Science Communication ,Minor
Content Strategy, Public Engagement, Public Relations, Risk Assessment, Social media, Strategic Management, media, technical writing
Bridge the gap between science and society. You'll learn to make complex scientific ideas clear, accessible and meaningful --- developing the skills to communicate science effectively across media and community contexts.
If you are in STEM, communication, or any field where you want to improve public understanding of science and strengthen engagement between science and society, the minor program in science communication is designed for you.
Scientific challenges such as climate change and public health demand more effective communication. This program provides you with research-based strategies and practical skills in storytelling, content creation, strategy, public engagement and community relations to help bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public impact.
You 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 you to become a leader in science communication, policy, education and advocacy.
This program complements a range of undergraduate majors as it seeks to transform society through use-inspired, inclusive and impactful research.
- College/school:
New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
- Location: West Valley
2026-2027 Catalog Year
| Requirement | Minimum Grade | Credit Hours |
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| Requirement | Minimum Grade | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
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The minor in science communication consists of 15 credit hours of upper-division coursework. A minimum of six upper-division credit hours must be earned through courses offered by the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences. Credit hours may not be shared between major and minor requirements. All courses used to satisfy requirements for the minor must be completed with a grade of "C" (2.00 on a 4.00 scale) or better. |
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COM 328 Communicating Science
3 Credit Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
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C | 3 |
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COM 414 Crisis Communication
or
COM 415 Risk Communication
(SOBE)
3 Credit Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
|
C | 3 |
|
COM 472 Science Public Relations
3 Credit Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
|
C | 3 |
|
A maximum of three hours of COM 484 Internship may be applied toward this requirement.
6 Credit Hours
Minimum
Grade:C
|
C | 6 |
|
Prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this minor.
|
GPA Requirement: None
Incompatible Majors: BA in science communication
Other Enrollment Requirements: None
Current ASU undergraduate students may pursue a minor and have it recognized on their ASU transcript at graduation. Minor requirements appear on the degree audit once the minor is added. Certain major and minor combinations may be deemed inappropriate by the college or department of either the major program or the minor. Courses taken for the minor may not count toward both the major and minor.
Graduates are prepared to communicate science effectively across sectors, helping organizations bridge the gap between research and public impact. This minor 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.
Students may pursue roles as communication professionals or apply their skills in interdisciplinary careers. They can find themselves in leadership in roles such as communications manager, outreach coordinator, program manager or public affairs officer. Graduates are prepared to address global challenges like climate change, pandemics and disinformation.
Career examples include:
- extension specialist
- health marketing specialist
- media relations officer
- museum educator
- policy analyst
- public information officer
- public relations specialist
- research translation officer
- scientific content creator
- science communication specialist
- science writer
School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
|
FAB N101
sbsadvising@asu.edu
602-543-3000
Program term definitions
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