This course is intended or those involved in public science outreach and/or engagement activities in any sector. The course addresses both high-level strategic aspects and hands-on practical skills.
Public Science Communication
Overview
| Module Code | BMOL50070 |
| Module Title | Public Science Communications |
| Subject Area | Science / Society |
| Credits | 5 |
| NFQ | 9 |
| EFQ | |
| Start Date | 20th January 2026 |
| Duration | 12 Weeks |
| Time | Fortnightly, each Tuesday 11AM-1PM (TBC) |
| Mode of Delivery | Blended |
| Course Leader | Dr. Craig Slattery |
| Fee | Full Fee: €768.75 |
| Application Deadline | Register your interest for the next intake: (opens in a new window)microcredentials@ucd.ie |
This micro-credential is intended for people wishing to develop their own communications skills to a broad range of audiences, with specific emphasis on effective communication of scientific information and research findings.
The course consists of 6 2-hour, science communication workshops delivered by experienced science communicators, science journalists and professional presentation coaches.
On completion of the course, participants will be able to:
- Outline the importance of communicating science to non-specialist audiences
- Describe different approaches for communicating complex scientific information to non-specialist audiences
- Critically assess science communication strategies
- Explain the impact of information and misinformation on the public, governments and policy makers
- Communicate their own research to a public audience in an accessible and engaging manner
Learners will develop their own core communication skills, whilst also developing strategic understanding of strategies for public science communication initiatives.
This micro-credential is delivered through the UCD online learning platform (Brightspace) and will consist of lectures/seminars (available online), critical reflection, and learner presentations.
A repository of resources will be available to support your learning, and as a UCD student, you will have full access to the library.
This is a 5 ECTS micro-credential and involves approximately 108 hours of learner effort.
Student Effort Hours:
| Student Effort Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 18 |
| Small Group | 5 |
| Specified Learning Activities | 30 |
| Autonomous Student Learning | 55 |
| Total | 108 |
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Workshops
External Speakers
Online Materials
Group Work
Applicants must hold a degree in science, engineering, medicine, nursing or another relevant discipline. An upper second-class honours Level 8 degree (GPA 3.08), or international equivalent is required.
Applications will also be accepted from those with significant, relevant, practical experience or those with a graduate qualification relevant to the micro-credential.
Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proof of English proficiency as per UCD's minimum English language requirements.
All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Written Assignment – 30%
Presentation – 40%
AV project – 40%
Written/recorded feedback will be provided for written assignments. Written feedback will be provided for presentations / projects.
If you have any questions about this micro-credential, or would like to speak to a UCD staff member, please contact (opens in a new window)microcredentials@ucd.ie.