Boston University's Center for Science and Medical Journalism offers an intense curriculum leading to a Master's of Science Degree, in which students develop the skills necessary to succeed in the competitive and rapidly evolving science journalism industry. Although our emphasis is on writing and reporting — the heart of all insightful and precise communication — students learn a variety of forms, from newspaper and magazine, to television and radio, to the latest Internet-based media.

The Degree, awarded by the College's Journalism Department, comprises 48 credit hours taken over three semesters, starting in the fall. In addition to courses required within the Program, students may take electives elsewhere in the College of Communication, such as in radio reporting, literary journalism or screen writing. They may also take science courses in other departments of the University or under special arrangement, at other academic institutions in the Boston area. The classes within the Program tend to be small — usually nine to 12 students — with an emphasis on professional level reporting and writing.

During the summer between the second and third semesters students participate in a professional internship — a journalism position at a newspaper, magazine, radio or television station. The internship is an integral part of the Program, providing experience, contacts, and a body of work. Recent graduates have landed positions at Time, Newsweek, The Los Angeles Times, Discover, Science, Science News and PBS’s NOVA documentary series.