Science Writing Certificate

The credits you earn from the certificate in science writing can be applied toward a Master of Arts in Science Writing from Saint Joseph’s University. Students who successfully complete the certificate program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher can then take five additional courses to earn an MA in Science Writing.

 

This program includes a five-day residency at the Cape May Point Science Center, 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 within a short distance of other beautiful natural resources like 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 between racism and the environment. 

During the residency, students will 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.

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.

View the required courses for this program in the academic catalog. Please contact us if you have any questions about the program curriculum.

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 you to help offset the cost of your degree. Explore your 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.

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 individual candidates if interested.

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. 

Applicants for the certificate 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.

• 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.

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

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.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for writers and authors is $73,150.

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.