ObjectivesThe Science Communication Unit based at UWE, is renowned for its innovative and diverse range of national and international activities, designed to engage the public with science. The Science Communication Unit has developed a truly world class MSc programme attracting students from around the globe. The Unit pools its expertise, resources and contacts to deliver a Master's programme that offers unrivalled professional development opportunities for those already working as science communicators or aiming to move into the field. The city of Bristol provides a hub for the science communication community. The University of Bristol work extensively with the media as scientific advisers, whilst Bristol is also home to BBC Bristol who have worked on a range of natural history programmes including Planet Earth. Also located in the city is the award winning science centre At-Bristol, who have collaborated with the Science Communication Unit to develop a number of their innovative initiatives. The MSc Science Communication at UWE utilises these links by providing a range of visiting lecturers who offer practical experience of the media as well as projects designed to bring science directly to the public. This is fully supported by a teaching team who are actively working in the science communication field or related research. The degree focuses on practical skill development and offers you the opportunity to study both how to take science directly to the public and ways of communicating science through the media. Introductory modules provide a broad theoretical underpinning in issues such as the rationale for the public understanding of science, understanding the audience, the role of the media in society, risk communication, communication theory and models of informal learning. You are then encouraged to specialise in either taking science directly to the public or communicating science indirectly through print and broadcast media. Specialisation at this stage allows you to hone your practical skills and develop an individual portfolio that demonstrates your expertise as a science communicator. In the final year, you may choose to further develop your portfolio, for example, by mounting a practical science communication project, or to undertake a more theoretical or research-based dissertation. If for any reason you are unable to complete the whole MSc, you may gain a Postgraduate Certificate by completing 60 credits or a Postgraduate Diploma by completing 120 credits. The MSc requires 180 credits in total.
Entry requirementsApplicants normally have an honours degree awarded by a UK institute of higher education of at least lower second status, in a relevant subject.
Academic titleMSc/Postgraduate Diploma Science Communication
Course descriptionContent
All students take the following modules (30 credits each):
Science and Society – provides a theoretical perspective on the public understanding of science movement and underpins the development of the practical skills needed to take science directly to the public.
Science, the Public and Media – explores debates about the role of the media in society and as a vehicle for science communication.
You choose any two of the following four modules (30 credits each):
New Opportunities in Science Communication - examines cutting edge and alternative approaches to science communication.
Science Direct: in Practice – develop your own science communication initiative in this hands on module.
Writing Science – develops journalistic and other writing styles with a view to developing a portfolio
Broadcasting Science – builds broadcasting skills and allows you to experience the world of radio and TV.
Project (60 credits)– you may choose to further develop your portfolio, undertake a work-based project or research study.
Teaching and learning
Unlike most other Master's programmes in this area, this course seeks to meet the needs of working students. There are short, intensive teaching blocks of two to five days. You can expect to attend three teaching sessions for each 30 credit module. Part-time students will take two 30 credit modules each for two academic years. It is possible to complete the part-time programme in two years by completing the project during the summer of the second year. Full-time students take four taught modules and complete the project in one year. Group sessions are supplemented by directed and independent study, e-mail discussion, tutorials and mentoring.
The final project is designed to be completed independently with support from a tutor and may involve a work placement or work-based research.
Assessment
Modules are assessed in a variety of ways, to reflect the theoretical concepts, knowledge and practical skills that are developed in this course. These include development of a portfolio, reports and oral presentations.