Introduction
Based in our renowned Science Communication Unit, this flexible Master's is led by expert staff from this ever-evolving field. The course provides students with a contemporary knowledge of science communication practice underpinned by cutting-edge research, combined with extensive industry links.
The Science Communication Unit (SCU) at UWE Bristol is recognised for internationally leading research, creative approaches to practice and outstanding teaching. Our MSc Science Communication gives you an excellent opportunity to benefit from the Unit's international expertise, resources and contacts. It provides those new to the field with a knowledge of research and practice that's in demand by employers. The course also offers those with some experience an opportunity to develop new innovative approaches to their work.
Why study MSc Science Communication?
The Science Communication Unit is well known and widely respected in the industry, as is our Science Communication Master's. The Unit's staff have extensive experience of science communication practice. Our research seeks to bring science and society closer together, as well as being societally relevant. It's developed in conjunction with those who practice science communication, with the aim of advancing the field.
Bristol is a hub for science communication. It's home to BBC Studios, which produces a range of natural history programmes, including Frozen Planet, and the popular science magazine, BBC Science Focus. Bristol is also home to the award-winning science centre, We The Curious, which the Unit has collaborated with for over 15 years.
As well as drawing on the academic and practical experience of staff within the Science Communication Unit, our MSc course gives you an opportunity to meet a range of visiting lecturers. Many of these work in the industry and you can benefit from their real-world practical experience. This also provides an excellent networking opportunity for students interested in developing contacts among science communication practitioners.
The course is structured in a way that enables those working to study with us. It combines a solid theoretical background with practical skill development and has excellent links with the sectors and industries it informs. Visiting specialists also help you understand what they are looking for in future employees.
Introductory modules provide a broad theoretical foundation in areas such as the rationale for public engagement with science, understanding the audience, the role of the media in society, communication theory and models of informal learning.
You'll then specialise by choosing from optional modules in science writing, video and audio production for podcasts and vodcasts and face-to-face public engagement. Within these modules, you'll develop skills informed by the latest trends in science communication. You'll be provided with opportunities to hone your practical skills and develop a portfolio of work that showcases your expertise as a science communicator.
A final project draws together your interests, by allowing you to focus in depth on one area. You may choose to explore an area of research or take a more practical approach, such as evaluating a science communication activity. We offer a number of projects hosted by external organisations, which gives you the opportunity to tackle a real-world problem.
Inspirational and vocational
The weaving together of theory and practice ensures our Science Communication Master's is intellectually stimulating while also providing the skills employers seek. Visit the Science Communication Unit Blog to find out more about our ongoing projects, as well as where some of our graduates are now working after the course.
Please contact the Programme Leader if you would like more information.
Comments from former students
"When deciding where to study a master's degree, employability was a huge factor for me. I was keen to study somewhere that would teach me how to get stuck straight into the world of science communication. From day one in the Science Communication Unit, we were treated like professionals and encouraged to present ourselves as so to the rest of the sci-comm community." Siobhan, former MSc Science Communication student
"My advice: if you're thinking about science communication, give it a go. Attend a taster, attend the Masterclass. It will be rigorous and challenging, but you'll walk away with skills and confidence to go after anything. I know I did. Then join me at NASA." Kassie, former MSc Science Communication student