The fields of science communication and public engagement are currently enjoying unprecedented growth.
This is driven by many situations present in modern society including public health and climate change crises, greater need to demonstrate and share the impact of publicly funded research, the need for research to be valued and a desire for a stronger evidence base for policy.
Many career opportunities are emerging at the interface between research and various stakeholder groups, and ever more creative methodologies for engagement are being explored. The programme covers communication of and engagement with all sciences, engineering, maths and technology together with non-science disciplines.
You will experience a variety of science communication and public engagement approaches and contexts. In the process, you will develop critical thinking skills and reflective practice.
The learning gained from one course is transferable to other courses, thus ensuring interconnection across the programme.
Please note this MSc is NOT a programme in communication science and does not specialise in marketing, advertising, or corporate communication.
Programme structure
This MSc is a one-year programme, divided into three semesters. The final semester consists of a choice of research or practice-based project.
Teaching methods contain a blend of seminars with individual and small-group activities, together with practice-based sessions. Teaching styles will be designed to ‘model’ the practices in science communication and public engagement.
Compulsory courses
Semester 1
- Principles and Practice in Science Communication and Public Engagement (20 credits)
- Science, Society and the Media (20 credits)
- The Role of Social Media in Science Communication and Public Engagement (10 credits)
- Placement course
Semester 2
- Dialogue for Science Communication and Public Engagement (20 credits)
- Science Education (10 credits)
- Science, Policy and Practice (10 credits)
- Placement course
- Choice of Elective courses (10 credits)
Examples of elective courses include*:
- Digital Making and Information Visualisation for Science Communication and Public Engagement
- Creative Arts and Science Engagement
Following semester 2
- Dissertation (60 credits)
(*Revised 15 October 2020 to include examples of elective courses.)
Find out more about compulsory and optional courses
We link to the latest information available. Please note that this may be for a previous academic year and should be considered indicative.
| Award | Title | Duration | Study mode | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSc | 1 Year | Full-time | Programme structure 2020/21 |
Entry requirements
A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in a science-related subject.
We will also consider your application if you have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in another discipline.
Course Website
( https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/postgraduate/degrees/index.php?r=site/view&edition=2021&id=790 )
