Science Communication, Certificate
Program Overview
Introduction to the Science Communication Certificate
The Department of Life Sciences Communication (LSC) at the University of WisconsinMadison offers a certificate in science communication, which is designed to teach students how to understand and effectively communicate complex scientific breakthroughs. This program operates at the intersection of science, media, and society, providing students with a comprehensive introduction to science communication theory and practical experience.
How to Get in
Students are eligible to declare the certificate at any point in their undergraduate career, but they are encouraged to declare as early as possible to plan the required coursework. It is recommended that students meet with the advisor to discuss certificate requirements and ensure it fits with their academic and career goals. Students who are ready to declare the certificate can do so by completing the necessary form. However, students are not allowed to earn both the science communication certificate and the life sciences communication major.
Requirements
To complete the certificate, students must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum 2.0 GPA on all certificate courses
- At least 9 credits must be taken in residence at UW-Madison
- Courses in which a student elects the pass/fail option will not count toward completion of the certificate requirements
The certificate requires a total of 12 credits, which includes:
- Core Course (Required): LSC 251, Science, Media and Society (3 credits)
- Focus Area, complete one course in each focus area (6 credits)
- Communication Strategy
- Communication Skills & Technology
- Elective, complete one course from either focus area (3 credits)
- Communication Strategy
- Communication Skills & Technology
Focus Areas
Communication Strategy
Course options include:
- LSC 250: Research Methods in the Communication Industry (3 credits)
- LSC 270: Marketing Communication for the Sciences (3 credits)
- LSC 340: Misinformation, Fake News, and Correcting False Beliefs about Science (3 credits)
- LSC 350: Visualizing Science and Technology (3 credits)
- LSC 435: Brand Strategy for the Sciences (3 credits)
- LSC 440: Digital Media and Science Communication (3 credits)
- LSC 480: Culturally Responsive Science Communication (3 credits)
- LSC/COM ARTS/JOURN 617: Health Communication in the Information Age (3 credits)
- LSC 625: Risk Communication (3 credits)
- LSC 660: Data Analysis in Communications Research (3 credits)
Communication Skills & Technology
Course options include:
- LSC 212: Introduction to Scientific Communication (3 credits)
- LSC 314: Introduction to Digital Video Production (3 credits)
- LSC 332: Digital and Print Media Design (3 credits)
- LSC 360: Science Podcasting & Radio (3 credits)
- LSC 430: Communicating Science with Narrative (3 credits)
- LSC 432: Social Media for the Sciences (3 credits)
- LSC 450: Documentary Photography for the Sciences (3 credits)
- LSC 460: Social Media Analytics (3 credits)
- LSC 480: Culturally Responsive Science Communication (3 credits)
- LSC 532: Web Design for the Sciences (3 credits)
- LSC 614: Advanced Video Production (3 credits)
Certificate Completion Requirement
This undergraduate certificate must be completed concurrently with the students undergraduate degree. Students cannot delay degree completion to complete the certificate.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the certificate, students will be able to:
- Apply knowledge in theoretical and applied communication to help meet societys biggest challenges in science and technology.
- Discuss the interdependencies among individuals and their workplaces, communities, environments, and world; and the interrelationships between science and society.
- Communicate effectively across media and a broad range of audiences.
- Collaborate with others in small and large groups, demonstrating an appreciation for diverse views and a strong sense of personal and professional ethics.
Advising and Careers
Advising
Current and prospective students should contact the advisor with questions or schedule an advising meeting.
Careers
The interdisciplinary education provided through the certificate in science communication will make graduates highly sought after by employers across both scientific and communication industries. Graduates can pursue careers in science writing, digital media and marketing, public health, environmental advocacy, and research in industry, non-profits, and the government. Alternatively, others may go on to graduate and professional schools in the health, biological, social, and physical sciences.
Wisconsin Experience
Internships
Students are notified of opportunities to apply for summer and academic year internships related to science communication. Students could intern with marketing agencies, environmental and sustainability organizations, and healthcare and agricultural agencies.
Student Organizations
The Department of Life Sciences Communication is home to the Science Communication Club, Journal of Undergraduate Science and Technology (JUST), and the National Agri-Marketing Association UWMadison chapter, among other opportunities for students to get involved with student organizations on campus.
Community Engagement and Volunteering
Certificate students could volunteer in healthcare, non-profits, advocacy agencies, and more. The Morgridge Center for Public Service provides resources to help students connect with volunteer opportunities based on their interests and goals.