Approximation Methods

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The Approximation Methods program is a non-degree course for students who want to learn quantum mechanics methods. It's taught in English and lasts several weeks. The main advantage is that students can also take it for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.

The curriculum covers time-independent perturbation theory, time-dependent perturbation theory, tight binding method, variational method, and finite basis set. Students develop skills in using time-dependent perturbation theory to obtain corrections to energies and wavefunctions, and in using tight binding method, variational method, and finite basis set to solve quantum mechanics problems. Hands-on components include working on specific examples to clearly show how each method works.

After completing this program, students can pursue careers as Quantum Mechanics Researchers, Theoretical Physicists, Electrical Engineers, or Materials Scientists. They can work in industries such as technology, energy, or aerospace, and for employers like research institutions, universities, or private companies like IBM or Google.