Graduate Certificate in Science Communication – ANU

Graduate Certificate Science Full Time

Graduate Certificate in Science Communication

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

103862H

CRICOS provider code

00120C

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

26 weeks

Tuition (whole course)

A$28,060 total

Per year

A$56,120/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Graduate Certificate in Science Communication at the Australian National University in Canberra is designed for graduates and professionals seeking specialist expertise in communicating scientific concepts to public, government, and industry audiences. The course covers topics such as science writing, oral and digital communication, and the role of science in society. You will learn advanced strategies to translate complex scientific knowledge into accessible information for diverse communities.

Structured over 26 weeks, this graduate certificate is composed of a sequence of units of study, each with designated credit points towards the total award. Units are typically completed in one semester, allowing for intensive learning and engagement with real-world scenarios. You will engage in individual and team assignments, practice public engagement, and participate in workshops designed to refine your scientific storytelling skills. While the Graduate Certificate does not include a research thesis or capstone project, the curriculum emphasises practical application and reflection on current issues in science communication.

This programme is ideally suited to recent science graduates or working professionals in science, media, or policy who wish to expand their communication toolkit. The skills gained will prepare you to effectively bridge the gap between science experts and the broader community, policy makers, or business leaders. As part of a public higher education institution, students benefit from ANU's strong links with national research bodies, science agencies, and science communication organisations, particularly relevant in the Canberra context.

International students must meet English proficiency requirements (generally IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent) and are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. Graduates may also be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, aligning with opportunities in Australia’s dynamic science and communication sectors. Prospective students should always confirm CRICOS registration and official details on the university website.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Science communicator in research institutes, universities, and museums
Media and public relations roles in government science agencies
Communications advisor for science-based not-for-profits
Public policy analyst specialising in scientific and technological issues
Digital content creator for science and environmental organisations
Education and outreach specialist in scientific institutions

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Certificate in Science Communication at Australian National University?

It typically takes 26 weeks, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$28,060 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Science communicator in research institutes, universities, and museumsMedia and public relations roles in government science agenciesCommunications advisor for science-based not-for-profitsPublic policy analyst specialising in scientific and technological issuesDigital content cr...

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