This transdisciplinary specialisation will give you insights in the fundamentals of science, of communication and of science communication. You will develop an in-depth understanding of communication processes between scientists of different disciplines, between different sciences and their stakeholders, and between science and the individual members of society (citizens).
In addition to a theoretical part, we will also cover various practical forms of science communication. Examples include designing a science exhibition (Science Museology), creating a scientific background article, podcast and video (Science Journalism) and organising public events to discuss and map new, controversial developments, like DNA manipulation and cultured meat (Science in Dialogue). In this, you will collaborate with students from different disciplines, practitioners from the field and stakeholders or (specific groups of) citizens. The specialisation is concluded with one or two Science Communication internships, in which you apply the acquired science communication knowledge and skills.
Through this specialisation, you will become a reflective science communication practitioner. This means that you become a practitioner who is aware about own perspectives, principles and theories underlying the own practice. You know who you are, your values and world views, how these shape your professional thinking and behaviour, and how to continuously improve or adjust those for sake of bettering the science-society relationship.
Our alumni currently work, for instance, as science journalists for newspapers or magazines, content designers for science or technology museums, trainers or teachers in science or science communication, change makers, dialogue facilitators or consultants, but also as science or technology policy-makers, science communication researchers or social scientists.
The programme can also be followed as a major (60 EC), which is open to students of most two-year Masters at the Faculties of Science of VU and UvA. Visit the major webpage for more information.