The master’s specialisation Physics and Science Communication and Society focuses on the interaction between science and society.

What does this master’s programme entail?

Increasingly, the general public wants to be and needs to be informed about scientific topics. At the same time, scientists need to show accountability to the general public about their research. In this specialisation you bridge the gap between experts and the public by combining high quality research in physics with extensive training in science communication. After completion you have obtained the necessary knowledge and skills to either become science communicator with a strong physics background, or a physics researcher with a communicating mindset.

Do you want to bridge the gap between scientific research and the public? Do you want to combine high quality physics research with professional science communication? Then, this master's specialisation is an excellent opportunity for you. You will be prepared for a career as a science or health communicator, policy maker, PR officer, science journalist, health officer, museum educator or a researcher with a communicating mindset.

Programme Overview

The SCS courses train you in practical and theoretical aspects of science communication. Internships help you decide whether you want to choose a career in science communication or Physics research.

The entire MSc programme in combination with the Science Communication and Society (SCS) specialisation consists of two components:

• Physics component (60 – 80 EC)
• Science communication and Society component (40 – 60 EC)

The 2-year programme consists of a Physics component, to be followed in the first year, and a Science Communication and Society component, followed in the second year. The Physics component of the SCS specialisation includes mandatory courses (15 EC), a research project (36 EC) and electives (9 EC). The science communication component of the specialisation includes coursework, internship(s) and research proposal.

Preferably, you follow the Physics component during the first year of the programme and the SCS component during the second year.

Career prospects

With an MSc degree in Physics and Science Communication & Society you are well prepared for a broad array of career prospects in research or industry. The master's degree is an excellent preparation for a career at the interface of science and public affairs.

Some examples of career at the interface of science and public affairs are science writer, science policymaker, public relations officer or research scientist with a particular communication skills.

The Master of Science programme also guarantees a thorough research training founded on a sound theoretical basis. You will work in an environment with many internationally renowned researchers and will be able to operate on the international market.

All students with a Master of Science degree are admissible to a PhD programme.