This question is central to the new University of Kentucky online Master of Science program in Science Translation and Outreach.

About This Program

Most Americans respect the institution of science but are uncertain how to capitalize on scientific knowledge for the public good. Our digital world overwhelms us with information, so much so that the public is often unable to discern scientifically valid information and, most importantly, to effectively use that information to improve lives.  

Transdisciplinary thinking is recognized by The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine as fundamental to achieving breakthroughs in food and agricultural sciences. Successful transdisciplinary programming would be grounded in multiple, relevant natural sciences, but it would also benefit by being grounded in the social sciences, in order to facilitate successful dialogue. We offer a transdisciplinary non-thesis Master of Science degree program that builds student capacity to:

1. Assess public needs and interests with respect to agriculture, food and environment;
2. Identify, sort and interpret credible scientific information from diverse fields relevant to public concerns; and,
3. Use scientific information to create successful programs in applied research and outreach which effectively address public concerns.

The program requires 12 credits (four 3-credit courses) of core material and 18 credits of free elective courses approved by the student's advisory committee.