Science Policy Writing Course
Enrollment is open for the 2025 Science Policy Skills Training Course!
NSPN's Science Policy Writing Course is a 6-week program designed to equip STEM students and professionals with the essential skills needed to write effectively for policymakers and the public. Taught by experienced STEM professionals working in policy, this course focuses on crafting impactful, non-academic writing for public and policy engagement. Participants will learn to draft compelling policy briefs, blog posts, and op-eds, honing their writing skills while building a portfolio tailored to connect with policymakers and broader audiences.
WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE?
This program is ideal for STEM students and professionals who want to gain an introductory understanding of science and technology policy writing and be more effective communicators.
Our course is open to any science and tech policy enthusiasts interested in enhancing their science communication skills.
DURATION
6 classes, online
2-4 hours per weeK
PROGRAM FEE
US $300
COURSE DETAILS
Course Structure
NSPN’s Training Course is virtual. All sessions are held over zoom with an intimate class size of 25 participants.
90 minute classes feature guest speakers, peer discussions, and hands-on exercises. Attendance at all sessions is required to earn a certificate.
Weekly office hours provide personalized feedback and guidance on assignments and career goals.
Participants build their communication skills through individual and group assignments.
Benefits
Beyond the skills and knowledge gained in this course participants will gain access to the following benefits.
Development of a Writing Portfolio including policy briefs, op-eds, opposition and support testimony, and public communication pieces.
Networking Opportunities with experienced policy professionals and peers throughout the course.
Certification of Completion: Earn a certificate recognizing your achievement and commitment to advancing science policy.
Course Dates & Expectations
Participants will be expected to attend all sessions and complete all assignments to a satisfactory level to receive a certificate of completion for the course. The dates and times for course sessions are listed below:
March 4, 2025- 12:00 - 1:30pm ET | Networking & Onboarding Introduction
March 11, 2025 - 12:00 - 1:30 pm ET | Introduction to Public Policy Writing and Blogging
March 18, 2025 - 12:00 - 1:30 pm ET | Writing for Op-Eds & Commentaries
March 25, 2025 - 12:00 - 1:30 pm ET | Writing an Issue Brief
April 1, 2025 - 12:00 - 1:30 pm ET | Writing an Opposition or Support Letter
April 8, 2025 - 12:00 - 1:30 pm ET | Feedback, Coaching, and Mentorship for Your Science Policy Writing
COURSE FEES
Enrollment Cost $300
Enrollment is open until the course is full or Sunday, March 2nd at 11:59 pm ET.
Course fees are refundable by request until Sunday, March 2nd, 2025 at 11:59 pm ET.
Questions? Please email info@scipolnetwork.org.
Financial Assistance
Financial assistance may be available for NSPN Chapter participants.
Please contact info@scipolnetwork.org for more information.
We also encourage participants to seek scholarship from their academic institutions or employers.
SCIENCE POLICY WRITING EDITORS
If you are a mid-late career science policy professional interested in supporting the next generation of science policy leaders through mentorship and editorial support, please reach out to info@scipolnetwork.org for more details and first access to our application.