Science Writing & Communication I
WCWP-40105
There is a common misconception that scientific research is inaccessible, overly technical or even uninteresting. It’s time to change the narrative. This class equips emerging science communicators from any background with the skills to effectively share science discoveries with the general public. Throughout the course, you’ll develop your science writing portfolio, network with your peers, and learn new ways to engage with the broader science communication community.
Please note: This course is about communicating scientific topics to non-scientific audiences, not about writing scientific journal articles or grants.
Weekly Course Topics:
- Foundations in science writing and communication
- Storytelling and writing a lead
- The art of interviewing, podcasting and writing for video
- Controversial topics, op-eds, and the importance of diverse voices
- Brand journalism and writing press releases
- Freelance writing and starting a business
- AI in science writing: The good, the bad and the ugly
- Building a career in science writing
Prerequisite: Mastery of written English, experience in writing, and general knowledge of science are strongly encouraged.
Course Information
Course sessions
Section ID:
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This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 4/10/2026
- 1st no meeting date: 5/25/2026
Schedule:
Instructor:
Brittany Fair
She previously worked at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, the National Institute on Aging (NIA)’s National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center, and CNN International. She is also the former president of the San Diego Science Writers Association.
Prior to becoming a science communicator, Brittany conducted research at Stanford University, the University of Vermont, and UC San Francisco where she first-authored a manuscript on cellular health and depression. She also lived in the jungles of Madagascar and Panama studying lemur and howler monkey behavior, respectively.
Outside of work, she enjoys swimming in the ocean, practicing yoga, and raising three wild boys.
