This fall Mount Saint Vincent University (the Mount) will welcome its first class to embark on an exciting new program of study. Recognizing an increasing need in Canada to fill the yawning gap between scientists and the public, the Mount is introducing a Bachelor of Science (Science Communication), the first of its kind in Canada, which will prepare graduates who are both science literate and have the ability to accurately translate science knowledge for a variety of audiences.
“This is an exciting interdisciplinary program that speaks to an increasingly evident need in Canada and beyond to improve science literacy,” says Amy Thurlow, Chair of the Department of Communication Studies at the Mount. “Research conducted to develop the program clearly showed that many of our personal and public policy decisions are affected by our understanding of science.”
An exciting addition to professional studies, the program capitalizes on the Mount’s strengths in the areas of communication studies and science to fill a gap in Canada’s need for well-qualified science communicators who can work with government departments, school districts, university researchers, non-profit agencies, private sector companies and media outlets to name a few.
The B.Sc. (Science Communication) also prepares graduates for further study in areas such as medicine, dentistry, law, health promotion, health administration, environmental science, public relations, communication and journalism.
Mount Saint Vincent University is renowned for its innovative programs and has been a leader in communication studies for over a quarter of a century. Developed through collaboration with experts across the country and in the United States, the new degree will be a part of the Mount’s communication studies program which already includes the well established Bachelor of Public Relations, the Master of Public Relations, the Master of Arts (Public Relations) and a new minor in Communication Technology.
The program is offered by the Department of Communication Studies (formerly the Department of Public Relations) in collaboration with the departments of Chemistry, Biology and Psychology. Students will take a variety of courses in science and communication studies and will have the opportunity to work with scientists from other institutions.
This four-year program has limited enrollment.
About Mount Saint Vincent University
Recognized as a leader in flexible education, applied research, and a personalized approach to education, Mount Saint Vincent University is nationally recognized among undergraduate universities in Canada for our success in Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council grants and for having one of the lowest student-to-professor ratios. The Mount is committed to providing the best university experience for all members of our community and to developing thoughtful, engaged citizens who make a positive impact on their world. For additional information about the University, visit msvu.ca.
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For more information:
Akiko Lovett
Mount Public Affairs
Tel: (902) 457-6439
Cell: (902) 441-0505