Program Overview
Science Communication, MS
The Master of Science in Science Communication prepares students to engage in and advocate for valid, reliable public discourse about science, through communication that helps others engage with science in new and meaningful ways. This program takes a modern approach to communication, combining a traditional social science theory and research foundation, with practical, hands-on training to help students become effective boundary spanners between science and society.
Admission Requirements
- CV or Resume
- Personal statement (500 words): In a short essay, applicants should describe why science communication is important to them, their reason(s) for applying to program, and how they feel as though a degree in science communication will advance their future career goals.
- Three letters of recommendation: We are interested in hearing from three different recommenders who can comment on the applicant’s academic strengths, communication or professional skills (including oral, written, and/or multimedia), and/or their potential for success in this graduate program.
- Official transcripts: Applicants must demonstrate a 3.0 cumulative grade point average and a completed Bachelor’s degree.
- Two writing samples: Students may elect to submit two academic/professional writing samples OR one academic/professional writing sample and one creative work. Academic writing samples may include but are not limited to course papers, academic publications, or published news pieces. Creative works may include but are not limited to video recorded live broadcasts, professional social media campaigns, or recorded podcast content.
- Language proficiency scores (international applicants). Please refer to the most up to date requirements found in the Graduate Bulletin.
- GRE scores are optional.
Degree Requirements
The 33-credit Master of Science in Science Communication consists of six required courses (18 credits) and five elective courses (15 credits). Students will work closely with the graduate program director and faculty advisors each semester to develop an individualized plan of study that best fits their interests and career goals. Students may elect to enroll part-time or full-time. Full-time graduate work is defined as a minimum of 9 credits per semester. All courses are offered in an online format.
Required Courses (18 Credits)
- COM 500 - Theories of Science Communication 3 credits
- COM 516 - Communication Research Methods 3 credits
- COM 526 - Building and Assessing Communication Strategies 3 credits
- COM 577 - Communication Law and Ethics 3 credits
- COM 583 - Principles of Inclusive Engagement 3 credits
- COM 699 - Master’s Project in Science Communication 3 credits
Elective Courses (15 Credits)
- COM 517 - Advanced Communication Research Methods 3 credits
- COM 522 - Communicating Science to Policy Makers 3 credits
- COM 534 - Communicating Science Using Digital Media 3 credits
- COM 575 - Special Topics in Science Communication 3 credits
- COM 585 - Communicating Science and Health Risks to the Public 3 credits
- COM 587 - Independent Study 0-6 credits.
- COM 588 - Graduate Internship 0-6 credits
- COM 605 - Environmental Communication 3 credits
- COM 635 - AI, Communication, and Care 3 credits
Requirements for the Concentration in Climate Communication
The concentration in Climate Communication offers students interested in studying climate change a designated set of courses that focus specifically on climate change research and practice. Students have the option to take up to two courses in the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences (SoMAS). Students that elect to declare a concentration in Climate communication will complete the following requirements for the Master of Science in Science Communication.
Required Courses (27 credits)
- COM 516 - Communication Research Methods 3 credits
- COM 526 - Building and Assessing Communication Strategies 3 credits
- COM 550 - Climate Communication 3 credits
- COM 565 - Foundations of Science Communication 3 credits
- COM 577 - Communication Law and Ethics 3 credits
- COM 583 - Principles of Inclusive Engagement 3 credits
- COM 585 - Communicating Science and Health Risks to the Public 3 credits
- COM 605 - Environmental Communication 3 credits
- COM 699 - Master’s Project in Science Communication 3 credits
Elective Courses (6 credits)
Select two courses from the following list.
- COM 522 - Communicating Science to Policy Makers 3 credits
- MAR 514 - Environmental Management 3 credits
- MAR 525 - Environment & Public Health 3 credits
- MAR 534 - Scientific Decision Support 1 credit
- MAR 568 - Practical Skills for Scientists 3 credits
Stony Brook University
Overview:
Stony Brook University is a public research university located in Stony Brook, New York. It is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and is known for its strong academic programs, extensive research facilities, and vibrant campus life.
Services Offered:
Stony Brook University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Resources:
Academic advising, libraries, IT support, and registrar services.Student Support:
Financial aid, bursar services, health services, and career services.Campus Life:
Housing, dining, student activities, and wellness programs.Additional Programs:
Online education, summer sessions, winter session, pre-college programs, and study abroad opportunities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at Stony Brook University can expect a diverse and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities, as well as opportunities for leadership development and community service. The campus is also home to a variety of cultural and entertainment venues, including a performing arts center, a museum, and a planetarium.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
Stony Brook University is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and medicine.Research Opportunities:
The university has a strong research focus and offers students opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects.Vibrant Campus Life:
Stony Brook University has a vibrant campus life with a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities.Beautiful Campus:
The university is located on a beautiful campus with a variety of green spaces and recreational facilities.Academic Programs:
Stony Brook University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
Arts, music, literature, history, and philosophy.Social Sciences:
Psychology, sociology, economics, and political science.Sciences:
Biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and computer science.Engineering:
Mechanical, electrical, civil, and biomedical engineering.Health Sciences:
Medicine, nursing, dentistry, and pharmacy.Other:
Stony Brook University is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Brookhaven National Laboratory, the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and the Stony Brook University Medical Center. The university is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives in place to reduce its environmental impact.
