Course description
NOTE: This course is in phase-out mode and is no longer accepting applications for admission.
Current students needing assistance with course planning for completion of the course requirements should contact the Arts & Music Student Centre.
The Master of Arts (Science, Communication and Society) provides students with theoretical and practical skills in science communication and an advanced understanding of the social, ethical, political and human dimensions of public and community responses to science and technology. It is designed specifically for recent graduates and professionals who seek employment, or are employed, in areas of media, law, research, business or the public sector where the communication of scientific and technical knowledge is an essential component of their work. Graduate should be qualified to work as science communicators/knowledge brokers in diverse areas of employment. Students who discontinue the course after completing 50 points of History & Philosophy subjects may be eligible for the award of postgraduate certificate. Students who discontinue the course after completing 100 points of History & Philosophy subjects (including the thesis) may be eligible for the award of postgraduate diploma.
Objectives:
Students who successfully complete the MA (Science, Communication and Society) should:
* demonstrate an understanding of the theory and practice of communication and the role of the media;
* demonstrate theoretical and practical competence in the use of media and communication across cultures of expertise;
* engage in applied study and sustained analysis of aspects of communicating science and technology in different media and across cultural divides;
* demonstrate an informed awareness of the social, political and human dimensions involved in communication scientific and technical knowledge;
* demonstrate critical understanding of the public understanding of science, technology and risk;
* demonstrate an understanding of lay critiques, anxieties and resistance to scientific innovation and development;
* demonstrate an understanding of philosophical approaches to science's claims to truth, authority and certainty
Course Structure & Available Subjects: Duration: 1 or 2 years full-time / up to 4 years part-time
100 point program - 100 points at graduate level:
* One compulsory subject
* Three optional HPS subjects at graduate level (compulsory requirement)
* Four additional optional subjects at graduate level
150 point program - Up to 50 points at level 4 and at least 100 points at graduate level:
* One compulsory subject
* Three optional HPS subjects (compulsory requirement)
* Eight additional optional subjects
* Seven of the Eleven optional subjects must be at graduate level
200 point program - Up to 100 points at 400-level and at least 100 points at graduate level:
* One compulsory subject
* Three optional HPS subjects (compulsory requirement)
* Twelve additional optional subjects
* Seven of the Fifteen optional subjects must be at graduate level
