Master of Arts in Science Writing

Do you enjoy explaining science? Do you delight in the wonders of nature or the process of scientific discovery, and yearn to tell those stories? Join the next generation of writers who are showing how science, medicine, and technology affect our lives.

Advancing technology, an ever-changing planet, and our age-old fascination with the unknown has fueled a rising demand for science and health information.

Millions now listen to podcasts or binge on documentaries about science, tech, and nature. In addition, many recent bestselling books illuminate science or medical themes.

News outlets, popular science publications, government research agencies, universities, nonprofits, biotech and pharmaceutical companies – all have a need for writers who can present complicated scientific and medical information clearly and accurately. Whether in a news story or speech, press release or website, museum exhibit text or podcast, the science writer provides a bridge between the esoteric world of science and the layperson.

Journalism Meets Creative Writing

We teach the reporting and writing skills required to succeed in the diverse ecosystem of science and medical writing. In core classes, students hone reporting techniques such as interviewing scientists and identifying credible sources. Electives such as Subatomic Writing, Principles of Editing, and Literature of Science help students polish their prose and emulate masters of the craft. In workshops such as Science Narrative and Science Personal Essay & Memoir, students develop tools of creative nonfiction while receiving extensive feedback on their writing.

Summer residency courses immerse students in the field – from tromping through fields and coasts with field biologists to joining astronomers as they observe other galaxies. Previous residencies have taken students to Bar Harbor, Maine; Dublin, Ireland; and Missoula, Montana. The popular Medicine in Action residency takes place at the Johns Hopkins medical campus, and Science Policy, Funding, and Politics, is held in Washington, D.C.