A new microprogram in Science Communication consisting of five courses (15 units) will offer undergraduate students the opportunity to develop and refine their written, oral, and visual science communication skills.
Scientists are increasingly expected to engage directly with the public to disseminate scientific information of value to society and to inform citizens, allowing them to make evidence-based decisions. However, skills in specialized scientific communication do not translate well during engagements with the public about science (termed science communication). Given that most of our undergraduate science students do not continue to undertake higher graduate studies upon completion of their BSc degrees, these future scientists in society will need skills in generalized science communication in order to effectively engage their public peers in meaningful communications about science during their future careers. For those students destined for careers in academia, this early exposure to science communication will allow them to have an extended reach for their research results, as well as a strong voice in the democratic process of societal discourse.
Microprogram in Science Communication program requirements
