Master of Science Communication

(Program code 7614)

The Master of Science Communication takes one year to study full-time and usually another 6 months to complete the sub-thesis component, though the whole program can be done in one year.  It can also be studied part time over a few years.  The program is a HECS course so no upfront fees are payable for Australian residents.   

The program requires the completion of five courses (from a choice of six) - all of equal value and together assessed as 60% of the total program requirements; and a sub-thesis or a research project which consists of approximately 40% of the total program requirements.

The six courses combine theoretical and practical aspects of science communication. The program does not necessarily follow the published University calendar so candidates are required to be available throughout the whole academic year. Of the six courses, two are compulsory (SCOM8014 and SCOM8015), while three can be selected from the remaining four (SCOM8012, SCOM8016, SCOM6501, SCOM8027). The courses are as follows:

Communicating Science with the Public (SCOM8014) (Semester 1, 6 units, compulsory)

The aim of this course is to highlight the problems commonly encountered by those of the public who have not 'succeeded' in science or suffered from poor early experiences. The course content includes aspects of gender and multiculturalism; language in science and misconceptions; the use of analogies; gender inclusive science - what does it look like? Assessment is by portfolio, with a strong emphasis on a design component which will exemplify students' understanding of various aspects of communication.

Public Speaking and Acting Techniques (SCOM8015) (Semester 2, 6 units, compulsory)

This is a practical course given by a leading Australian science presenter which aims to develop public speaking skills. The emphasis is on presenting science to a general audience. A one day workshop on acting and personal presentation skills is also part of the course.

Design and Process for the World Wide Web (SCOM8012) (Semester 1, 6 units)

Throughout this course, students will develop an understanding of best practice principles with regard to visual communication methods and media. Through a series of theory sessions and hands-on tutorials, students will develop basic skills in visual design using industry standard tools and software. Students will also gain a sound understanding of the information needed to effectively communicate with professional suppliers of services within the graphic design industry, including web and print designers, and commercial printers.

Science in the media (SCOM8016) (Semester 2, 6 units)

This course covers a variety of aspects of science in the media. Topics covered include an analysis of what types of science issues get attention in the media, how to research and write articles, how broadcast media works, formats for written articles, and science-media relations from both the scientists' and journalists' perspectives. Guest lecturers include scientists, media managers, journalists, editors and commentators to provide a range of perspectives on science in the media. The aim of this course is to train students to produce science-based material suitable for publication or broadcast in the popular media and to provide an understanding of how the media works. Students will have direct contact with working science writers and other members of the media to give them the opportunity to have stories printed or broadcast. Masters by coursework students also have a radio component in their assessment which enables them to gain experience in live broadcasting.

Strategies in science communication (SCOM6501) (Semester 1, 6 units)

This course focuses on the creation of clearer and more effective ways to communicate scientific matters to larger audiences. It provides participants with a thorough and practical understanding of the process used in developing a communication plan including the development of a strategic framework and accompanying action plan that allocates resources, responsibilities and timeframes. It has a strong emphasis on relating theory to current industry best practice in implementing a strategic approach to planning communication activities. The major project component is based around field work and science-based (trade) show design.

Science and public policy (SCOM8027) (Semester 2, 6 units)

The successful creation and implementation of public policy about and for science is unavoidably context bound. Generic methods and theories of public policy and governance that are not systematically embedded in social, economic and cultural contexts will be of limited relevance and effect. In this course, science policy and governance in the Australia-Pacific region are examined from a broad range of perspectives, underpinned by relevant theory and practice from the emerging discipline of science communication. Guest lecturers who are leaders in the field of science policy and governance feature significantly throughout the course, as befits the critical and ever-changing nature of the subject matter.

Sub-thesis (SCOM7000) (18 units)

The sub-thesis is a research project which comprises a body of work on an approved topic in science communication. This body of work is not necessarily restricted to an empirical study but can include the submission of an artefact (eg book, CD-ROM, web page) along with a written component justifying the artefactin a theoretical framework based on the current understanding of the area. Students with limited backgrounds in methods of research in science communication will be required to audit the undergraduate course SCOM2002 Research in science communication. This course is offered in semester 1 each year and is a co-requisite for enrolment in the sub-thesis units.

Candidates must satisfy all components of the course to be awarded the degree of Master of Science in Scientific Communication.

Find out more about Graduate Study

For more information please email: scicomm.gradprog@anu.edu.au

Application forms for the Masters by coursework can be obtained from: http://www.anu.edu.au/sas/forms