Science has a story, learn how to tell it.

Whether you're pursuing a career in research, health, policy, or public engagement, the ability to communicate science effectively is essential. This program helps you transform complex ideas into meaningful messages that resonate with diverse audiences—and open new professional doors. Science is complex; communicating it shouldn’t be. Follow our hashtag #UMBSciComm across social media platforms for updates about the program.

Details, Dates & Deadlines

Program Details

Class Format

Online

Program Length

9 months

Credits to Complete

12 Credits

Cost/Credit Hour

In State: $769
Out of State: $994

  • Online application
  • $75 application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • 300–500 word essay
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • CV or resume

Dates & Deadlines

Fall deadline: April 15 (Priority)
Fall deadline: July 1 (Final)

  • Asynchronous, 100% Online Format: Designed with working professionals in mind, we offer maximum flexibility. There are no required online meetings or set login times; you can complete coursework on your own schedule, submitting assignments by posted deadlines and engaging with feedback from instructors and peers
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: The 12-credit, four-course structure provides a robust foundation in science communication, covering various strategies, current research, and examples across multiple platforms and modalities, including social media, journalism, and academic publications.
  • Focus on Practical Application: We emphasize hands-on experience, allowing you to apply different science communication strategies and build a portfolio of work that demonstrates your skills and understanding.
  • Commitment to Equity and Inclusion: A distinctive aspect of the program is its dedication to representing diverse voices across all communities involved in science, ensuring that you are prepared to communicate effectively and inclusively in various contexts.
  • Want to see science communication in action? Check out SciComm Spotlight, our monthly column in The Elm Graduate Studies. Written by program faculty, students, and alumni, these pieces highlight timely topics, share real-world experiences, and explore emerging trends in science communication—both on campus and beyond.

 

 

Science plays a critical role in shaping policy, informing public health, and advancing innovation, but its impact depends on how well it’s understood. Studying science communication assists you in bridging the gap between experts and everyday audiences, ensuring that research is not only accurate but also accessible, engaging, and relevant. Our fully online Science Communication Certificate program gives you the tools to share scientific knowledge in ways that foster dialogue, build trust, and drive informed decision-making across disciplines, sectors, and communities.

This program is designed for anyone who wants to communicate science more effectively, whether you're a researcher looking to share your work beyond academic circles, or a professional in communication, education, policy, or outreach who works at the intersection of science and society. If you’re passionate about making scientific ideas more accessible, more engaging, and more inclusive, this program will meet you where you are and help you grow.

 

Throughout the program, you'll engage with a wide mix of materials designed to reflect the real-world landscape of science communication. One key text is Getting to the Heart of Science Communication by Dr. Faith Kearns, a scientist and science communication practitioner whose work on water, wildfire, and climate change has been widely published. Her book offers practical insights into communicating with empathy, especially in challenging or high-stakes conversations. You’ll also dive into articles from academic and popular outlets, podcasts, blogs, social media posts, sample grants, and multimedia resources like YouTube and TikTok. Materials from organizations like the American Academy for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and the American Academy of Arts & Sciences round out a curriculum grounded in both theory and practice.

 

Most students complete the program in just 9 months, starting in the fall and finishing by the end of the spring semester. The program includes four fully online courses designed to fit into a busy professional schedule. While 9 months is typical, you’ll have up to three years to finish if you need to pause or take a leave of absence.

 

Many of our alums work or pursue careers in the communication department of universities, especially those with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM); medical institutions; government agencies; and for-profit companies as well as non-profit research-based institutions. Some of our alums are researchers at different stages in their career who have enrolled in this program to enrich their own communication practice across diverse audiences.

Student Testimonials

 “This program is one of the best career decisions I have ever made.”

-Tawana

“This course helped me grow as a science writer in ways outside of my comfort zone.”

-Marty

“This program’s structure has been different from the typical course set up. By having one class at a time, I was able to focus on select skills at a steady pace. After the completion of the program, I felt prepared to write in any discipline within science whether for an academic audience or the general public.”

-Shaniece 

 

“I found Science Writing Principles one of the most productive courses that I’ve ever taken during my PhD program.”

-Raziyeh  

“I gained transferable skills that will assist me not only with my thesis, but my career as a scientist.”

-Paige  

“I learned writing techniques that I honestly wish I knew back in undergrad and even in high school.”

-Makeda 

Science Communication

Admissions

Nina Jackson
Admissions Counselor 
nina.jackson@umaryland.edu 
410.706.6489

 

Academics

Isabell C. May, Ph.D
Program Director
imay@umaryland.edu 
410.706.4450

                                                                        

Next Steps

Your path to success starts here