Our distance Postgraduate Certificate in Science Communication (PGCertSciComm) consists of three papers. The Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication (PGDipSciComm) is a six-paper course that includes an internship placement. Normally, the PGCertSciComm is completed within a single semester and the PGDipSciComm within a year (two semesters). However, many students opt to enrol part-time and to go at their own pace.
Our academic curriculum follows a “staircasing” model, which means that any credits earned for the PGCertSciComm can be applied towards the PGDipSciComm, if you decide to continue with the full one-year programme.
Our papers (classes) are asynchronous in nature, meaning that lectures can be viewed on your own schedule and that you can engage with online activities (class discussions, moderated assessments, etc.) on your own flexible terms.
Both qualifications are therefore ideal for students who prefer to study by distance, such as busy working professionals or those who cannot easily relocate to study on-campus. It is also suitable for students based in Dunedin, but who appreciate and value the flexibility offered by distance learning. From time to time, we may hold on-campus seminars and workshops in science communication, which you are welcome and encouraged to attend, if feasible.
Our staff hold regular “office hours” for drop-in remote meetings and are also available for scheduled meetings at times of mutual convenience.
As a distance student with full access to the University of Otago's electronic library resources, you'll acquire invaluable tricks of the trade, receive editorial feedback on your written work, and become part of a supportive online community, all designed to give you the competitive edge in becoming a successful communicator in this rapidly growing field.
Courses are taught and led by the Department's accomplished academic staff, including Professor Jesse Bering, Professor Lloyd Spencer Davis and Dr Ana Stojanov.
Note: By agreement with the University of Otago, international students enrolled in the Distance degree in Science Communication pay a special rate. Please consult with the degree co‑ordinator for details.
Papers taught in Semester 1
SCOM432 The Craft of Storytelling
A seminar-based paper that explores the requirements for the core skill necessary for the communication of science and natural history – telling a story.
SCOM439 Introduction to Science Communication
A seminar-based introduction to models of science communication, theories of what science is, audiences and publics for science communication and how to communicate widely and effectively.
SCOM419 Special Topic: Key Voices in Science Communication
Examines classic and contemporary readings and other material in creative science communication, exploring use of style, voice, exposition, structure, and other narrative elements in conveying scientific content in engaging ways.
Papers taught in Semester 2
SCOM433 Science and Creative Nonfiction Writing
A seminar-based paper that examines the academic and theoretical issues associated with creative non-fiction and how science can best be popularised.
SCOM434 Science Communication Internship (limited to PGDipSciComm students)
Project-based development of professional skills and networks in a work setting, extending the skills and implementing practices and principles learned in other Science Communication papers.
MART449 Creative Marketing for Behaviour Change, Sustainability, and Social Good*
Explores the theoretical foundations of creative marketing and applying them to encourage behaviour change, specifically in the contexts of environmental conservation, sustainable development and social change. Learn how to apply creative marketing, visual storytelling, and filmmaking for behaviour change initiatives.
(*With approval, a suitable 400-level paper may be substituted for MART 449)
Questions?
For further information, or to discuss whether it is the right fit for you, please contact:
Email scominfo@otago.ac.nz
Visit the Distance learning at Otago website for more information