Science Communication Undergraduate Minor

To address the grand challenges facing communities at scales from local to global, graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields must be equipped to be effective communicators, critical thinkers, problem solvers, and leaders. In addition, employers are increasingly looking for STEM graduates to possess these 21st century competencies.

The minor in science communication offered by the Department of Communication is available to undergraduate students interested in developing their understanding of and abilities in communicating science to public audiences. It is open to students in all undergraduate majors on campus who want to deepen and broaden their knowledge of how citizens make sense of science and technology in their everyday lives. Required coursework totals 15 credit hours, including:

(1) COM 289, an overview course that introduces major issues in contemporary debates about science communication and public engagement,

(2) 9 credits of free electives that allow students to develop their communication skills and further understanding of communication processes and practices, and

(3) a capstone course that engages students on more advanced topics such as climate change, risk communication, environmental communication, and others.

For more information

Consult the complete program description.

Contact Dr. Andrew Binder, advisor for the minor.