Science & Technology Journalism
Graduate ProgramInternship or Thesis
Open to candidates with scientific or other backgrounds, the Texas A&M STJR master’s program includes coursework in both science journalism and science. Students choose between non-thesis (internship) and thesis tracks.
About STJR
STJR is a broad-based science communication program designed to prepare students mainly for careers as writers and editors specializing in the communication of science, technology, and medicine. It can also serve as a background for related careers or as preparation for doctoral study.
Because STJR students come from varied backgrounds and have varied goals, the curriculum for the degree is fairly flexible. A student with a background in journalism would normally take more science classes than a student with a science background and vice versa.
A science writing internship is a key part of the non-thesis degree track. The main objectives of the internship are to get experience working in a science communication setting, to receive mentorship from a professional science communicator, and to add to your portfolio.
With professional and research interests including medical writing, science editing, the teaching of science communication, and how cultural inheritance systems affect behavior, Dr. Barbara Gastel and Dr. Yasha Hartberg make up the STJR core faculty.
Program Philosophy
STJR seeks to prepare graduates with a solid foundation in both science journalism and science. Each student completes graduate courses in both realms. It’s a small and highly individualized program, with each student choosing courses geared to their own interests and goals.