Leadership and impact in science depend on communication.
Technical scientific skills and knowledge are essential to modern science. But to really have impact in science and drive innovation, aspiring leaders need to know how to communicate and engage with the wide range of stakeholders - including funders, other research disciplines, policy makers and community groups - connected with any project.
Our Master of Science Communication provides graduates with the knowledge and skills needed for this task, offering a unique combination of research, cutting edge coursework on a wide range of crucial science communication topics, and work-integrated learning opportunities with key science and science communication organisations.
The program is taught by some of Australia’s leading science communication researchers and practitioners, and can transform careers in science, advocacy, media and government.
For Australian domestic students, Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) are available for this program.
Testimonials
Skye Zhu
“This program taught me has taught me to be more engaging in the way I communicate. Before, I would use lots of technical terms to show how much I knew about science. Now I use plain English so the audience can understand me, and I include stories to relate the science to their daily lives.”
Tiah Penny
“I really value the balance between theory and practical learning in the Master of Science Communication. The placement with Mulligan’s Flat has been a great experience to directly contribute to environmental science communication – spending time in nature, working alongside passionate people, and increasing awareness and appreciation of the Yellow Box Grassy Woodlands and its inhabitants with others. 10/10 experience!”
Careers
Our Master of Science Communication can transform careers in science: leading to greater impact in the scientific world, or communicating science in the advocacy, media and policy sectors.
Many graduates have found careers as communication officers for scientific organisations such as The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), government departments, universities, businesses, NGOs, or in the media. Some have set up science media businesses or consultancy firms. Others work in centres for informal science learning across the world, such as science centres and museums.
The Master’s research project provides an opportunity to produce assessment tailored to the needs of particular organisations or employment sectors, and most coursework assessment can also be tailored to students’ interests, areas of expertise, and career ambitions.
Leading science communication centre
ANU was the first place in Australia to open a science communication centre. It prepares students to be leaders in science communication in Australia and internationally.
Get out of the classroom with work-integrated learning
Learn in authentic, real-world environments in partnership with some of Australia’s leading science communication organisations. You can complete an internship as part of your degree and graduate with real-world science communication skills, professional networks, and pathways to employment.
Global partnerships
We have links with science communication programs in universities across Australia, Europe and the Americas and with science centres on all continents including Asia and Africa.