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Science Communication at Bristol, UWE - UCAS

Bristol, UWE

Degree level: Postgraduate
Awarded by: University of the West of England, Bristol

Science Communication (Taught)

Course options

There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

Course summary

Study in our Science Communication Unit, a research centre recognised for leading research, creative practice, and outstanding teaching. Our teaching block structure supports study alongside other commitments, while you build connections and gain in-demand skills. Why study this course? Our MSc Science Communication is well-known and widely respected. Teaching and research are shaped in collaboration with active practitioners to ensure you'll gain the skills that employers need. The course blends theory with practice, helping you understand how to communicate science effectively and why it matters, so you're prepared for a career as a professional science communicator in an evolving landscape. Why UWE Bristol? On our Science Communication master's, you'll study in our Science Communication Unit, a research centre known for its creative practice, outstanding teaching, and research that connects science with society. You'll be taught by experienced academics and hear from visiting lecturers working across science communication; recent speakers include the BBC Natural History Unit, British Science Association, the Pervasive Media Studio, and a range of science communication consultancies, universities, and research councils. You'll gain a theoretical foundation in areas such as public engagement with science, understanding audiences, digital media, inclusive approaches to science communication, and models of informal learning. Through optional modules in science writing, video and audio production, and face-to-face public engagement, you'll build a portfolio of work that showcases your expertise as a science communicator. The course is also designed with flexibility in mind, using teaching blocks that support students balancing study with work or caring responsibilities. Lectures, workshops, and seminars are supplemented by directed and independent study, guided online learning, tutorials, and mentoring. Where can it take me? MSc Science Communication graduates leave with a strong mix of academic knowledge, practical experience and professional connections. The final project lets you explore your interests in depth, with the option to publish your work. You'll also have opportunities to collaborate with sector partners, and with Bristol as a hub for science media and engagement, you'll be surrounded by possibilities. Visit the Science Communication Unit Blog to see where some of our graduates are now working. Student quote "The MSc was a game changer for me. Smaller cohorts allowed better integration and interaction between staff and students, which boosted my confidence to contribute in class. The staff encouraged us to explore our individual creative and research interests, to push boundaries and take risks." Sophie, MSc Science Communication graduate.

Modules

The optional modules listed are those that are most likely to be available, but they may be subject to change. You will study: Science and Society - Provides a theoretical perspective on the public understanding of science movement, transitions to public engagement, and formal and informal learning. Science, the Public and Media - Explores debates about the role of the media in society and opportunities for science communication, such as in science centres and museums. Plus, two optional modules from: Science on Air and on Screen - Build your radio, TV and digital skills by critically exploring the role of broadcast media in the communication of science. You'll also make an 'as live' radio magazine programme about science and a short film. Science in Public Spaces - Develop your own science communication initiative in this hands-on module from developing a creative concept, to seeking funding, and managing and evaluating a project. You'll explore a range of innovative approaches from sci-art, to museums, festivals to theatre. Writing Science - Improve your journalistic and other writing styles, including writing for news media, public relations and educational purposes, with a view to developing a portfolio, as well as working on a magazine project. You then undertake your Science Communication project. This is your opportunity to explore a specific aspect of science communication in depth, independently, but with tutor support. You can apply to carry out your project with an external organisation. Learning and Teaching Unlike most Master's courses in this area, the MSc Science Communication addresses the needs of working students. There are short, intensive teaching blocks of three to five days, and you can expect to attend three teaching sessions for each 30 credit module. If you study this programme part-time, you'll take two 30 credit modules each for two academic years. It's possible to complete the part-time course in two years by finishing your project during the summer of the second year, or you may prefer to take a third year. Full-time students take four taught modules and complete the project in 14 months. Group sessions are supplemented by directed and independent study, email discussions, tutorials and mentoring. See our full glossary of learning and teaching terms. Study time 12 - 18 months full-time or 30 - 42 months part-time. You'll attend three teaching blocks for each 30 credit course module. Teaching blocks are typically three days long, Thursday - Saturday.

Assessment method

The modules are assessed in a variety of ways, to reflect the theoretical concepts, knowledge and practical skills you'll develop. For example, through portfolios, reports and oral presentations all of which you can use to attract prospective employers. The ability to evaluate your own work and others' is critical to success in the workplace, and several assessments are designed to help you acquire these skills.


Entry requirements

An honours degree (at least 2:2) awarded by a UK institute of higher education, or equivalent. As science communication is a field that requires cross disciplinary knowledge, skills, and/ or experience, we accept students with a range of backgrounds across the sciences, arts, humanities, and social sciences. For example, previous students have come from disciplines including natural and applied sciences, psychology, journalism, medicine, media studies, arts, mathematics, education, and engineering. We encourage you to contact the Programme Leader (via the entry for this course on the UWE Bristol website: https://courses.uwe.ac.uk/P90012/science-communication) if you would like clarification on whether you meet the entry requirements. If you do not meet the above entry requirements but have at least 12 months relevant professional experience and/or equivalent qualifications, we will consider your application on an individual basis.


English language requirements

International and EU applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 with 5.5 in each component (or approved equivalent*). *The University accepts a large number of UK and international qualifications in place of IELTS. To find details of acceptable tests and the required grades please visit our English Language requirements pages: https://www.uwe.ac.uk/courses/applying/international-applications/english-language-requirements English language support If you meet the academic requirements but require additional support to take your language skills to the required level, you may be able to attend one of our pre-sessional English courses. Students who successfully complete the pre-sessional course can progress onto their chosen degree course without retaking an IELTS or equivalent. Read more about our Pre-Sessional English Programme: https://courses.uwe.ac.uk/YQ33


Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

Fee information is to be confirmed. All fees are subject to final approval. Please visit our website for further information.
Science Communication at Bristol, UWE - UCAS