Science Journalism

The Boston University Science Journalism program is a comprehensive graduate degree designed to prepare students for dynamic careers in the communication and dissemination of scientific knowledge. This program provides students with a solid foundation in both the core principles of journalism and the specialized skills required to accurately interpret and convey complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, hands-on training, and practical experience, students learn how to craft compelling stories that inform, educate, and engage the public about the latest developments in science, technology, and health.

The curriculum covers a wide array of topics, including investigative reporting, data journalism, multimedia storytelling, and digital media production, equipping students with the technical skills needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced media environment. Additionally, students gain an in-depth understanding of various scientific disciplines, including biology, medicine, environmental science, and technology, ensuring that they are well-versed in the subject matter they will cover. The program emphasizes ethical reporting practices, critical thinking, and the importance of accuracy in science communication, preparing graduates to serve as trusted sources of scientific information.

Students benefit from faculty who are experienced journalists, scientists, and media professionals, providing mentorship and industry connections that facilitate career development. Practical learning experiences are integrated throughout the program, including internships, field reporting, and participation in real-world projects. The Boston University Science Journalism program aims to produce versatile graduates capable of working across multiple media platforms—from print and broadcast to digital and social media—addressing the needs of a rapidly evolving information landscape. Whether pursuing careers in media outlets, scientific institutions, public outreach, or academia, graduates leave the program equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding necessary to excel in science communication and influence public understanding of science and innovation.

First Semester

• COM JO 705 Science Unbound
• COM JO 723 Science Newswriting
• COM JO 724 Science Narrative One
• COM JO 741 Multimedia for Science Communication

Second Semester

• COM JO 702 Science Narrative Two
• COM JO 732 Conflict and Commentary in Science Reporting
• COM JO 881 Broadcast Science News
• COM JO 743 Web Magazine (2 cr)
• COM JO 742 Computer-Assisted Boot Camp (2 cr)
• Elective—suggested courses: Advanced Radio, Advanced Photojournalism, or a graduate-level course in history and philosophy of science or public health (4 cr)

Summer

Students will maintain part-time status during their final, summer semester. Part-time status will affect student loans.

• COM JO 754S A1 Science Journalism Internship (4 cr)

Requirements

• The online application form
• $95 application fee
• Transcripts for all prior university studies (unofficial copies, uploaded to the application)
• Three (3) letters of recommendation
• Official GRE general scores
• A personal statement. Write an essay explaining why you want to study science journalism. Include your personal experiences, what you expect to be doing professionally five years from now, what you expect from a career in the field, why you chose the BU College of Communication and how you expect your studies to help you in achieving your goals. Limited to 750 words.
• A resume or CV
• Students who received their undergraduate degree from a non-English speaking institution must also take the TOEFL or IELTS. Applicants must receive a minimum score of 100 (TOEFL) or 7.0 (IELTS) for their application to be reviewed. We must receive an official score by our deadline; we recommend taking your TOEFL/IELTS at least 20 days prior to our deadline to assure that we receive the score.
• A completed, signed International Student Data Form or International Applicant Coversheet
• Copy of the personal information page of your current passport
• Copies of all current visas, if applicable
• Financial support documentation (Sponsorship Certification and Bank Statement)
• Periodicals. Discuss any websites, magazines, blogs, newspapers or other periodicals that you read regularly. What do you think of them? What is your favorite book, and who is your favorite author? How has she/he influenced your life and future plans? In a separate section, please include what social media you use (if any), and how you could apply that medium to your future profession
• Communication Experience. Write an appraisal in clear declarative English of your experience in any area of communication (if any). Include what you expect from a career in the field and why you chose to enter it.
• International Applicants (non-US citizens): Video Requirement. All international students (non-US citizens) must submit a one to three-minute video. State your name and your intended degree program.

Answer each of the following questions:

1. How do you plan to advance your community as a result of your study in the field of communication?
2. Discuss a significant person in your life and describe the ways in which you have been influenced (positively/negatively and why).
3. If you were to describe where you grew up to someone who hadn’t visited there before, what would you highlight?

How to add your International Student Video to the application?

• Please speak directly into the camera, without reading from a script and do not use video editing or sound voiceover software.
• The video must be in your own words.
• Please post your video on a video hosting website, Vimeo. We prefer if you do not use a password to protect your video. If you must use a password, please use terrier2017.
• International students’ applications cannot be reviewed without this video.

Scholarships

• Global Education
• Merit-Based Aid
• University-Wide Merit Aid

The Master of Science in Science Journalism at Boston University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers as professional science journalists. The program emphasizes developing strong storytelling skills, a solid understanding of scientific concepts, and the ability to communicate complex information to diverse audiences. Students gain practical experience through multimedia projects, internships, and collaborations with research institutions, enabling them to produce compelling news articles, features, and reports across various media platforms. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including health, environment, technology, and biomedical sciences, ensuring graduates are well-versed in current scientific issues and trends. The program also offers specialized training in digital journalism, data visualization, and investigative reporting to adapt to the evolving media landscape. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including editing suites and multimedia production studios. The faculty comprises experienced journalists, scientists, and media professionals dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a collaborative learning environment. Boston University’s location in Boston, a hub for scientific research and innovation, provides students with numerous opportunities for networking, internships, and field reporting. Graduates of the program have successfully established careers in major news organizations, science publications, and communication offices, contributing to public understanding of science and technology. The program is designed for individuals with a background in science, journalism, or related fields who aspire to bridge the gap between scientific communities and the public through expert storytelling. The university also supports continued professional development and alumni engagement through workshops, seminars, and industry connections. Overall, the Boston University Master of Science in Science Journalism offers a rigorous and dynamic education aimed at cultivating the next generation of influential science communicators.