Master of Science Communication

Master of Science Communication

The Australian National University

Master of Science Communication

The Master of Science Communication is a postgraduate coursework program in Science Communication with a significant research project. Taught by some of Australia’s leading science communicators, the program combines theoretical and practical aspects of science communication, and provides deep networking connections with some of Australia and the world’s leading science and science communication organisations.

The program is ideal for people interested in becoming professional science communicators, managers of science communication programs, or for people interested in gaining skills to better communicate their own science. Many graduates have found careers in scientific organisations, science-oriented government departments, university departments, businesses and in traditional and new media.

University/Institution

The Australian National University, The Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science

Degree

Master of Science Communication (MSciComm)

Aims of the Study Program

Upon successful completion, students will have the skills and knowledge to

Demonstrate mastery of the theoretical knowledge underpinning science communication practice
Identify, apply and evaluate science communication strategies for diverse audiences, using a range of means, media, and technologies.
Appraise and reflect upon the interaction of interests, contexts and people shaping science, including the social and ethical responsibilities of science and society in the modern world
Develop appropriate qualitative and quantitative research tools and strategies to investigate, justify and interpret science communication theories, methods and conclusions

Topics/Content

Students in the program investigate a range of theoretical and practical aspects of science communication, developing the skills to understand the relationships between science and the end users of science, and tools to be able to influence that relationship for the better.

Curriculum

The Master of Science Communication requires the completion of 96 units, which must consist of:

1) 24 units from completion of the following compulsory courses:

  • Master of Science Communication Research Project
  • Communicating Science with the Public

2) A minimum of 24 units from the completion of further 6000- and 8000-level courses from the subject area SCOM Science Communication, including:

  • Science in Popular Fiction
  • Science in the Media
  • Cross Cultural Perspectives in Science Communication
  • Science Dialogue, Theory and Practice
  • Science Communication Internship
  • Making Modern Science
  • Science Events for Public Engagement
  • Science and Public Policy
  • Speaking of Science
  • Science Communication and the Web
  • Science, Risk and Ethics
  • Strategies in Science Communicaiton.

3) A maximum of 24 units from completion of further courses offered by the Australian National University.

Credit is available for prior learning.

Time to complete

2 years full time, though credit of up to 1 year is available for prior learning.

Start of studies

February or July

Admission

Requirements for admission

A Bachelor degree or international equivalent with a minimum GPA of 5/7 in a cognate area.  A cognate area consists of 8 courses.  

All applicants must meet the University’s English Language Admission Requirements for Students.
Applicants with a Bachelor Degree or Graduate Certificate in a cognate discipline may be eligible for 24 units (one semester) of credit. 
Applicants with a Graduate Diploma or Honours in a cognate discipline may be eligible for 48 units (one year) of credit.

Target Group/Students

Those who want to work closely with science as science communicators, or scientists who want to enhance their communication skills.

Mode of admission

Visit this website.

Deadlines for application

Two months prior to the intake.

Further Information

Visit this website.

Contact

Scicomm.gradprog@anu.edu.au