Faculty of Science

Programme Coordinator

DR. NURULAINI BINTI ABU SHAMSI
Department of Science and Technology Studies
ainishamsi@um.edu.my
03-79674166
https://umexpert.um.edu.my/ainishamsi

Introduction

As nations continue to address the gap in interest towards Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), professionals with an advanced appreciation for the nuances in the interaction between scientific and non-scientific communities are expected to be highly sought after. Such professionals would fill roles as Public Relations Manager, Communications Director, Corporate Strategy Manager, Research Manager, or Science Journalist. The Master of Science Communication and Public Engagement aims to bridge this gap by equipping graduates with skills and knowledge in communicating science to a broad range of audiences, as well as engaging with key stakeholders to mediate the interaction between technical experts, decision makers and consumers.

Programme Learning Outcomes

At the end of the program, graduates of this programme are able to:

Demonstrate an analytical and critical understanding of specialized concepts, theories, methods as well as practice in science communication and public engagement.
Apply knowledge critically to manage and resolve issues in science communication through a range of techniques, tools, skills or approaches for decision making and producing new ideas, and innovative solutions.
Demonstrate mastery of practical, technical skills and research methodologies to resolve emerging problems in science communication.
Demonstrate ability to communicate, convey information, insights, and ideas effectively to general public, as well as the ability to work together with different people in communities ethically and professionally.
Apply a wide range of suitable digital technologies, software and statistical tools to enhance research and practice in science communication and public engagement
Demonstrate significant autonomy, leadership, and responsibility in dealing with science communication issues in civil society.
Demonstrate self-progress in academic or career development and have initiative in exploring entrepreneurial opportunities.
Demonstrate adherence to legal, ethical, and professional codes of practice in the areas of science communication as well as ability to justify decision(s) on complex issues in science communication based on critical reflections and ethical considerations.

English Language Entry Requirements

Local applicant must possess MUET Band 4.

International applicant must possess either one of the following:

MUET Band 4
IELTS Band 5.5
PTE Score 42
TOEFL Score 550 (PBT), 213 (CBT) or 80 (iBT)

Exemption from the English Language requirement (only for international applicants):

applicant is from a Country where the National Language is the English Language;
applicant possesses academic qualification from an institution which uses English Language fully as their medium of instruction.

Academic Entry Requirement

Bachelor’s degree with a CGPA not less than 3.00; or
Bachelor’s degree with a CGPA between 2.70 to 2.99 and fulfil at least one (1) criteria*; or
Bachelor's degree with a CGPA of 2.50 to 2.69 and fulfil at least one (1) criteria* (for UM graduate applicant) or two (2) criteria* (for non UM graduate applicant); or

* Criteria:

graduate of University of Malaya;
Has at least one (1) year of working experience in the related field;
has produced publications in the related fields;
is a scholarship recipient;
a government agency staff;
passed the interview conducted by the Faculty; or
passed the special assessment by the Faculty.
Bachelor's degree with a CGPA of 2.00 to 2.49 and meets at least one (1) of the following criteria* (for UM graduate applicant) or two (2) criteria* (for non UM graduate applicant); or
other qualification approved by Senate from time to time

Study Plan

SEMESTER I
Course Code	Course Name	Course Type	Credit
SQJ7001	Research Methodology	Core	4
SQJ7003	Principles in Science Communication and Public Engagement	Core	4
SQJ7004	Science and Media in Multicultural Society	Core	4
SQJ7007	Controversial Issues in Science and Technology	Elective	3
SQJ7008	Systems Thinking for Decision Making	Elective	3
SQJ7009	Social Innovations	Elective	3
NOTE: Choose 2 elective courses only

SEMESTER II
Course Code	Course Name	Type	Credit
SQJ7002	Research Project (P1)	Core	6
SQJ7005	Science, Policy and Public Impact	Core	3
SQJ7006	Big Data in Science Communication	Core	3
SQJ7010	Digital Law and Communication Ethics	Elective	3
SQJ7011	Managing Science and Technology Events	Elective	3
SQJ7012	Science Diplomacy	Elective	3
NOTE: Choose 2 elective courses only

SPECIAL SEMESTER
Course Code	Course Name	Type	Credit
SQJ7002	Research Project (P2)	Core	6

Indicative Fees

Local candidate: RM18,367.50

International candidate: RM 28,015.00

Application

Please visit https://study.um.edu.my/how-to-apply-master-rsquo-s-degree