Stony Brook University Stony Brook University 21 courses 9 total credits
School of Communication and Journalism (SoCJ) Degree Awarded: Master of Science in Science Communication Dean: Karin Wilkins, PhD Graduate Program Director: J.D. This program takes a modern approach to communication, combining a traditional social science theory and research foundation, with practical, hands-on training to help students become effective boundary spanners between science and society. Students will learn to: Share scientific discoveries in ways that resonate with diverse audiences Conduct and evaluate empirical, social science research Design targeted communication campaigns that respond to the needs, values, and cultures of an audience Recognize their own biases and understand how their experiences shape how they see and interact with individuals and societies Support diversity and inclusion in written and verbal communication Apply contemporary legal and ethical practices in face-to-face and digital communication Contribute to high-quality, professional projects that build bridges between science and society Designed to meet the needs of a diverse student population, this program welcomes students from a variety of educational and professional backgrounds including but not limited to, STEM, health sciences, and/or the social sciences and humanities. This program is best suited for students interested in pursuing careers in professional science communication, that seek to bring science out of labs and libraries and into the world. Students with a...
| Total Credits | 9 credits |
Required Courses
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| COM 500 | Theories of Science Communication | 3 |
| COM 516 | Communication Research Methods | 3 |
| COM 526 | Strategic Communication | 3 |
| COM 577 | Communication Law and Ethics | 3 |
| COM 583 | Principles of Inclusive Engagement | 3 |
| COM 699 | Master’s Project in Science Communication | 3 |
| Total Required Courses | 18 credits | |
Elective Courses
Note: Science Communication students may complete select JRN courses for elective credit, with departmental approval.
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| COM 517 | Advanced Communication Research Methods | 3 |
| COM 522 | Communicating Science to Policy Makers | 3 |
| COM 534 | Communicating Using Digital Media | 3 |
| COM 575 | Special Topics in Science Communication | 3 |
| COM 585 | Communicating Science and Health Risks to the Public | 3 |
| COM 587 | Independent Study | 0-6 |
| COM 588 | Graduate Internship | 0-6 |
| COM 605 | Environmental Communication | 3 |
| COM 635 | AI, Communication, and Care | 3 |
| Total Elective Courses | 15 credits | |
Required Courses
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| COM 516 | Communication Research Methods | 3 |
| COM 526 | Strategic Communication | 3 |
| COM 550 | Climate Communication | 3 |
| COM 565 | Foundations of Science Communication | 3 |
| COM 577 | Communication Law and Ethics | 3 |
| COM 583 | Principles of Inclusive Engagement | 3 |
| COM 585 | Communicating Science and Health Risks to the Public | 3 |
| COM 605 | Environmental Communication | 3 |
| COM 699 | Master’s Project in Science Communication | 3 |
| Total Required Courses | 27 credits | |
Elective Courses
Select two courses from the following list.
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| COM 522 | Communicating Science to Policy Makers | 3 |
| MAR 514 | Environmental Management | 3 |
| MAR 525 | Environment & Public Health | 3 |
| MAR 534 | Scientific Decision Support | 1 |
| MAR 568 | Practical Skills for Scientists | 3 |
| Total Elective Courses | 6 credits | |
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