Program Overview
The Master of Science Communication program empowers individuals to bridge the gap between the scientific community and the public. Combining science knowledge with communication skills, the program prepares students for roles in science writing, outreach, and public engagement across various sectors such as museums, universities, and government organizations.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science Communication is a postgraduate degree designed for individuals who are creative, passionate about science, and interested in working with people.
Outline:
The Master of Science Communication is a 1.5-2 year full-time program. The course structure includes:
- Conversion Units (up to 24 points): Required for students without prior tertiary studies in science communication, including a minor in Science Communication, or equivalent. These units cover topics like Ethical Conduct and Communication of Science, Science Presentations, Science Writing, and Exhibitions and Interpretation.
- Core Units (36 points): All students must complete these units, which cover topics like Global Media and Cross-cultural Communication, The Politics of Public Policy, Professional Skills in Science, Synthesising Research Literature: Reviewing, Analysing, and Reporting, Citizen Science, and Science and Society.
- Core Unit (6 points): Students must choose one unit from this group, which includes Science Practicum and McCusker Centre for Citizenship Internship.
- Option Units (30 points): For students pursuing a coursework and dissertation track, all units in this group are required. These units cover Science Communication Dissertation Parts 1-4 and Social Sciences Research Skills. For students pursuing a coursework-only track, they must choose units totaling 30 points from a list of options, including units from various disciplines like Arts, Communication, Education, Politics, Public Health, and Science Communication.
Careers:
Graduates of the Master of Science Communication program are prepared for communication and engagement roles in various sectors, including:
- Museums
- Zoos
- Government organizations
- Universities
- Media
- Charities
- Research groups
- Resource management It combines skills in written and verbal communication with scientific knowledge. Students gain experience in new media, written, oral, and visual presentations, science performance, and working with industry experts. The program also teaches students to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, ranging from children to scientists.
The University of Western Australia
Overview:
The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a leading research-intensive university located in Perth, Western Australia. It is renowned for its high-quality teaching, strong research output, and commitment to graduate employability. UWA is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities globally and is the number one university in Western Australia for graduate employability.
Services Offered:
UWA offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic support:
Tutoring, workshops, and study skills resources.Career services:
Career counselling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.Student wellbeing:
Mental health support, counselling, and health services.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options.Sports and fitness:
Access to state-of-the-art facilities and a variety of sports clubs.Clubs and societies:
A vibrant student community with numerous clubs and societies catering to diverse interests.Study abroad and exchange:
Opportunities to study at universities around the world.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UWA provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience for its students. The university boasts a beautiful campus with modern facilities, green spaces, and a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:
Social events:
Concerts, festivals, and other social gatherings.Sporting events:
Supporting the university's sports teams.Volunteer opportunities:
Contributing to the local community.Cultural events:
Art exhibitions, theatre performances, and music concerts.Key Reasons to Study There:
World-class education:
UWA offers a high-quality education with a focus on research and innovation.Excellent employability:
Graduates from UWA are highly sought after by employers.Vibrant campus life:
A diverse and engaging student community with numerous opportunities for personal and professional development.Beautiful campus:
A picturesque campus with modern facilities and green spaces.Strong research focus:
UWA is a leading research university with a strong commitment to innovation.Academic Programs:
UWA offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
History, Literature, Philosophy, Languages, and more.Science and Engineering:
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, and more.Business and Economics:
Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Economics, and more.Health Sciences:
Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy, and more.Law:
Juris Doctor, Bachelor of Laws, and other law programs.Other:
UWA is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The university has a strong focus on Indigenous education and research, and offers a range of programs and support services for Indigenous students. UWA also has a strong international presence, with students from over 100 countries studying at the university.
Entry Requirements:
To be considered for admission to this course an applicant must have—(a) a Bachelor's degree, or an equivalent qualification, as recognised by UWA; and(b) the equivalent of a UWA weighted average mark of at least 50 per cent;
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0.
