MA in Science Journalism

City University London

“The role of a science journalist is to investigate, inquire and reveal the process of science to the public. It is not merely to publicise new findings on behalf of the scientist or to communicate new research. Journalism involves the ability to contextualise, interpret and not just to describe. Science deserves scrutiny: that’s the job of the science journalist.”

- Connie St. Louis, Director of City’s MA in Science Journalism

The Science Journalism MA at City University London has an outstanding reputation for producing graduates who understand the role of science journalism. Like many of the other Journalism School’s graduates they are highly employable. They find jobs in areas of science journalism that include medical, environmental, technological and scientific reporting.

You will benefit from:

1. Enhanced job prospects
Graduates of the Science Journalism MA are now working in a variety of organisations including:
• BBC Radio
• BBC TV
• Bionews
• CERN
• ClimateWire, US
• Cranfield Institute of Technology
• Euro RSCG Life Medicom
• Global Trade Media
• ITV
• Men’s Health
• National Geographic Green
• World Health Organisation.

2. Academic staff experienced in science and journalism
The course is led by award-winning ex-BBC leading science journalist Connie St. Louis, who is currently the chair of the Association of British Science Writers.

Other course tutors include:

• Ed Yong, science writer and blogger
• Henry Scowcroft, Cancer Research UK
• John Battle, head of compliance at ITN
• Dr Toby Murcott, science writer and broadcaster
• Prof Roy Greenslade, media commentator and ex-Editor of the Daily Mirror
• Prof Paul Bradshaw, online journalist and blogger.

3. Multimedia experience
The MA is fully multimedia and makes full use of the journalism school’s digital studios and newsrooms. It provides a range of opportunities to report on science, health, environment, technology and food. Throughout the course students produce a website ‘Elements’, write blogs ‘Health Media Watch’, ‘Science Media Watch’, manage several Twitter feeds and a Facebook page.

4. London location
The course is enhanced by its central London location by being able to draw on the capital’s scientific, medical and journalistic institutions, which helps to forge links, build contact networks and gives unrivalled access to leading experts

Key facts
• Duration: 10 months full-time
• Cost (full-time)*: £8,700 for UK/EU students, £17,300 for non-UK/EU students

*Fees listed are for 2011/12. Fees for 2012/13 will be listed on our website in due course.

Entry requirements
You should have at least a good second-class degree in any subject. Considerations will also be given to mature applicants with substantial work experience in science or medicine.
You should also have some relevant work experience in journalism (which might include work on a university/college publication) or work experience in either science, environmental or medical journalism.

Contact us by emailing journalism@city.ac.uk or calling +44 (0)20 7040 8574.

Closing date: 1 September 2012