Science Communication (Graduate Certificate)
Communication, Content, Creation, Public Engagement, Public Relations, Risk, Science, Science Communication, Social media, Strategic, media
This program has a fee pending ABOR approval.
Gain the tools to make complex science understandable to everyone. This certificate empowers you to engage diverse audiences, influence public discourse and elevate the impact of scientific research. Whether you're in the lab, the field or the policy arena, you can advance your communication skills to drive real-world change and connect science with society.
The graduate certificate program in science communication is designed for STEM students and professionals who want to improve public understanding of science and strengthen engagement between science and society.
Scientific challenges such as climate change, public health and misinformation demand more effective communication. This program provides students with research-based strategies and practical skills in storytelling, media relations and community dialogue to help bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding. Students learn to communicate complex ideas clearly, foster public trust in science, and address the social implications of scientific work. The program combines communication theory with hands-on training, preparing students to become leaders in science outreach, policy, education and advocacy.
This certificate program complements a range of graduate programs and aims to transform society through use-inspired, inclusive and impactful research.
GI Bill® benefits
This new program is not yet approved for use with GI Bill® benefits.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/.
- College/school:
New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
- Location: West Valley
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: No
Required Core (15 credit hours) Students select two of the following courses:
CMN 520 Communication Campaigns (3)
CMN 571 Science, Media and Society (3)
CMN 572 Science Public Relations (3)
CMN 573 Digital Media for Science Communication (3)
CMN 574 Public Engagement with Science (3)
CMN 575 Risk and Crisis Communication: Theory and Practice (3)
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
U.S.
applicants | International
applicants | English
proficiency
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences.
Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in business, communication or STEM-related fields from a regionally accredited institution.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
Applicants are required to submit:
- graduate admissions application and application fee
- official transcripts
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of current residency by scoring at least 4 on the Internet-based TOEFL (iBT)®, or a score of 80 if taken before January 21, 2026 in a testing center; 6.5 on the IELTS; or 105 on the Duolingo English test.
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | In Person | Rolling |
Graduates are prepared to communicate science effectively across sectors, helping organizations bridge the gap between research and public understanding. This certificate enhances career prospects in science, health, policy and media and gives STEM professionals a competitive edge through strong communication skills --- one of the most valued yet underdeveloped competencies in the workforce.
Graduates may pursue roles as communication professionals or apply their skills in interdisciplinary careers. The certificate program prepares graduates to address global challenges like climate change, pandemics and disinformation.
Career examples include:
- communications manager
- health communication strategist
- media relations officer
- outreach coordinator
- policy analyst
- program manager
- public affairs officer
- public relations specialist
- research translation officer
- science communication specialist
- scientific content creator
School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
|
FAB N101
NCGradAdvising@asu.edu
602-543-3000
Admission deadlines
Program term definitions
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.
