As New Mexico makes significant investments to establish itself as a leader in quantum technology, The University of New Mexico is expanding its academic efforts to prepare students for the opportunities emerging alongside this growing industry and new era of discovery.
UNM will build on its existing programs in quantum information science and engineering (QISE), with a focus on strengthening academic pathways, aligning curriculum with emerging workforce needs, expanding faculty capacity, and connecting students with research and career opportunities.
"New Mexico is making a significant investment in its future, and UNM has an important responsibility in that work," said Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Barbara Rodríguez. "For us, this is about preparing our students for opportunities that are taking shape in our state and building on the tremendous expertise that already exists across our University."
UNM already has a strong academic foundation in QISE. Undergraduate and graduate courses are offered across four departments; graduate students can pursue quantum concentrations within four degree programs; and UNM offers a graduate certificate in Quantum Science and Technology that is open to students from multiple graduate programs.
Building on this foundation, UNM will review existing curriculum, identify opportunities to integrate quantum concepts and skills across courses and programs, evaluate the need for new academic offerings, and strengthen pathways connecting students to coursework, research experiences and careers.
Faculty will be central to the effort. UNM already has significant expertise related to quantum science and technology across multiple disciplines, including 19 faculty fellows in the Quantum New Mexico Institute. The University will invest in additional faculty hiring to add teaching and research capacity, complement existing expertise, and support the continued development of quantum education and research at UNM.
Rodríguez emphasized that the opportunity extends well beyond traditional quantum disciplines.
"The strength of UNM is the breadth of our academic community," Rodríguez said. "Quantum may begin with science and technology, but its impact reaches much further. There are important questions involving business, education, ethics, policy, communication, workforce development, health and society. A comprehensive research university like UNM brings those perspectives together."
The expansion of UNM's academic offerings complements the University's growing quantum research and infrastructure and will help connect education, research, and workforce development as New Mexico's quantum ecosystem grows.
"Our goal is to build on what UNM already does well, create meaningful connections across disciplines and make sure our students are prepared for the opportunities ahead," Rodríguez said.
