Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication

Over the last thirty years, science communication has gained new significance for scientific careers and in policy. The engagement of the general public with the scientific culture is seen as vital for a healthy democracy. The need for scientists to effectively communicate with the wider public has been recognised by major funding bodies and learned societies.

Science communicators are now dealing with often complex and sensitive problems, in public health, energy economics, climate politics and research funding, in the private and public sectors and at local and global scales. This present a great challenge to science communicators’ intellectual, social and practical skills. It requires a deep appreciation of the theories of effective communication and engagement, the thoughtful use of innovative and practical approaches, an understanding of the needs of the audience, and an awareness of the broader ethical and societal implications of the science. High quality training in science communication will provide these skills and expertise, and fits with the underlying principles of the Concordat for Engaging the Public with Research.

Who is the course designed for?

The programme aims to develop individual science communicators who are able to adopt an informed, responsive, discipline relevant and critically reflective approach to the practical delivery of science communication at a high level.

Aims of the programme

• Provide professionally relevant teaching and learning in the theory, knowledge and skills that underpin, and are at the forefront of, science communication and engagement.
• Develop and create skilled science communicators with the necessary expertise and understanding to engage in and deliver well-informed high-quality science communication activities appropriate to the needs of their discipline and their audience.
• Promote a comprehensive understanding of the practical and ethical considerations relevant to science communication.
• Provide students with the theoretical knowledge and the practical opportunity to apply their learning in a work-relevant and practical manner through the design, delivery and evaluation of a specific science communication or engagement activity.
• Develop in students the judgement, confidence and responsibility that will enable them to be proactive, responsible and discriminating in their interventions at a high level in their profession.

Teaching and learning

The course is delivered using a variety of learning styles, combining interactive face-to-face learning with online delivery. Seminars, practical demonstrations, workshops, problem-based learning and small group working will be delivered and facilitated by experts in the field of science-related communication and engagement. Learning on this programme is highly experiential, recognising both the practical nature and application of science communication, and that students learn from both what is taught and how it is being taught.

Online resources, provided through a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), draw on specific science communication topics, case studies, and relevant and appropriate additional resources. Understanding of academic theory and its practical application is facilitated through discussions and critical appraisals with peers and with tutors.

Applicants are normally expected to a hold a 2i degree or higher from a UK university or an equivalent from an overseas university in a STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) or medical subject.