Science Communication, Graduat - University of W

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Medium of studying

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Program Facts

Program Details

Degree

Courses

Major

Science Communication

Area of study

Natural Science

Course Language

English

About Program

Program Overview

The Graduate/Professional Certificate in Science Communication at UW-Madison equips students with the skills to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences. The program offers a combination of core courses and approved electives, providing students with a foundation in communication theory, research, and practical applications. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, industry, non-profit organizations, and other fields where effective science communication is crucial.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Graduate/Professional Certificate in Science Communication is offered by the Department of Life Sciences Communication (LSC) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It is designed to complement existing graduate coursework for students enrolled in any graduate or professional program at UW-Madison. The certificate is suitable for students in physical sciences, biological sciences, engineering fields, and professional degree programs (law, veterinary medicine, etc.). The certificate program aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts across diverse audiences, including underrepresented or vulnerable groups. Graduates will be proficient in selecting and utilizing appropriate theories, methodologies, tools, and practices for science communication. They will also gain competence in gathering relevant evidence to address scientific challenges faced by industry, universities, and non-profit organizations, and will be able to discuss the ethical, legal, and social implications of science.

Outline:

The certificate program consists of 10 total credits, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher in all LSC courses. Courses must be at the 300 level or above and must have the graduate attribute to count towards the minimum graduate coursework (50%) rule.

Core Courses (4 credits):

LSC 700 Colloquium in Life Sciences Communication (1 credit)
LSC 720 Introduction to Communication Theory and Research (3 credits) or LSC 625 Risk Communication or LSC/ENVIR ST/JOURN 823 Science and Environment Communication or LSC 902 Public Opinion of Life Science Issues

Approved Electives (6 credits):

Students select two approved electives from the following list:

LSC 340 Misinformation, Fake News, and Correcting False Beliefs about Science
LSC 350 Visualizing Science and Technology
LSC 430 Communicating Science with Narrative
LSC 432 Social Media for the Life Sciences
LSC 435 Brand Strategy for the Sciences
LSC 440 Digital Media and Science Communication
LSC 450 Documentary Photography for the Sciences
LSC 460 Social Media Analytics
LSC 532 Web Design for the Sciences
LSC 560 Scientific Writing
LSC 561 Writing Science for the Public
LSC 625 Risk Communication
LSC 660 Data Analysis in Communications Research
LSC/ENVIR ST/JOURN 823 Science and Environment Communication
LSC 875 Special Topics

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members, including professors and instructors in the Department of Life Sciences Communication. The teaching methods may include lectures, discussions, workshops, and project-based learning.

Careers:

The Graduate/Professional Certificate in Science Communication prepares students for careers in various fields where effective science communication is essential. Graduates may pursue roles in academia, industry, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and science journalism. The certificate can also enhance career prospects for professionals in law, medicine, and other fields who need to communicate scientific concepts effectively.

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