Course Summary
The world has changed dramatically since the arrival of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus in late 2019. Never before has it been so crucial to have skilled science communicators presenting technical information accurately and engagingly, while also organising and managing the flows of communication within and across the complex new crises we face on this planet. While there are fears of misinformation to be addressed, it is also crucial to engage society to participate in scientific research, and to make science more accessible and inclusive. Traditional political and community forums, online platforms, vlogs, broadcast news, social media, conferences, seminars, policy briefings and even science fiction are just some of the ways we can address both the scientific and the social issues associated with climate change, pandemics, future and emerging technologies, and the science of the world around us.
The MSc in Science and Health Communication will not only explore these and emerging forums for science communication, but will also examine the best methods to communicate scientific information effectively to the many different groups within society.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
For admission to the MSc in Science and Health Communication programme, successful applicants will have -
A degree at the level of an Irish or UK Honours undergraduate degree (H2.2 or above) or equivalent
Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered. This includes discipline-specific knowledge and know-how; transferable skills; basic research competency; personal effectiveness.
International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language. More information about the English language requirements for DCU's School of Communications.
Application Details
Application Deadlines
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the programme is full or until the following dates:
Closing date for non EU applicants is 1st July 2025.
Closing date for EU applicants is 30th August 2025.
Note applicants who require a study visa for the purposes of studying at DCU, are advised to apply as early as possible.
All entry requirements should be met before the commencement of the programme.
Application Queries
For EU applicant queries, please visit https://www.dcu.ie/registry/eu-postgraduate-taught-admissions or email [email protected]
For non EU applicant queries, please visit https://www.dcu.ie/registry/international-admissions-undergraduate-and-postgraduate or email [email protected]
To apply for this programme:
Provide Academic Transcripts for each and every year of study with English translation if applicable.
If applicable, evidence of competence in the English language as per DCU entry requirements. Please see link http://www.dcu.ie/registry/english.shtml.
The programme commences in September 2025
Fees
Full time
EU Status Fee €7,900
Non EU Fee €17,000
Part time
EU Status Fee Part-time €4,300 Per Annum
Non EU Fee Part time €8,300 Per Annum
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Career Progression
Graduates of this programme have found employment in science public relations and information services, science journalism, science broadcasting, science teaching, science demonstration and display, science publishing, web editing for science institutions and educational software authoring.