Media skills for scientists

A free online course to teach scientists how to use the media to reach non-scientists

Engaging with journalists is one of the best ways to get your research noticed and to raise your public profile, which can lead to more collaborations and funding. This online course addresses any reservations you might have about engaging with journalists and packaging scientific information for non-scientists. It will give you the skills needed to interact successfully with the media and will show how seizing media opportunities could help advance your career.

Why this course?

  • Talking to the media is a great way to communicate your research to the public and raises your public profile
  • Media coverage draws public attention to the subject you are researching
  • Media exposure can lead to more collaborations and funding
  • Completion of the course allows you free use of Alpha Galileo's research dissemination service, meaning you can deliver your research news directly to interested journalists across the globe. Full details are found at the course end.

What’s included?

  • Thirteen short, user-friendly and interactive modules, divided into short, topical lectures. All of these modules are independent and can be taken individually.
  • Practical tasks designed to help you apply media theory to your working practice
  • Worksheets to support your learning where appropriate
  • A certificate upon course completion

This course is brought to you as part of the Script project, which is made possible by the Robert Bosch Stiftung and implemented by SciDev.Net.

For any queries about the course please email [email protected]


Your Instructor


Dr. Charles Wendo
Dr. Charles Wendo

Training Coordinator, SciDev.Net

Scientist I Journalist I Science Journalist

Dr Charles Wendo is a science journalist, veterinary doctor and media trainer. He holds a Master of Arts in Journalism and Communication degree, a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication, and a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine degree, all from Makerere University, Uganda.


Course Curriculum


  Introduction to "Media skills for scientists" course
Available in days
days after you enroll

Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
What if I want to give feedback on the course?
We are always happy to receive feedback. If you would like to get in touch with us you can email us at [email protected]

Get started now!