
Science Communication and Public Engagement (Online Learning) MSc, PgCert, PgDip
Online
DURATION
1 up to 3 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
22 Aug 2025
EARLIEST START DATE
08 Sep 2025
TUITION FEES
GBP 6,370 / per year *
STUDY FORMAT
Distance Learning
* estimated tuition for science communication and public engagement: MSc, PgCert, PgDip
Introduction
The programme covers communication of all science, engineering, maths and technology.
The fields of science communication and public engagement are currently enjoying unprecedented growth. This expansion is driven by many situations present in modern society including:
- The need for effective public health and climate change communication and engagement
- A greater need to demonstrate and share the impact of publicly funded research
- The need for research to be valued and a desire for a stronger evidence base for policy decisions
Many career opportunities are emerging at the interface between research/researchers and various stakeholder groups, and ever more creative methods and practices for engagement are being explored and utilised. The MSc programme covers the communication of and engagement with all sciences, engineering, maths and technology together with non-science disciplines.
You will experience a variety of science communication and public engagement approaches and contexts. In the process, you will develop critical thinking skills and reflective practice. The learning gained from one course is transferable to other courses, thus ensuring interconnection across the programme.
Please note this MSc is NOT a programme in communication science and does not specialise in marketing, advertising, or corporate communication.
Why Edinburgh?
Our part-time, online 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. There is no requirement to travel to Edinburgh, although you would be most welcome if you wish to visit.
You may elect to begin with the Postgraduate 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.
Awards
MSc, PgCert, PgDip
Ideal Students
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 or whose role at work is evolving.
Applicants often ask how much time they should set aside for study. We would recommend 10-15 hours per week.
Program Outcome
Learning outcomes
You will experience a variety of science communication and public engagement practices and issues. In the process, you will develop your critical thinking skills and ability to reflect on your learning.
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.
Career Opportunities
There has been a significant rise in opportunities available for individuals with the specialist knowledge, skills and attributes necessary to pursue roles at the interface between research and the public.
These roles can be found in, for example, higher education institutions, museums, science centres, learned societies and consultancies for democratic decision-making.
Examples of specific roles include:
- Engagement managers
- Information and education officers
- Policy and knowledge brokers
Additionally, many students on the programme are in full-time employment and their roles have developed to involve science communication and public engagement. They have found the programme extremely useful and in some cases has led to promotion within the organisation.
Curriculum
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 Postgraduate Certificate. You can then opt to transfer to the Diploma and the Masters degree.
Year 1 (Certificate)
Courses currently on offer include:
- Introduction to Science Communication and Public Engagement
- Science Education
- Understanding Science
- Principles and Practice in Public Engagement with Science
- Science in Context
- The Role of Social Media in Science Communication
Year 2 (Diploma)
Courses currently on offer include:
- Science, Policy and Practice
- Dialogue for Science Communication and Public Engagement
- Science and the Media
- Creative Arts in Science Engagement
- Museums Exhibitions, Interpretation and Informal Learning
- Principles and Practice in Public Engagement with Science II
Please note elective availability is subject to annual academic review and demand.
Year 3 (Masters)
Dissertation project.
Admissions
Program Tuition Fee
Scholarships and Funding
Funding for postgraduate study is different to undergraduate study, and many students need to combine funding sources to pay for their studies.
Most students use a combination of the following funding to pay their tuition fees and living costs:
- Borrowing money
- Taking out a loan
- Family support
- Taking out a loan
- Family support
- Personal savings
- Income from work
- Employer sponsorship
- Scholarships
UK government postgraduate loans
If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.
The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:
- your programme
- the duration of your studies
- your tuition fee status
Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.
Program delivery
Online learning
Our online learning technology 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.
Teaching blocks
The teaching is spread evenly throughout the year in three blocks, usually September to December, January to April, and April to July.
Program Admission Requirements
Show your commitment and readiness for Grad school by taking the GRE - the most broadly accepted exam for graduate programs internationally.