Science Writing MA
Saint Joseph’s online Master of Arts in Science Writing provides students with broad training in scientific, nature, environmental and/or medical writing. Bringing an intersectional lens to issues like climate change, Saint Joseph’s program considers how science, environmental and healthcare writing can work toward social justice.
The master’s in science writing offers practical courses in science writing alongside electives in literature. Students are prepared to be critical thinkers and writers who can make complex information available to a wide variety of audiences. Courses will be taken 100% online, with the addition of two, one-week residencies.
Through Saint Joseph's 4+1 program, current undergraduate students can begin earning credits toward a science writing MA during their senior year. This unique option allows you to graduate with two degrees — a bachelor's and master's — in just five years, saving you time and money. Students interested in this program should apply to the graduate program during their junior year and be conditionally accepted before they complete their bachelor's degree. If you successfully completed Saint Joseph’s University's Science Writing Certificate program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, you can take just five additional courses to receive your master’s degree.
What Sets Our Program Apart?
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The master's in science writing is designed to meet the needs of working professionals in the field seeking to advance their careers. Courses are offered fully online, with on-site residencies and small virtual class sizes making it easy to connect with your professors and classmates and develop your graduate network, For maximum flexibility, this program can be completed on a part-time basis. Learn more about the online experience.
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This innovative new program includes two short residencies at the Cape May Point Science Center and the former Sisters of Saint Joseph’s Retreat Center, housed in Cape May Point, NJ. The Science Center is next door to the Cape May Lighthouse, the Hawk Watch and The Cape May Bird Observatory. It is also near other beautiful natural resources such as Higbee Beach and the Garrett Family Preserve, providing a rich environment for writing about nature and science. Historic Cape May was a stop on the underground railroad for Harriet Tubman, making it an important location to consider the connections of racism and the environment.
During each of the two, 5 day residencies, students have a hands-on opportunity to explore nature and witness the impact of climate change in one of the foremost migratory bird spots in the United States.
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Community-engaged learning will be embedded in two courses, or students will have the option to take one course designated as a community-engaged class and a 1-credit community-engaged internship. Students will build their resumes and portfolios and have additional networking opportunities.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Science Writing?
Saint Joseph's University’s science writing graduates can pursue careers that help translate complex scientific, technological and medical information for general audiences. Graduates may go on to pursue careers as:
- Science reporters/writers/journalists
- Writers/Staff writers
- Technical and scientific writers or (bio)medical writers
- Editors
- Marketing/communication specialists
- Scientific directors/publication coordinators
- Public Relations
Program Details
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View required courses for this program in the academic catalog. Please contact us if you have any questions about the curriculum.
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Affordable tuition options start at $984 per credit.*
*Pricing does not include room and board, health insurance or any professional, clinical or transportation fees. Visit our tuition & fees page or contact us for more information.
Financial aid may be available to help offset the cost of your degree. Explore options on our financial aid page.
Discount Eligibility
Have you completed a year or more of service with a recognized service organization? You may be eligible for our mission discount.Alumni of Saint Joseph's are eligible to receive 10% off the cost of this program through our alumni discount.
Check with your employer to see if they are an Edcor or a Bright Horizons EdAssist member, which may entitle you to a discount on graduate programs.
Note: discounts cannot be combined.
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Graduate assistantships offer tuition remission and a stipend. Positions are available, but highly competitive. Once you apply, please note that all offices manage their hiring individually and will contact candidates if interested.
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Saint Joseph’s University is a Yellow Ribbon School that accepts GI education benefits. Our Office of Veterans Service can help you access and understand your benefits.
Admission Information
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Applicants for the MA will be required to provide evidence of completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0.
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- Apply online.
- Submit the following:
- An official college transcripts from all colleges attended
- A personal statement
- A resume
- A writing sample of up to 2,500 words
- Two letters of recommendation
Visit our graduate admission information page to learn more about admission requirements, key deadlines, additional requirements for international students and how to submit your application.
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Graduate applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. New students may enroll in courses during the fall, spring or summer semesters.
Start Terms:
- Fall: August
- Spring: January
- Summer: May
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If you’re applying as an international student, you must provide proof of English Language Proficiency and Certification of Finances along with your application. Check the graduate admission page for additional requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
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According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for writers and authors is $73,150.
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In addition to a student support coordinator, we have a variety of tools and resources that make it easy for you to get technical assistance, chart your course and focus your career search. Check out our online learning resources.