Science & Health Communication

Communicators should also be adept at managing and organising the flow of information amidst the many complex crises we now face on our planet.



In addition to addressing concerns about misinformation, it is vital to involve society in scientific research and to make science more accessible and inclusive. We can achieve this through various means, such as traditional political and community discussions, online platforms, video blogs, news broadcasts, social media, conferences, seminars, policy briefings and even through the lens of science fiction.



All of these methods can help us tackle both the scientific and social aspects of issues such as climate change, pandemics, emerging technologies and our understanding of the world around us.



The postgraduate degree in Science Communication at DCU was founded in 1996 and is well recognised and received in Ireland and abroad. A health communication strand was added in 2018.



Prospective students who are already in careers in STEM education and public engagement, working in scientific, engineering, environmental and medical fields, in addition to those with backgrounds in the humanities and the social sciences who are interested in science communication as a field and a profession.



We also welcome those interested in leadership and communication in the commercial biomedical sector as well as public health policy, administration and regulation, and environmental communication.



The programme is designed to be flexible, offering both full-time and part-time options. Full-time students complete the program in one year, while part-time students spread it out over two years.



Students will undertake a combination of core and optional modules. Core modules cover essential topics such as Research Methods, Strategic Communications for STEM, Environment, and Healthcare, Informatics in eHealth, Science and Health in the Media, Data Communication, and Understanding Social Media. In addition to these, there are practical modules like Media and Communication Skills and Making Smartphone Videos.



All students, regardless of their study track, will complete a Major Project or Dissertation as a significant part of their program. Additionally, students have the opportunity to gain practical experience through a work placement, enhancing their real-world skills and knowledge in science and health communication.

General Entry Requirements

For admission to the MSc in Science and Health Communication programme, successful applicants will have:



• A degree at the level of an Irish or UK Honours undergraduate degree (H2.2 or above) or equivalent



• Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered. This includes discipline-specific knowledge and know-how; transferable skills; basic research competency; personal effectiveness.



• International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language.

1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

Careers

The programme equips students with the skills and knowledge to excel in these varied roles, contributing to the effective communication of science and health-related information in different sectors.



Graduates of the MSc in Science and Health Communication program have pursued diverse and rewarding career paths. They have secured positions in various fields, including:



Science Public Relations and Information Services: Graduates may work as science communication experts, helping organisations and institutions effectively convey scientific information to the public and media.

Science Journalism: Some alumni have entered the field of science journalism, reporting on scientific developments and research for newspapers, magazines, online publications, and more.

Science Broadcasting: Others have found opportunities in science broadcasting, either as on-air presenters or behind-the-scenes content creators for TV, radio, or online platforms.

Science Teaching: Graduates may choose to become science educators, sharing their knowledge and passion for science in schools, colleges, or educational institutions.

Science Demonstration and Display: Some alumni may work in science museums, exhibitions, and interactive displays, engaging the public with hands-on science experiences.

Science Publishing: Opportunities also exist in science publishing, where graduates contribute to the creation and dissemination of scientific content through books, journals, or online publications.

Web Editing for Science Institutions: With the growth of online content, some find roles as web editors, maintaining and curating scientific information on websites for institutions and organisations.

Educational Software Authoring: Graduates may create educational software and digital content to make science more accessible and engaging for students of all ages.