessions using IBM's quantum simulator: Qiskit. A basic understanding of Python is required to use this library.

Methodology and activities

Regarding the way to organize the teaching to achieve the objectives set out in the micro-credential, the organizational modality summarized below will be followed:

  • Lectures/expository method: presentation or explanation by the teaching staff.
  • Practical classes: activities supervised by the teaching staff in the classroom, laboratories, clinics.
  • Individual work: individual preparation of assignments/projects/reports, portfolio, …
  • Personal study: preparation for tests, exams, etc.
  • Assessment: written tests, oral tests, practical tests, …
  • Tutoring: instruction period in which teachers and students interact with the aim of reviewing and discussing materials and topics presented in class.

Evaluation criteria

  • Objective tests (multiple choice): This will consist of a 20-question online exam lasting 2 hours. The exam will assess the knowledge acquired by students throughout the course, including theoretical concepts and their understanding of practical applications.
  • Short answer tests: a type of objective test in which students do not elaborate on their answers and must respond to the specific information requested.
  • Oral tests: students must apply the knowledge acquired to develop oral answers to the exercises or questions posed by the teachers.
  • Oral presentation and defense of topics, assignments, etc.: oral presentation on a topic related to the micro-credential content or on the results of an assignment, exercise, or project, followed by discussion with the teaching staff. This can be done individually or in a group.

General information

Credits: 2 ECTS

Duration: 26/12/2025-16/01/2026

Teaching modality: In person/On-line/Mixed

Location: On-line

Registration

More information

Flexibility

Short courses available in various formats (in-person, online, or hybrid). Ideal for learning without interrupting your professional life.

Employability

Content created and delivered by professionals and experts in the field, designed for immediate application.

Certification

Endorsed by the University of La Laguna. You will receive an official ECTS certificate, valid in the European Higher Education Area.

Teaching staff

Tuition

Registration link

Registration fee with or without discount

50€

Price per credit €25

These microcredentials will be funded by the Cybersecurity Chair of the University of La Laguna C065/23, financed by the National Cybersecurity Institute (INCIBE) and funds from the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan – Next Generation EU funds.

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