Quantum physics: fundamentals and applications (SM380) will teach you the core concepts of quantum physics, including:
This module focuses on problem-solving, the ability to reason clearly, and the ability to discuss complex ideas. It will enable you to confidently use the fundamental concepts and mathematical formalism to solve problems relating to simple quantum systems.
You’ll have a unique opportunity to carry out experiments on entanglement, developing distinctive and innovative skills and an understanding of qubits and quantum logic operations – the building blocks of quantum computing.
You’ll learn to tackle problems relating to more complex quantum systems by using approximations and computational approaches.
Finally, you will see how quantum mechanical methods are used to understand the behaviour of matter, from the scale of nuclei and atoms to molecules and lattices.
By the end of your study, you’ll be able to critically discuss fundamental concepts in quantum mechanics (superposition and entanglement), basing the arguments on your experimental data.
You will learn:
You’ll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module.
They’ll help by:
Online tutorials run throughout the module. While they’re not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate. Where possible, we’ll make recordings available.
Course work includes:
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
Additionally, the website includes:
We also provide physical:
You can study this module on its own or use the credits you gain towards an Open University qualification.
SM380 is a compulsory module in our:
SM380 is an option module in our:
Quantum physics: fundamentals and applications (SM380) starts once a year – in October.
It will next start in October 2026.
We expect it to start for the last time in October 2029.
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the academic regulations, which are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
There are no formal entry requirements for this module.
At The Open University, we believe education should be open to all, so we provide high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, you’ll need appropriate knowledge of mathematics and physics obtained through:
Are you ready for SM380?
We recommend that you’ve completed:
The parts relating to matrices and ordinary and partial differential equations are especially relevant.
Plus:
The parts relating to classical and quantum mechanics are especially relevant.
The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone, and this Accessibility Statement outlines what studying SM380 involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our Disability support website.
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There may be extra costs on top of the tuition fee, such as set books, a computer and internet access.
If your income is not more than £25,000 or you receive a qualifying benefit, you might be eligible for help with some of these costs after your module has started.
There may be extra costs on top of the tuition fee, such as set books, a computer and internet access.
If your personal income is £25,000 or less, or you’re on certain benefits, you could qualify for a grant and OU top-up funding to cover 100% of your course fees. Apply online at the same time as you register on your module.
For more information on how to apply, visit our Part-Time Fee Grants for students in Scotland page.
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Read more about Open University Student Budget Accounts (OUSBA).
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We know that sometimes you may want to combine payment options. For example, you may wish to pay part of your tuition fee with a debit card and pay the remainder in instalments through an Open University Student Budget Account (OUSBA).
We know that sometimes you may want to combine payment options. For example, you may get support from your employer to pay part of your tuition fee and pay the remainder by credit or debit card.
For more information about combining payment options, contact an adviser.
Please note: your permanent address/domicile will affect your fee status and, therefore, the fees you are charged and any financial support available to you. The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2026. Fees typically increase annually. For further information about the University's fee policy, visit our Fee Rules.
