...there is a better way...

Popularizing Science



Popsci button
This is New Zealand's first dedicated University-based course in Popularizing science and one of only two in the world that covers science communication in such a comprehensive fashion.

During this unique two-year course, get a Master of Science Communication (MSciComm) degree and do the following:

  • Produce an original example of science communication - ranging from effective school resources to audio and digital media, or museum exhibits.
  • Thoroughly research the background and theory behind your piece of work and write a Masters thesis.
  • Explore the interface between science and society by researching public attitudes to new technologies and medicines.
  • Learn how to craft stories - the key skill for effective communication.
  • Develop an understanding of what makes written and graphical communication effective from the audience's perspective.
  • Learn how to communicate effectively in the digital realm.
  • Develop an understanding of the elements of design that make communication engaging.
  • Develop confidence in the presentation and debate of scientific issues.

Most Thursdays from 12noon til 1pm during semester time, second year students and invited guests will be delivering seminars in the Centre for Science Communication's Teaching room. Check out the seminar list for 2010 here: Seminars

Follow the link to view a list of possible topics for a MSciComm in Popularising Science Projects

We live in a world dominated by science and technology, but a world in which people are increasingly isolated from it. Science is increasingly complex and specialised, yet, if we are to understand the changes we see in the world's environment and be part of the drive for a more sustainable future, science must speak in a language that is understandable and compelling. That comprehension can only come from better communication of science.

That's what Popularising Science is all about: Seeking better ways.

Course Structure



The University of Otago's MSciComm is a two-year full-time programme. This general course in Science Communication (i.e. not endorsed in any particular area such as filmmaking or writing) is restricted to a maximum of 12 students each year.

First Year of the Programme


The first year of the programme consists of five papers. Like the other flavours of the degree, the primary focus is on storytelling. But this is really a course that is looking to the future: The traditional means of communicating (through print, film, video and the like) are being challenged rapidly. It's a digital world now, where "the tube" has been usurped by "You Tube," where books have become overtaken by blogs. If we are to communicate science to the public, especially its younger members, then we must go where the eyes are. This course, then, is largely about how to leverage new means of communication to popularize science, especially those that exist in the digital realm.

The required papers are:
  • SCOM 402 The craft of storytelling
  • SCOM 406 Communicating Science
  • SCOM 495 Thesis Preparation and Proposal - Development of a film and thesis proposal
Two papers are required from:
  • SCOM 403 Science and Creative Nonfiction Writing
  • SCOM 404 Internship
  • SCOM 419 Special Topics: Critical & Creative Thinking in Science Communication

Second Year of the Programme


It's crucial that we are not simply observers of changing public trends in the ways information is gathered and traded - we must be practitioners too. We must discern new methods of communicating science. We must elucidate best practice. We must be as inventive as…well…scientists. And, in the process, we expect you to come up with some marvellous new way of communicating science. It could be a website, a neon display, an interactive game, a Second Life, a fourth dimension: we have the technology and the possibilities are only limited by your imagination - which is what this course aims to set free.