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.
