Science Communication and Public Engagement MSc, PgDip, PgCert (Online Learning) The University of Edinburgh

The fields of science communication and public engagement are currently enjoying unprecedented growth.

This is being driven by many factors including:

• a greater need to demonstrate the impact of publicly funded research
• the need for science and other expertise to be accessible to public audiences
• desire for a stronger evidence base for policy decisions

Many career opportunities are emerging at the interface between science and various stakeholder groups and ever more creative methodologies for science engagement are being explored. The programme covers the communication of all sciences, engineering, maths and technology and other disciplines.

Teaching blocks

The teaching is spread evenly throughout the year in three blocks, usually September to December, January to April, April to July.

Online learning

Our online learning technology enables you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.

Our online students not only have access to Edinburgh’s excellent resources, but also become part of a supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from around the world.

Why Edinburgh

Our part-time, online learning programme provides an opportunity to gain a formal qualification in science communication without having to leave your job or move to a different location. There is no requirement to travel to Edinburgh, although you would be most welcome if you wish to visit.

You may elect to begin with the Postgraduate Certificate in the first instance and then decide to study for a Diploma and/or a Masters degree.

You will engage with other students from around the world, from a variety of different academic and professional backgrounds and you will enjoy a rich learning experience while studying on the programme.

The University of Edinburgh is currently ranked 15th in the World in the QS World University Rankings 2023.

The programme attracts students from across the globe, from a range of academic and professional backgrounds and provides a formal qualification for those working in science communication and public engagement or a conversion route for those interested in moving into this field or whose role at work is evolving.

Applicants often ask how much time they should set aside for study. We would recommend 10-15 hours per week.

You will experience a variety of science communication and public engagement practices and issues. In the process, you will develop your critical thinking skills and ability to reflect on your learning.

Your learning in individual courses is transferable, ensuring interconnection across the programme, thus providing opportunities for deeper learning and for the application of key principles in different contexts.

There has been a significant rise in opportunities available for individuals with the specialist knowledge, skills and attributes necessary to pursue roles at the interface between research and public.

These roles can be found in, for example, higher education institutions, museums, science centres, learned societies and consultancies for democratic decision-making.

Examples of specific roles include:

• engagement managers
• information and education officers
• policy and knowledge brokers

Additionally, many students on the programme are in full-time employment and their roles have developed to involve science communication and public engagement. They have found the programme extremely useful and in some cases has led to promotion within the organisation.

Programme structure

The programme can be studied to PG Certificate, PG Diploma or Masters level - if you are interested, in a formal qualification in science communication then sign up for our Postgraduate Certificate. You can then opt to transfer to the Diploma and the Masters degree.

Year 1 (Certificate)

Courses currently on offer include:

• Introduction to Science Communication and Public Engagement
• Science and Society A
• Science and Society B
• Principles and Practice in Public Engagement with Science
• Science Education
• The Role of Social Media in Science Communication

Year 2 (Diploma)

Courses currently on offer include:

• Dialogue for Science Communication and Public Engagement
• Science, Policy, and Practice
• Science and the Media
• Effective Exhibit and Programme Development
• Creative Arts in Science Engagement
• Principles and Practice in Public Engagement with Science

Year 3 (Masters)

Dissertation project.