M.Sc. in Science Communication

The programme explores social issues in science and technology, and the communications and controversies surrounding them. It will ensure that you have a good grasp of the social significance of science and you are capable of reflecting critically on the place of science and technology in society.

This MSc caters for students with diverse backgrounds in the natural sciences, the social sciences and humanities. By bringing these students together, the programme stimulates interaction, encouraging the different groups to reflect more fully on the contribution that the others make to the development of the total cultural fabric.

Although not primarily concerned with training in technical communications, the programme does include some practically oriented modules.

Whether or not you have a scientific background, if you are interested in a career in science media, marketing, policy, or specialist areas in communicating health, environment, IT or risk, the MSc in Science Communication is for you.

• To develop your understanding of the many different interactions between institutions of science and those of broader society.
• To deepen your ability to analyse critically the strategies applied to communicating science in diverse social contexts.
• To strengthen your capacity to participate in the public communication of complex information on science, environment, technology and medicine.

Programme Structure:

Full-time students attend lectures and coursework two to three days a week, depending on the options taken, for an academic year. Lectures and seminars take place in the late afternoon and evening to accommodate students who are working. The work placement (INTRA) and dissertation are completed in the summer period, May to September.

Part-time students attend for one to two days a week and they complete their dissertation in Year 2.

Why DCU:

Why Do This Programme?

• Unique in Ireland and a pioneer in Europe.
• Well-established programme, having been in existence for 17 years.
• Interdisciplinary and innovative in its content and delivery.
• Internationally recognised as a significant contributor to a growing discipline.
• Supported by strong research activity in collaborative and individual projects, drawing on Irish and international science communication networks.

Entry Requirements:

The programme is suitable for recent graduates and for those with professional experience in science or communications.

To be eligible, candidates are required to have a second class or better honours degree. Consideration is also given to candidates who have lesser qualifications but significant and appropriate professional experience. Applicants are asked to submit an article on a science-related topic of 750 words, written for a general-interest publication. Selection is done on the basis of the formal application, the submitted article and the candidate's statement of motivation. Candidates may be called for interview which mainly serves the purpose of clarifying for the applicants and for the academic staff on the programme that the prospective students have a clear sense of what may lie ahead.