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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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    Faculty

    • Faculty of Graduate Studies

  • icon award

    Credential

    • Micro-diploma in Science Communication

  • icon graduate

    Expected duration

    • 6 credit hours

  • icon pathway

    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 B in both courses will qualify for this credential: 

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

IMMU 7000 Science Communication: Foundations & Writing Methodologies

In IMMU 7000 Science Communication: Foundations & Writing Methodologies, students delve into the art of effectively communicating scientific concepts to diverse audiences. Through a comprehensive exploration of topics such as the intricacies of science communication, understanding audience dynamics, and crafting compelling narratives, participants gain valuable insights into engaging with the public, policymakers, and beyond.

With a focus on practical application, hands-on activities form a cornerstone of the course. From preparing written explainers and news briefs to mastering the art of crafting impactful press releases, students hone their communication skills in real-world scenarios. Additionally, opportunities to engage directly with policymakers and assess readability indices further enhance their ability to convey complex ideas with clarity and precision.

Moreover, IMMU 7000 Science Communication: Foundations Foundations & Writing Methodologies addresses crucial issues such as equity, diversity, and inclusion in science communication, as well as combating misinformation and pseudoscience. By confronting relentless enemies of science head-on and exploring the intersection of activism and celebrity culture, students are equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of science communication with confidence and integrity.

Through this interdisciplinary approach, IMMU 7000 Science Communication: Foundations Foundations & Writing Methodologies empowers future leaders to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and public understanding, fostering a more informed and engaged society.

Examples of topics treated:

  • The process of communicating science
  • Understanding the different types of audience
  • Engaging through specific narrative, storytelling
  • How to write an Op-ED
  • Chasing the ghost
  • Communicating science & policies makers
  • Equity diversity and inclusion in science communication
  • Relentless Enemies of Sciences and activism and fake news in science, pseudoscience and celebrity

Examples of hands-on activities:

  • Preparing a written explainer
  • Preparing news brief
  • Preparing a press release
  • Talk to the Minister
  • Readability index

IMMU 7010 Science Communication: Audio-Video Methodologies

In IMMU 7010 Science Communication: Audio-Video Methodologies, students embark on a captivating journey through the myriad channels of science communication, exploring the diverse mediums that shape public perception and understanding of scientific concepts. Through a comprehensive curriculum, participants delve into topics ranging from the psychology behind belief in fake news to the art of captivating audiences through radio, television, and documentaries.

One of the highlights of the course is the exploration of visual storytelling, where students discover the power of photography and imagery in conveying complex scientific ideas with clarity and impact. Moreover, insights into science communication within interactive spaces such as science centers and museums offer a unique perspective on engaging diverse audiences.

IMMU 7010 Science Communication: Audio-Video Methodologies also delves into the intersection of art and science, examining how creative mediums such as comics can be harnessed to communicate scientific principles in innovative and accessible ways. Additionally, the course explores the role of social media in science communication and equips students with practical strategies for leveraging these platforms effectively.

Through hands-on activities such as podcast recording and editing, media interviews, and crafting engaging 3MT presentations, students hone their communication skills in real-world contexts. Furthermore, practical workshops on photography and science outreach activities for K-12 audiences provide invaluable opportunities for students to put theory into practice.

By embracing the dynamic landscape of science communication, IMMU 7010 Science Communication: Audio-Video Methodologies empowers students to become adept communicators across various mediums, fostering a deeper connection between science and society. Through these interdisciplinary approaches, students emerge equipped to engage, inspire, and educate audiences of all backgrounds and ages.

Examples of topics treated:

  • Why do we believe in fake news?
  • Communicating science on the radio
  • Communicating science on TV and documentaries
  • Photography and pictures for science communication
  • Communicating science at science centers and museums
  • Art and Science
  • Comics in Science Communication
  • Social media and science communication 
  • Science outreach activities for K-12

Examples of hands-on activities:

  • Recording and editing a podcast and videocast
  • Speak and listen more spontaneously
  • Media interview & effective
  • Tips and working on 3MT presentation
  • Taking the perfect photo
  • Science RendezVous 

In the tab below, students share about their experience in the Micro-Diploma in Science Communication program.

Student testimonials

‘’The Micro-diploma course in Science Communication has surpassed all my expectations. Not only did it enrich my understanding of the intricate relationship between science and society, but it also provided me with invaluable practical experiences that I’ll carry with me forever. A standout moment was our hands-on photography and science communication workshop at the museum.

There, I learned how to capture the essence of scientific concepts through the lens of a camera, translating complex ideas into compelling visual stories. The museum setting brought science to life in a way that textbooks simply cannot. This course has not only honed my skills but also ignited a passion for sharing the beauty of science with the world. I am incredibly grateful for this experience and highly recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their science communication skills."

Folayemi Olayinka-Adefemi
PhD, Immunology
Max Rady College of Medicine 

"Being a graduate student in a PhD program, I had a hard time breaking down my research in simple, jargon-free terms to make science accessible to all. Recent times also made me appreciate the need for filling the gap between scientists and general audience. This is where the Micro-Diploma in Science Communication has been an extremely effective and engaging learning experience. 

The Micro-Diploma course exposed me to various written methodologies of science communication. We also dived into the world of audio and video science communication. The classes are full of useful information given by experts in the field with lots of hands-on experience. From News Briefs, Op-eds to Radios and Podcasts, we learnt about portraying science in different mediums. This course has made me so much more confident in my science communication skills and I would highly recommend it anyone wanting to make science easy to understand for a broader audience."

Meher Kantroo
PhD student
College of Pharmacy

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) July 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