Postgraduate Certificate in Science Communication (PGCertSciComm)

Course details

Postgraduate Certificate in Science Communication (PGCertSciComm)
NZQF Level	8

About the course

The need for effective and powerful science communication is greater than ever. Our course is very practical and applied, with a special focus on creative nonfiction science writing. Our students tend to be those whose passions and talents lie between the sciences and creative practice.One of the great things about Science Communication is that it is deeply interdisciplinary, weaving together engaging content from STEM areas to the social sciences to the arts and humanities.There are no subject prerequisites for course entry.If you who aspire to work in science communication, our course teaches core skills in:Putting science communication theory into creative practiceWriting engaging science-based story content for a general audienceMultimedia such as infographics, podcasts, and mobile filmmakingPitching to media and literary agents, drafting professional proposalsRunning idea-based events and exhibitionsTaught entirely by distance, our asynchronous course is tailored to suit busy, working professionals. The PGCertSciComm (3 papers) can be done part-time or full-time as an “at-your-own-pace” programme.To enable students to develop their skills and interests through real-world work experience, the course offers a popular internship paper with a range of professional partners.Learn more about our professional partnerships and interships In addition to teaching creative thinkers how to use stories to communicate the science they are most passionate about, our innovative papers are built on the latest scholarly theory in the science of science communication and examine how people consume and use scientific information.Our instructors are not only academics engaged in scientific research, they are also leading figures in the science communication industry, with commercially successful, award-winning popular science books and bylines in major magazines and media outlets such as The New York Times, Scientific American, and The New Zealand Herald.

Entry requirements

Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Sciences), on the advice of the Director of the Centre for Science Communication.

Every applicant shall either

have been admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Science; or
have alternative qualifications acceptable to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).

About the provider

The University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in New Zealand, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation.

Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves.

The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents.