Chicago State University (CSU) has formally launched the CSU Quantum Education, Science and Technology Center (CQuEST), an Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE)-authorized research and workforce hub located on Chicago’s South Side. The center unifies CSU’s quantum and semiconductor credentials under a single administrative framework, building on academic programs first authorized in December 2025.
CQuEST coordinates three stackable academic pathways: a minor in Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE), a QISE Certificate, and a Semiconductor Technology and Manufacturing Certificate. Operating as an educational founding partner of the nearby Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park (IQMP), CQuEST provides students with priority access to research facilities, paid internships via the NSF-funded Mic2ExL initiative, and direct workforce pipelines with national laboratories and industrial partners.
| [ CQuEST Center Program Architecture & Regional Integration ] | ||
|---|---|---|
| Academic Credentials | Research & Facility Partners | Community & K-12 Outreach |
| • QISE Certificate & Minor | • Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park (IQMP) | • Elevate 17 (Chicago Public Schools) |
| • Semiconductor Technology Certificate | • NSF Mic2ExL Paid Internship Program | • High School Summer Science Programs |
| • Dual-Enrollment Coursework | • Regional National Laboratories & Industry Partners | • K–12 Educator Quantum Workshops |
Led by Center Director Dr. Valerie Goss, CQuEST also extends beyond undergraduate degree programs to manage regional STEM engagement, including the Elevate 17 collaboration with Chicago Public Schools, K–12 educator training, and summer high school research immersions designed to broaden participation across the emerging Midwestern quantum ecosystem.
Review the announcement via the Citizen Newspaper Group here, and inspect university coverage at Chicago State University News here.
September 11, 2026
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