A Lightweight Plug-in Module for Introducing Post-Quantum Cryptography in Higher Education: An Experience Report

Abstract

Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is increasingly important for computing education, yet integrating it into existing curricula is challenging because it draws on programming, mathematics, cryptography, and quantum concepts. This experience report describes a one-week lightweight PQC plug-in module embedded in an undergraduate cybersecurity course and a graduate software engineering course. The module introduces core PQC concepts, quantum threats to current cryptographic systems, and PQC migration as a secure software engineering concern without requiring a standalone course. We report four pilot deployments: two undergraduate and two graduate course offerings. At each level, one offering used faculty-led lectures (FLL), while the other used hybrid lectures (HL) combining student-led seminars with faculty-led lectures. Both formats included hands-on factorization activities and gamified formative assessment. Based on Kahoot quiz scores and anonymous student feedback, students generally viewed the module positively. The graduate HL cohort achieved a higher mean Kahoot score than the graduate FLL cohort; no other differences in Kahoot scores or closed-ended feedback measures were statistically significant. Given the short duration, small samples, and non-randomized settings, we interpret these results as exploratory. We emphasize practical lessons, design trade-offs, and reusable instructional materials for educators introducing PQC into existing courses. This work contributes an adaptable teaching model and open educational resources for broadening PQC awareness and supporting curriculum development in quantum-safe cybersecurity and software engineering.

11 pages, 4 figures, accepted by The Fifth Annual Quantum Science and Engineering Education Conference (QSEEC26) at IEEE Quantum Week 2026