Tips for Becoming a Science Writer or Journalist

The field of Science Journalism is filled with people who are both highly educated and talented:  they have studied science and are excellent writers.  It truly is a skill to be able to explain complex scientific ideas in a way that anyone can understand.  This is something that will be needed more and more as devices and discoveries advance and we attempt to attract more young people into the fields of engineering and science.

Yet, as formal professions go, scientific writing is not the easiest route to take.  Since most people who would pursue this job are highly trained in at least one scientific field (if not more) they can easily make more money in fields other than journalism.  Thus, there tend to be few graduate schools which offer programs designed specifically for scientific writing and journalism.  However, this is starting to change. There are a number of universities which have excellent programs, such as those found at MIT or Johns Hopkins, which provide a means to entering this field. 

But, with or without such a graduate degree, there are several ways in which someone aspiring to become a science writer or journalist can enter this profession.   The most important part of this process is to become published…of course easier said than done.  One of the easiest ways is to start a blog.  Not only will this get you ample opportunity to practice your skill and get into the habit of writing, but it may get you noticed and allow potential employers to see samples of your writing.  It also may allow you to earn some revenue from ads on your page.  The best part is that it will get you in the habit of writing and reading about science.  Something you may do, but not on a consistent basis. 

Other options are to join The National Association of Science Writers.  Not only are they an excellent resource, but once one joins (which does require being published) you have access to job listings, workshops and mentors.  They will also host your site, so you could move your blog to a more established location.

The American Association for the Advancement of Science is another resource.  Not only do they have quite a bit of useful information, but they also list a number of internships and fellowships available for Science Writing or Journalism which are worth investigating.

Lastly, in order to get one’s foot in the door, persistence is key.  Start by contacting smaller publications to try and get your first break.  Local newspapers or college newsletters might be a good place to start, especially if they are for your alma mater or home town.   Agreeing to write for free the first couple of times might help them make this decision.  Of course, if you can direct them to your blog so that they can get a sense of your skills as a writer, that might help too.   A small science oriented company is also an option.  Working on a contract or part time basis, you might be able to help their ideas and products reach a broader audience. 

Basically, any way you can get writing and keep writing is the way to go.  The more proficient you become and the more experience you have, the easier it will become to get published.