Introduction
The University of Edinburgh is currently ranked as 16th in the World in the QS World University Rankings 2022.
Programme description
The fields of science communication and public engagement are currently enjoying unprecedented growth. This is being driven by a greater need to demonstrate the impact of publicly funded research, the need for science to be valued, increased government scrutiny and a desire for a stronger evidence base for policy decisions. Many career opportunities are emerging at the interface between science and various stakeholder groups and ever more creative methodologies for science engagement are being explored.
Our part-time online distance learning programme provides an opportunity to gain a formal qualification in science communication without having to leave your job or move to a different location. You may elect to begin with the Post-Graduate Certificate in the first instance and then decide to study for a Diploma and/or a Master’s degree. You will engage with other students from around the world, from a variety of different academic and professional backgrounds and you will enjoy a rich learning experience while studying on the programme.
You will experience a variety of science communication and public engagement methodologies and issues. In the process, you will develop critical thinking and self-evaluation skills through reflective practice. Your learning in individual courses is transferable, ensuring interconnection across the programme, thus providing opportunities for deeper learning and for the application of key principles in different contexts.
The programme attracts students from across the globe, from a range of academic and professional backgrounds and provides a formal qualification for those working in science communication and public engagement or a conversion route for those interested in moving into this field.
Online learning
Our online learning technology is fully interactive, award-winning and enables you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.
Our online students not only have access to Edinburgh’s excellent resources but also become part of a supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from around the world.
Programme structure
The programme can be studied to PG Certificate, PG Diploma or Masters level – if you are interested, in a formal qualification in science communication then sign up for our Post Graduate Certificate. You can then opt to continue to the DiplomaMaster'se Masters degree.
Year 1 (Certificate)
Courses currently on offer include:
Introduction to Science Communication and Public Engagement
Science and Society A
Science and Society B
Principles and Practice in Public Engagement with Science
Science Education
The Role of Social Media in Science Communication
Year 2 (Diploma)
Courses currently on offer include:
Dialogue for Science Communication and Public Engagement
Science, Policy, and Practice
Science and the Media
Effective Exhibit and Programme Development
Creative Arts in Science Engagement
Principles and Practice in Public Engagement with Science
Year 3 (Masters)
Dissertation project.
Career opportunities
To address the need for effective science communication and public engagement with science, there has been a significant rise in opportunities available for professionals with the specialist knowledge, skills, and attributes necessary to pursue roles at the interface between scientific research and public.
These roles can be found in, for example, Higher Education Institutions, Research Centres, Museums, Science Centres, Learned Societies and consultancies for democratic decision-making. Examples of specific roles are engagement managers, information and education officers, policy and knowledge brokers, in addition to the traditional science communicator role.
Entry requirements
A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent.
We may also consider your application if you have relevant work experience; please contact us to check before you apply. You may be admitted to the certificate level only in the first instance.
English language requirements
All applicants must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of their English language ability:
an undergraduate or masters degree, that was taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country as defined by UK Visas and Immigration
IELTS Academic: total 7.0 (at least 6.5 in each module)
TOEFL-iBT: total 100 (at least 23 in each module)
PTE(A): total 67 (at least 61 in each of the "Communicative Skills" sections; the "Enabling Skills" sections are not considered)
CAE and CPE: total 185 (at least 176 in each module)
Trinity ISE: ISE III with a pass in all four components
Degrees taught and assessed in English must be no more than three years old at the beginning of your degree programme. Language tests must be no more than two years old at the beginning of your degree programme.
