Biomedical Sciences Communication

Specialisation of: Biomedical Sciences
Degree: MSc in Biomedical Sciences
Mode of Study: Full-time
Duration: 2 years
Start date: Flexible, for international students preferably September or February
Language of instruction: Dutch
Location: Leiden
Croho/isat code: 66990
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The MSc in Biomedical Sciences aims to provide you with a theoretical background and with general academic competences in multidisciplinary research in Biomedical Sciences. You will be trained to become an independent researcher, with a further career in science. Either with a view to obtaining a PhD degree, or to fill a position in an industrial or institutional research environment.

In the Biomedical Sciences Communication specialisation you combine your research training with different aspects of science communication, such as journalism, new media, museology, and information visualisation.
The communication part of the specialisation is taught in Dutch.

Programme

The common part of the programme for all students of MSc Biomedical Sciences consists of:

  • A 20-week research traineeship in a laboratory;
  • A number of theoretical and thematic (Frontiers of Science) courses;
  • A course on how to write a research proposal;
  • A course on clinical research in practice;
  • A course on scientific conduct.

In addition, the Communication specialisation (60 EC) is offered in collaboration with the Faculty of Humanities, or with the Faculty of Sciences. Students will deal with topics such as science communication, science journalism, editing and presentation skills, web text & web design, and information visualisation. Students conclude their programme with a traineeship in the field of science communication and biomedicine.

For the most up to date course overview, see the e-Prospectus.

What our students say

Jennifer Verkleij

“Should pharmaceutical companies be allowed to advertise drugs?”

“My choice for the Communication master’s specialisation is because I liked science communication as early as secondary school. I think it’s important that everyone has a good understanding of what scientists actually do and what kind of new discoveries they make.
Science communication is a very broad area. Just look in Leiden, at how many museums there are where you can contribute to exhibitions or public surveys. Public information for such organisations as the Diabetes Foundation is another possibility. If you prefer radio or TV, working for one of the broadcasting companies is also a possibility.
This specialisation can help you to write better scientific articles. Communication is everywhere and there is a lot that can be improved. So what’s stopping you?”