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Top 5 quantum computing certifications in 2025
Quantum computing is advancing quickly, and completing a certification boosts employability and helps to stay ahead of the curve.
Quantum computing uses the principles of quantum theory to perform calculations at incredibly high speeds by simultaneously processing information in different places. According to a study by McKinsey & Company, the quantum technology market is estimated to reach $106 billion by 2040.
Businesses value professionals with skills in this area as the quantum sector grows. A certification in quantum computing boosts employability by demonstrating a commitment to learning while keeping learners ahead of the curve.
According to an analysis by the Chicago Quantum Exchange, you do not need a high level of education to move into the quantum field. The study revealed that out of 5,000 quantum jobs posted by the QED-C and the Quantum Computing Report in 2022 and 2023, 55% required a bachelor's degree or less. This percentage demonstrates a real opportunity for adult learners or people wishing to shift careers. By acquiring a certification in quantum computing, learners can change the trajectory of their jobs without needing another university degree.
Based on extensive internet research, here are some of the top quantum certifications in 2025.
1. IBM Certified Associate Developer - Quantum Computation using Qiskit v0.2X
The IBM Certified Associate Developer—Quantum Computation using Qiskit v0.2X certification validates a developer's ability to use IBM's Qiskit framework for quantum computing. It is an online, self-paced course.
Prerequisites or recommended skills going in
Some familiarity with common circuits, working knowledge of quantum state measurement probabilities and creating, executing, and visualizing the results quantum of circuits using the online IBM Quantum Composer are recommended. Other recommended skills include the following:
- Understanding features of the Qiskit SDK.
- Working knowledge of Pauli matrices.
- Working knowledge of modeling quantum states.
This certification suits existing developers looking to work with IBM's quantum systems.
Objectives of the certification
The course focuses on quantum computation, circuits and qubits, and practical programming with Qiskit.
Duration: Self-paced
Cost: $200 (price per exam)
Find out more about the certification here.
2. Microsoft Azure Quantum Developer Certification
This certification is a self-paced online course and focuses on the basics of quantum computing, specifically using the Microsoft Q# programming language.
Prerequisites or recommended skills going in
This certification is suitable for beginners, but basic knowledge of the Azure ecosystem and linear algebra, as well as familiarity with Visual Studio Code is recommended.
Objectives of the certification
This course will explain the fundamentals of quantum computing and provide learners with an understanding and ability to identify the problems that can be solved with quantum algorithms. Those who complete the course will be able to:
- Build quantum programs using the Quantum Development Kit and Q#.
- Run Q# applications on actual hardware.
- Use Azure Quantum to estimate resources for quantum algorithms.
- Use the Azure Quantum cloud service.
Duration: Self-paced
Cost: Free
Learn more about the certification here.
3. Professional Certificate in Quantum Computing for Everyone by edX
This edX program, offered by the University of Chicago, introduces the basics of quantum computing and aims to cover its core principles. It is an online course, and the teaching is self-paced, offering flexibility to learners.
Prerequisites or recommended skills going in
This course is beginner-friendly but requires experience in programming and algebra.
Objectives of the certification
This course will teach the basic physics that enables quantum computing while focusing on the effect that quantum will have on businesses, governments and society. It enables learners to identify specific use cases where quantum can and can't be used to solve problems. By the end of the course, learners will be able to solve problems by combining one- and two-bit quantum operations and implementing quantum software.
Duration: 3 months
Cost: $358
Find out more about the certification here.
4. Quantum Computing Fundamentals by MIT xPro
This two-course program explores the business and technical implications of quantum computing and how to apply it to businesses. It is well suited to professionals who want to gain an understanding of these implications. The certification has an industry-forward approach; those who complete it will have a real-world understanding of quantum computing use cases.
Prerequisites or recommended skills going in
This course starts with the basics, but an understanding of vector and matrix multiplication and linear algebra is recommended.
Objectives of the certification
The course will begin with the fundamentals of quantum, and those who complete the program will be able to do the following:
- Assess business applications for quantum computation.
- Develop an understanding of engineering requirements for implementing quantum.
- Gain confidence with the mathematical descriptions of quantum states and operations.
- Recognize the technological requirements for running large algorithms.
- Understand the difference between quantum and classical computation.
- Understand the scientific limitations faced by quantum algorithms.
Duration: 4 weeks, 4-6 hours per week
Cost: $2,419
Learn more about the certification here.
5. Graduate Certificate in Quantum Computing
The Graduate Certificate in Quantum Computing program by the College of Computer, Mathematical and Natural Sciences is a 12-credit, in-person program based on the University of Maryland campus. It offers working professionals the opportunity to acquire hands-on training and advanced knowledge in quantum computing.
Prerequisites or recommended skills going in
Students applying for the graduate role must:
- Have a four-year baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or an equivalent international degree.
- Earned a 3.0 GPA across undergraduate and graduate coursework.
General knowledge of linear algebra, work experience in engineering, mathematics, and natural sciences, and proficiency in programming languages are required.
Objectives of the certification
The course will include modules on the following:
- Mathematics and methods of quantum computing.
- Physics of quantum devices.
- Principles of machine learning.
- Quantum computing architectures and algorithms.
Duration: One year
Cost: $4,146
Learn more about the certificate here.
Rosa Heaton is content manager for the Learning Content group at Informa TechTarget.
