Semester I classes, Boston University's Master's Degree Program in Science and Medical Journalism

Photo courtesy of NASA

"Good science writers think about the theory and practice of the job — like good practitioners in any field. But we've only existed for a while, and the stories we cover have gone from occasional filler material to regularly appearing on front pages and magazine covers. We have to think hard about how to do what we do. Even in its early days, the BU program enforced that rigor. It does so today to an even greater extent."

— Adam Rogers, Class of '94, is a senior editor at Wired magazine

Semester I

Science Newswriting I
[COM JO 723]
Philip J. Hilts
A writing and workshop course examining the various components of reporting science news for newspapers. Through article writing and discussions, students acquire proficiency in reporting techniques, writing skills and news analysis.

Science in the Mass Media I
[COM JO 705]
Douglas Starr
A review and analysis of how controversial science issues are portrayed in the press, plus training in the techniques of writing short magazine stories. Structured around classroom discussions and editing workshops, this course aims to build concrete journalism skills and an understanding of the values and practices that make for a competent and thoughtful professional. Classroom discussions will also explore certain critical areas in health, environment and technology reporting.

Journalism Principles & Techniques
[COM JO 721]
A required print journalism course on reporting a full range of general interest stories under deadline.

One elective
Students may take a writing course in the College of Communication or a graduate level science or science policy course at Boston University or other institution in the Boston area.

Most students choose the following course as an introduction to broadcast science and medical journalism:

Broadcast Science News
[COM JO 881]
Gino Del Guercio
Advanced science writing and reporting for the broadcast media, including hands-on work in video production. By the end of the semester each student will have produced a broadcast-quality video segment on science, medicine or the environment.