Science Communication

Science communicators use tools and techniques to communicate complex scientific knowledge and concepts and work with many audiences.

Learn about science and the scientific process and develop knowledge of science communication theory and practical skills. Become proficient working with a range of communication tools and techniques, and develop the ability to craft – write and edit non-fiction pieces, as well as edit and critique the work of others. As a graduate, you will understand a range of worldviews and societal perspectives, the factors that influence the communication of scientific information, and the part science and mātauranga Māori play in society.

Roles and career pathways

As a Science Communication graduate, you could use your skills in any organisation where science and technology topics need to be communicated. You could work as a:

• communications or media adviser
• policy adviser
• creative non-fiction or science writer
• content developer
• training facilitator
• outreach coordinator
• education adviser
• learning designer
• event manager
• campaign organiser

You may be studying a complementary science or humanities and social sciences subject to better understand the scientific, technological, social, and cultural contexts of your diverse audiences.

Postgraduate study, such as a Master of Communication or Master of Science in Society, could also lead to a career in policy analysis, tertiary teaching, or research.

Where Science Communication graduates work

Science Communication graduates could work for media companies, education, learning media, web development, and design or technology companies, government, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), especially environmental agencies and research institutes.

Examples of these kinds of organisations could be:

• Forest & Bird
• Manatū Mo Te Taiao—Ministry for the Environment
• NIWA— Taihoro Nukurangi
• Pāremata Aotearoa —Parliamentary Service
• Te Apārangi—Royal  Society
• Te Herenga Waka —Victoria University of Wellington
• Te Papa  Atawhai—Department of Conservation

Build relevant skills and experience

During the course of your programme you will build a portfolio of written work that you will be able to use to showcase your skills to employers.

Experiences such as internships, part-time work, and volunteering all help to increase your career options. Programmes such as Wellington Plus and Wellington International Leadership Programme (WILP) offer opportunities to gain diverse volunteer and leadership experience. Volunteering as the communications/marketing/social media adviser for a university club will also help you gain relevant experience.

Internships can be offered by media, policy, and social change organisations. The WFHSS Internship course run by the Wellington Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences helps develop skills and provides practical workplace experience. For more information about internships and how to make the most of your opportunity, see Internships. Current internship vacancies can be found on NZUni Talent.

Make career connections

Professional bodies provide students and graduates with the opportunity to make contacts, keep up to date with current industry knowledge, and learn more about specific areas of interest. Some options include: