The MSc has been developed by the School of Biosciences, a leading school in teaching, research and science communication, and the School of History, which has a dedicated research centre in the History of the Sciences. It integrates current theory and practice in communicating science with insights from historical and ethical perspectives. Two core modules have a case study-driven approach to science communication, learning from key scientific moments in history and from science communicators who work in a variety of different professions (media, politics, education, journalism).

Two optional modules allow you to specialise in a particular area relevant to science communication, based on your interests and experience, focusing on either practical/scientific or humanities-based approaches to the study of science communication. A final project allows you to take a practical approach to science communication, or to do in-depth research on a historical or contemporary episode in science.

In some cases, these projects may be undertaken in conjunction with external partners, such as Research Councils or the Institute of Cancer Research.

You can opt to take only the core modules, resulting in a postgraduate certificate, or to take the core plus two optional modules, leading to a postgraduate diploma.

Course content

Compulsory modules

• History of Science Communication
• Science@work: Professional Science Communication
• Project

Optional modules (choose two)

• Science Communication in Practice
• Science, Ethics and Controversy
• Visualising Science
• Geiger Counter at Ground Zero: Explorations of Nuclear America.
• Deformed, Deranged and Deviant: Doctors and Difference 1850-2000
• Science in Translation: Western Science in the Non-Western World

Assessment

Continuous assessment throughout the year is diverse, innovative and context-driven, from short pieces of writing to longer essays, and from media- presentations to mock professional reports and grant applications. The aim of each assessment is not only to monitor understanding, but also to integrate information across modules and give you practical experience in a range of transferable skills for future employability.

T: +44 (0)1227 827272
E: information@kent.ac.uk

The Administrator
School of Biosciences,
University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 7NJ, UK
T: +44 (0)1227 823025
E: bio-admin@kent.ac.uk

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• MSc

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