Science Communication - MSc/Postgraduate Diploma

You will study the following two modules:

• Science and Society - Provides a theoretical perspective on the public understanding of science movement, transitions to public engagement, and formal and informal learning.
• Science, the Public and Media - Explores debates about the role of the media in society and opportunities for science communication, such as in science centres and museums.

You then choose two from these three modules:

• Science on Air and on Screen - Build your radio, TV and digital skills by critically exploring the role of broadcast media in the communication of science. You'll also make an 'as live' radio magazine programme about science and a short film.
• Science in Public Spaces - Develop your own science communication initiative in this hands-on module from developing a creative concept, to seeking funding, and managing and evaluating a project. You'll explore a range of innovative approaches from sci-art, to museums, festivals to theatre.
• Writing Science - Improve your journalistic and other writing styles, including writing for news media, public relations and educational purposes, with a view to developing a portfolio, as well as working on a magazine project.

You then undertake your project. This is your opportunity to explore a specific aspect of science communication in depth, independently, but with tutor support. You can apply to carry out your project with an external organisation.

Find out more about past projects by MSc Science Communication students.

Please also note this structure is for the full-time course delivery only. For part-time delivery, the same modules will be studied. However, the structure will differ.

The University continually enhances our offer by responding to feedback from our students and other stakeholders, ensuring the curriculum is kept up to date and our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need for the real world. This may result in changes to the course. If changes to your course are approved, we will inform you.

Unlike most Master's courses in this area, the MSc Science Communication addresses the needs of working students. There are short, intensive teaching blocks of three to five days, and you can expect to attend three teaching sessions for each 30 credit module.

If you study this programme part-time, you'll take two 30 credit modules each for two academic years. It's possible to complete the part-time course in two years by finishing your project during the summer of the second year, or you may prefer to take a third year. Full-time students take four taught modules and complete the project in 14 months.

Group sessions are supplemented by directed and independent study, email discussions, tutorials and mentoring.

12 - 18 months full-time or 30 - 42 months part-time.

You'll attend three teaching blocks for each 30 credit course module. Teaching blocks are typically three days long, Thursday - Saturday.

The modules are assessed in a variety of ways, to reflect the theoretical concepts, knowledge and practical skills you'll develop. For example, through portfolios, reports and oral presentations all of which you can use to attract prospective employers. The ability to evaluate your own work and others' is critical to success in the workplace, and several assessments are designed to help you acquire these skills.

For more details see our full glossary of assessment terms.