Adviser: Dr. Mary Nucci ( mnucci@sebs.rutgers.edu)

Program Webpage: http://sciencecommunication.rutgers.edu/index.html

Program Description

The minor in science communication recognizes the pressing need in our technologically-based society to understand and communicate science issues personally and professionally. Students in the minor will learn how to access, understand, and communicate evidence-based science information in the context of real-world problems. After completing the minor, students will be better prepared to understand and address the issues in communicating science effectively.

Learning Goals

After completing the program students will be able to:

1. recognize the need for understanding science and the scientific process for evidence-based decision-making;
2. make the connection between science and social science expertise on science communication;
3. realize alternative potentials/venues for careers postgraduation;
4. communicate effectively for careers in medical, dental, veterinary, nursing, or allied health fields;
5. effectively convey science information to the general public as well as to scientists; and
6. describe the role of science and scientists in society.

Required Courses (9 credits)

Environment and Health in Society and Mass Media (Human Ecology) 11:374:225
Risk, Health, and Safety (Human Ecology) 11:374:430
Communication in the Life Sciences (Human Ecology) 11:374:435

Elective Minor Courses (12 credits required)
Full Semester Electives (3 credits each)

Biochemistry
Biochemical Communication 11:115:491

Communication
Science and Health Journalism 04:567:340
Health Communication 04:192:407
Health Literacy 04:192:307
Communication Theory 04:192:200

History
History of Science and Society 01:506:251

Human Ecology
Environmental Communication 11:374:325

Marine and Coastal Studies
Communicating Sciences to Informal Audiences

Nutritional Sciences
Nutrition Communication 11:709:442 (prerequisites: 709:202, 255, 441)

Program in Science Learning
Environmental Education in the School Curriculum 11:300:416
Informal Science Education 11:300:335

Philosophy
Bioethics 01:730:249

Psychology
Social Psychology 01:830:321
Health Psychology 01:830:377

Women and Gender Studies
Gender and Science 01:988:240

Online Courses
Foundations of Program Planning 11:607:401
Building Community Partnerships 11:607:402

Seven-Week Skills Electives (1.5 credit each)
Creating Effective Science Visuals 11:374:240
Science Talks and Posters 11:374:241