Overview

The Science Communication programme at University of California, Santa Cruz is a premier training ground for individuals dedicated to promoting productive civic dialogue on scientific topics. This intensive curriculum prepares students to translate complex research into engaging narratives for diverse audiences. By focusing on accuracy and storytelling, the programme ensures graduates are ready to lead in the evolving media landscape.

Why Science Communication at University of California, Santa Cruz?

This programme is widely recognised as a gem in the field, with an external review noting that its graduates are among the leading science communicators globally. Students benefit from a prestigious reputation and a vast network of successful alumni who occupy influential positions in national science writing boards. The university maintains strong partnerships with elite organisations such as Science, Nature, and KQED, providing students with unparalleled industry connections.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 15102 per year
National fee: USD 15102 per year
Local fee: USD 15924 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to cover all modern forms of media and journalistic techniques. Modules may include:

Science Journalism
Multimedia
Audio and Podcasting
Video
Data Visualisation
Science Writing

Careers with Science Communication

Graduates from this programme frequently secure high-profile roles as science journalists and communicators for world-renowned publications and institutions. Alumni have successfully published work in the New York Times and Chemical Engineering News, covering critical global issues like climate solutions and medical research. The programme prepares students for diverse careers in digital media, podcasting, and editorial leadership within the scientific community.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Reporting science news; writing and editing workshop.

Visual journalism and multimedia instruction

Photography,

Social media and video fundamentals.

Science feature writing;

Multimedia reporting and storytelling.

Investigative and policy reporting; profiles.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-03 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Cruz, United States

Disciplines

Communication Studies Media Studies & Mass Media Digital Media View 504 other Masters in Communication Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

Transcripts

Résumé

A Statement of Purpose is required:

A Personal History Statement is also required:

Degree in science or engineering (i.e. bachelor's, master's, postbacc, PhD)

Academic research or professional experience in your field (six months minimum)

Three to five strong letters of recommendation

English Proficiency

GPA 3.0

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

15102 USD / year

≈ 15102 USD / year
Out-of-State

15102 USD / year

≈ 15102 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

15924 USD / year

≈ 15924 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Cruz

United States

1710 - 2560 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Science Communication.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Cruz

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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