Physics + Quantum Computing research question (incoming with lot of DE credit)
Hello! I’m an incoming freshman admitted to Physics. I applied for CCS Physics but didn’t get in, so I’m coming in through the L&S major.
I have a lot of dual enrollment credit that transfers (Multivariable Calc, Linear Algebra, Diff Eq, Discrete math, Intro Mechanics, E&M) so I’d be finishing lower-div requirements right off the bat. I want to do a PhD in physics so that’s where my following questions are coming from:
How accessible is quantum computing/information research for undergrads outside of CCS? I know UCSB has amazing faculty in this area but I’ve heard CCS students tend to get priority for research spots and/or they’re pretty unreachable for undergrads. For an L&S Physics major with strong math prep, how realistic is it to get into a quantum adjacent lab by sophomore/junior year?
I’m weighing UCSB against UMD, which is looking very strong for me. They have a quantum information minor, an easy path to a CS minor, proximity to NIST/IonQ, and several quantum-adjacent professors who take on undergrads. What factors should I be considering when making this choice?
For anyone who’s done quantum research here as an undergrad (or any physics research really), how did you get your position and what was the experience like? I’d really love to hear from y’all!
Thank you so much!