Amiculum and the University of Dundee collaborate on a Master’s course in Science and Health Communication 

Amiculum is delighted to continue an ongoing collaboration with the University of Dundee by supporting a Master’s course in Science and Health Communication. Alongside University-led modules, Amiculum will provide students with hands-on experience to enhance their employability in the healthcare communications industry.

Master’s course conception and development 

The Master’s course was an idea conceived during discussions between Amiculum's co-founder, Dr Richard Allcorn, and Professor Sir Pete Downes, former Vice Chancellor of the University. The Amiculum team worked closely with the Schools of Life Sciences and Medicine at the University to develop the concept and to prepare for the launch of the course in September 2023.

The curriculum has been developed by subject matter and learning experts from Amiculum working in collaboration with programme leads and Deans at the University and with input from other experts in the area. The key objective is to develop a course that combines the theory around health communication with application to a spectrum of industries within health and science communication to enhance employability once students graduate.

“Amiculum is delighted to be collaborating with the University of Dundee on this project. We hope that the course will help raise awareness of the importance of scientific communication as a key component of healthcare and prepare graduates for the many exciting career options that are open to them,” explained Dr Allcorn.

What can students expect from the Master’s course?

Students joining this 1-year Master’s course will gain insight into current key areas and topics, such as theories of science communication, content design and persuasive communication, audience segmentation and profiling, critical analysis and appraisal of scientific papers and clinical trial results, and the evaluation of effective engagement. 

Unlike many similar degree courses, students will learn about specialist scientific subjects, including ethical issues in science and healthcare, drug discovery, clinical trials, epidemiology, and more. The course will also provide experience in visual and written communication, graphic design, communication across social media platforms, and storytelling and narrative design. During the final semester, the degree offers a 10-week work placement, allowing students to put their knowledge into practice.

“The University of Dundee is excited to be offering this course, which has been conceived and designed with Amiculum. We believe this engaging course will equip students with the necessary skills to enter an international workforce with world-leading companies in the science and healthcare communication industries,” added Professor Faisel Khan, Associate Dean (International) of the School of Medicine.

Learn more about the course

In a webinar recording hosted by Network Pharma, panellists Erin Hardee (Schools Outreach Organiser and programme co-lead) and Marios Stavridis (Associate Dean for Learning and Teaching), from the University of Dundee, alongside Sheetal Patel and Nicola Duckworth from Amiculum, share more information around the course’s conception and development, as well as practical aspects of what’s included in the curriculum.

The University is currently accepting applications for the next course intake starting in September 2024. The programme is open to individuals from various backgrounds and disciplines, including the sciences (life sciences, mathematics, physical sciences), healthcare (medicine, dentistry, nursing, allied professions), and communications media (arts, graphic design, marketing, communications).