Science Writing I
WCWP-40105
This course provides an introduction to most forms of science communication intended for non-scientific audiences, such as news and feature writing for both print and online outlets, video scripts, university communications, industry public relations, and more.
We will introduce various careers and considerations in science communication, including the ins and outs of being a freelance writer. We’ll also provide tips on interviewing and other tools and techniques needed to accurately convey complicated subjects in an engaging way to a variety of audiences.
Please note: This course is about communicating scientific topics to non-scientific audiences, not about writing scientific journal articles or grants.
Weekly Course Topics:
- Introduction
- Fundamentals I: how to write a clear, concise sentence; how to write about science in an approachable manner; and a review of the active vs. passive voice
- Fundamentals II: common obstacles in science writing; how to write with accuracy; and an intro to the science publishing world
- Storytelling
- Interviewing
- Writing for Video/Controversial Topics
- Brand Journalism
- Freelancing
- Write-a-thon
Quarters Offered: Winter | Spring | Summer | Fall
Prerequisite: Mastery of written English, experience in writing, and general knowledge of science are strongly encouraged.
Course Information
Course sessions
Section ID:
Class type:
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: 7/12/2025
- Early enrollment advised
Note:
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.
Section ID:
Class type:
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: 10/3/25
- 1st no meeting date: 11/11/2025
Note:
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.
