Quantum computing with Python and Qiskit

Set up Python and Qiskit locally, write your first quantum circuits, and run them on a simulator and then real hardware.

Stewart SmithCreative technologist
·1 January 2026

5 lessons · 49 min

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What you'll learn

This course sets up a real quantum computing toolchain on your own machine. You install Python, UV, and Qiskit, learn the Python you need, then build and run your first circuits, starting on a cloud simulator and moving to real quantum hardware. Qiskit is the through-line, so the skills carry across quantum providers.

  • How to set up a local Python, UV, and Qiskit toolchain
  • The Python basics that quantum programs are written with
  • How to build and run a Qiskit circuit on a cloud simulator
  • How to run your first circuit on real quantum hardware

Course contents

  1. 01Setup Python on your machineThis guide will walk you through downloading, installing, and enjoying Python via the UV package installer and project manager.
  2. 02Learn Python language basicsPython has become the de facto programming language of quantum computing. This guide highlights some basic Python commands and logic; foundational elements to build from.
  3. 03Setup IBM’s Qiskit SDKThis guide details how to install IBM’s Qiskit quantum computing packages for Python, using the UV package manager.
  4. 04Setup and simulate with IonQCreate and leverage a free IonQ account to run an example quantum circuit on IonQ’s cloud simulator. Builds upon our previous tutorials for installing Python via UV, and installing IBM’s Qiskit SDK.
  5. 05Run circuits on IonQ’s quantum hardwareRun a quantum circuit on IonQ’s quantum hardware and receive the results asynchronously. Builds upon our previous tutorials for executing quantum circuits on IonQ’s cloud simulator, and installing Python via UV.
Your instructor
Stewart Smith · Creative technologist

Stewart Smith is an award-winning creative technologist, artist, writer, and speaker. He’s led innovation teams across ten time zones, and wields wisdom accrued from his years with Google, Amazon, and Unity. Educated as a graphic designer (MFA, Yale University), his work has spanned quantum computing, artificial intelligence, spatial computing, aerospace, and fine art.

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