Public Science Communication

Science is essential to the continued advance of our society, and scientists and other professionals trained in the sciences are increasingly called upon to engage with the public.

The undergraduate certificate in public science communication provides students with training and practical experience in the effective communication of science to general audiences. The certificate is intended for students pursuing undergraduate degrees in science, engineering, and other technical disciplines. It is designed to provide both didactic training and practical, real-world experience. Students who complete the certificate will have demonstrated effective communication skills and will develop a portfolio of their own science communication work. As such, they will be well prepared to engage the public in meaningful ways, helping to stimulate meaningful connections between science and society.

Certificate

• Certificate in Public Science Communication

Public Science Communication does not currently offer an academic program at the graduate level.    

Program Director

Scott Solomon

Steering Committee

Luis Campos
Thomas C. Killian
Douglas Natelson
Kirsten Siebach
Tracy Volz
Jennifer S. Wilson

For Rice University degree-granting programs:
To view the list of official course offerings, please see Rice’s Course Catalog.
To view the most recent semester’s course schedule, please see Rice's Course Schedule.

Description and Code Legend

Note: Internally, the university uses the following descriptions, codes, and abbreviations for this academic program. The following is a quick reference:  

Course Catalog/Schedule

• Course offerings/subject codes: Courses from various subjects may apply towards this program

Home School Description and Code

• Natural Sciences: NS

Home Department (or Program) Description and Code

• Natural Sciences: NSCI

Undergraduate Certificate Description and Code 

• Certificate in Public Science Communication: PSC

CIP Code and Description¹

• PSC Certificate: CIP Code/Title: 09.0908 - Technical and Scientific Communication