2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Quantum computing is an emerging paradigm with the potential to transform numerous application areas by addressing problems considered intractable in the classical domain. However, its integration into cyberspace introduces significant security and privacy challenges. The exponential rise in cyber-attacks, further complicated by quantum capabilities, poses serious risks to financial systems and national security. In response, ensuring a secure cyberspace has been recognized as one of the National Academy of Engineering's (NAE) Grand Challenges. Quantum computing introduces both new vulnerabilities and opportunities for addressing cybersecurity challenges, necessitating awareness among researchers and developers, as highlighted by a recent workshop[1] hosted by the Pittsburgh Quantum Institute, supported by the National Science Foundation and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. The scope of quantum threats extends beyond traditional software, operating system, and network vulnerabilities, necessitating a shift in cybersecurity education. Current undergraduate and graduate cybersecurity curricula often rely on didactic teaching methods, lacking student-centered, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students effectively for real-world challenges. There is an urgent need to equip the workforce with a comprehensive understanding of both classical and quantum threat spaces, alongside state-of-the-art defense mechanisms. Such understanding is best developed through experiential education, where students actively engage with hardware, software, and network policies. Unfortunately, existing cybersecurity curricula fail to provide this depth of learning and often do not address the emerging challenges related to quantum security.

In this work, we present implementation and evaluation of a novel quantum computing curriculum that addresses the growing need for quantum education in CS and STEM fields, with a specific focus on security. The course, EE597: Introduction to Hardware Security, integrates hands-on quantum security learning experiences, combining simulations and cloud-based access to quantum hardware with classical security concepts, aiming to enhance students' understanding of quantum and cybersecurity issues. This innovative curriculum bridges theoretical concepts with practical, industry-relevant skills in an emerging technological field, providing a successful model for quantum computing education in STEM programs. Future offerings will target undergraduate students. The full paper will provide a comprehensive analysis of the curriculum and its effectiveness. For evaluation we used a mixed-methods approach, employing pre- and post-surveys to assess student learning outcomes and attitudes. Quantitative data was collected through Likert-scale questions, while qualitative insights were gathered from open-ended responses. The assessment measured changes in students' knowledge of quantum computing and cybersecurity, their understanding of related issues, and their interest in pursuing careers in these fields. Results indicated significant positive outcomes: students reported high levels of goal achievement in understanding hardware security and quantum computing. The course structure, including weekly quizzes and hands-on activities, was particularly effective in enhancing learning. Quantitative feedback showed strong agreement (mean scores ranging from 3.33 to 3.83 on a 4-point scale) regarding the course's value, organization, and the effectiveness of remote instruction. Furthermore, students expressed increased interest in pursuing careers in quantum computing and cybersecurity (M=3.67) and recognized the importance of these skills for their future goals (M=3.5). In addition to meeting their primary learning objectives, students reported several unexpected positive outcomes, such as gaining insights into industry-standard security measures and securing related internships.

[1]https://www.pqi.org/quantum-research/quantum-cybersecurity, 2023