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Micro-Diploma in Science Communication

Learn to communicate scientific research and findings to a non-scientific audience through various media tools, including verbal and written communiqué, social media and virtual/digital messaging, in an engaging, accurate way that enhances confidence in science. The micro-diploma in science communication program covers news briefs, product and science concept descriptions, videos (animated, live-action, etc.), podcasts, comics and public speaking/interviews.

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A student works at a computer in an Immunology lab.
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    Faculty

    • Faculty of Graduate Studies

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    Credential

    • Micro-diploma in Science Communication

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    Expected duration

    • 6 credit hours

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    Program options

    • Standalone

The objective of this micro-diploma is to confer discrete skills and competencies by providing learning opportunities regarding the primary methodologies governing science communication. The goal is to modify the learner’s perception of science communication by improving the creation of knowledge society and representing what science, scientific and science organization are.

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Effective science communication

Science communication bridges the gap between scientific research and the general public. By pursuing a micro-diploma in science communication, students can effectively develop skills and techniques to communicate complex scientific concepts to non-experts. This can help them engage with a broader audience, raise scientific literacy levels, and foster public understanding and appreciation of science. Science communication skills go beyond conveying information. They involve storytelling, visual communication, active listening, and understanding different perspectives. Pursuing a micro-diploma in science communication can enhance a student's communication abilities, critical thinking skills, and ability to distill complex ideas into clear and concise messages. These skills are valuable in various aspects of life, personally and professionally.

Enhance career opportunities

Science communication skills are highly valued in various professional fields. A micro-diploma in science communication can open doors to different career opportunities. Graduates can work as science journalists, science writers, public relations officers for scientific organizations, science educators, museum curators or as part of communication teams in research institutions, government agencies or non-profit organizations. The demand for professionals who can effectively communicate science is increasing, making this field a promising career path.

Promote scientific collaboration

Science is a collaborative endeavour, and effective communication is essential for fostering collaboration among scientists. A micro-diploma in science communication equips students with the skills to communicate their research findings to fellow scientists from different disciplines. Clear and concise communication can facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations, leading to innovative research and problem-solving.

Public engagement and science advocacy

Scientists are responsible for engaging with the public and policymakers to promote evidence-based decision-making and address societal challenges. A micro-diploma in science communication empowers students to communicate science in a way that is accessible, engaging, and relevant to the public. It enables them to advocate for science and participate in public debates, ensuring that a wider audience effectively communicates and understands scientific information.

A laptop displays the Department of Immunology website on a table in a recording studio where microphones and headphones hang over a microscope.
A person wearing a white dress shirt and a blue tie sits at a microphone and laptop reading from a paper script.
A group of three scientists in white lab coats smile and review graphs in a brightly lit white laboratory.
A group of people stand at a Department of Immunology booth talking to graduate program representatives.

Program details

The micro-diploma consists of two courses for a total of 6 credit hours.

Students who successfully complete the following courses with a minimum grade of Bin both courses will qualify for this credential: 

  • IMMU 7000: Science Communication: Foundations & Writing Methodologies
  • IMMU 7010: Science Communication: Audio-Video Methodologies

Admission requirements

The Micro-Diploma in Science Communication is only open to those who are currently registered in the Faculty of Graduate Studies at the University of Manitoba in one of the graduate programs listed in the tab below.

Applicants must be in good standing and achieved a minimum GPA of 3.0 over a 4.5 scale in the last two full years of study.

Eligible graduate programs

Below is a list of eligible graduate programs. Other programs would be considered upon request.

 

  • Agribusiness and Agricultural Economics
  • Animal Science
  • Anthropology
  • Applied Health Sciences
  • Architecture
  • Biochemistry and Medical Genetics
  • Biological Sciences
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Biosystems Engineering
  • Chemistry
  • Collaborative PhD
  • Community Health Sciences
  • Computer Science
  • Design and Planning (Architecture)
  • Disability Studies
  • Entomology
  • Environment and Geography
  • Food Science
  • Genetic Counseling
  • Human Anatomy and Cell Science
  • Human Nutritional Sciences
  • Immunology
  • Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs
  • Kinesiology and Recreation Management
  • Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Native Studies
  • Natural Resources and Environment
  • Natural Resources Institute
  • Nursing
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Oral Biology
  • Orthodontics
  • Pathology
  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Periodontics
  • Pharmacology and Therapeutics
  • Pharmacy
  • Physical Therapy
  • Physician Assistant Studies
  • Physics and Astronomy
  • Physiology and Pathophysiology
  • Plant Science
  • Prosthodontics
  • Psychology
  • Rehabilitation Sciences
  • School Psychology
  • Social Work
  • Social Work - Indigenous Knowledges
  • Soil Science
  • Surgery

How to apply

The program is currently admitting for the Fall term only. Applications must be completed online and include the following components:

Applications open up to 18 months prior to start term.

Canadian, US and international applicants
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) June 1

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated.

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Contact us

Admission and application inquiries

Faculty of Graduate Studies
Room 500 UMSU University Centre
65 Chancellors Circle
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada

graduate.admissions@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-474-9377

Monday to Friday
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program inquiries

Micro-Diploma in Science Communications
Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences
Room 471 Apotex Centre, 750 McDermot Avenue
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0T5 Canada

mdscicom@umanitoba.ca