Master of Science in Science Communication
Good science needs good communication.
When you master effective communication, you can effectively advocate for valid, reliable science and help others engage with the discoveries that can make life better for all of us.
Help bring science out of labs and libraries and into the world.
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Office Hours
Every Wednesday at 5 pm EST
Except 12/21 and 12/28
Stop by our virtual office hours to speak with a representative from the School of Communication and Journalism.
Passcode: 737498
Request Info
Complete our Inquiry Form to learn more about our graduate programs. Or, you can send us an email.
Meet our Faculty
Our faculty include some of the leading science communication researchers and practitioners in the country.
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Application Materials
CV or Resume
Transcripts
3.0 GPA and a bachelor's degree in a STEM, social science, or health-related field,
OR commensurate experience
Personal Statement
500 words
2 Communication Samples
Academic and/or creative; written, audio or visual formats accepted
3 Letters of Recommendation
TOEFL scores
Required for international applicants
GRE scores
Optional
Deadlines
Early Decision:
March 1
International Students:
March 1
Extended:
April 15
Domestic applicants only
A 33-Credit, Online Master's Program
As a grad student, you will be able to
- Share scientific discoveries in ways that resonate with diverse audiences
- Conduct empirical, social science research
- Design and test audience-centered messages for face-to-face and mediated platforms
- Support diversity and inclusion through communication
- Contribute to high quality, professional projects
Designed for researchers, engineers, mathematicians, and others with backgrounds in science, the MS in Science Communication empowers experts to combine subject-matter knowledge with evidence-based communication practices. Our program is offered in collaboration with the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science, the national leader in science communication research and practice.
Your degree, on your time
Earn your science communication degree as a full-time or part-time student, from wherever you are.
Students will spend one weekend at the start of their graduate program at Stony Brook's campus on Long Island, New York. In that one weekend, you will experience the unique Alda Method of science communication, meet your peers and faculty in person, and set the stage for an enriching and deeply connected graduate program.
Help build bridges between science and society
As a science communication professional, you will help to connect ground-breaking research and life-altering discoveries to society - through policy, media, and culture - using effective, accurate, and ethical communication.
You will work with interdisciplinary faculty to engage in this growing and vital field.
Required Courses
18 credits
Communication Research Methods - COM 516
Building and Assessing Communication Strategies - COM 526
Communicating your Science - COM 565
Communication Law & Ethics - COM 577
Graduate Internship - COM 588
Master's Project in Science Communication - COM 699
Elective Courses
15 credits
Choose from among a variety of courses, including:
Communicating Science to Decision Makers - COM 522
Communicating your Science using Digital Media - COM 534
Special Topics in Science Communication - COM 575
Principles of Inclusive Engagement - JRN 583
Communicating Science & Health Risks to the Public - COM 585
Environmental Communication - COM 605
Data Analysis & Storytelling - COM 615