Multimedia Conservation Communication

This course offers an engaging and practical introduction to the dynamic field of science communication. Through a combination of hands-on activities and instructional learning, students will explore various strategies for effectively conveying scientific and conservation messages. They will learn how to identify key challenges in their field, develop targeted communication strategies, and create compelling materials to support their goals. Throughout the course, students will design and refine their own science communication impact campaign, ensuring they leave with a concrete, actionable plan to implement in their work.

Learn at your own pace with instructor support (see Online Course Format Chart below for details).

Winter: December 1, 2025 – February 22, 2026 (Early bird ends November 2nd)

Live virtual meetings (also recorded) weekly on Wednesday, December 3 – February 4 (no meeting Dec 24, 31).

*Early bird saves $75

Basic understanding of ecological and conservation practices. Basic understanding of social media and basic understanding of Google products. 

Module 1: The basics of science communication and storytelling

• Define what science communication is and why it is relevant to conservation impact

• Develop compelling conservation stories using storytelling frameworks

• Identify good and poor practices within science communication

• Create an original story using common storytelling techniques

Module 2: Methods of Science Communication

• Identify a specific conservation challenge in their real-world line of work

• Identify a specific audience

• Design impact measuring tools and survey methods/Use qualitative and quantitative methods to assess the effectiveness of communication efforts.

• Design a theory of change

• Identify the means in which to pitch and effectively pitch science communication projects to media outlets and journalists

Module 3: Finalizing the roadmap to your own science communication product

• Synthesize key concepts from the course, including storytelling, audience identification, impact measurement, and the theory of change.

• Develop an actionable communication plan tailored to their work, ensuring they can immediately apply their skills to real-world conservation efforts.

FORMAT:

3 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace 

Get instructor support for the 3-month term via email, discussion threads, group meetings, and one-on-one appointments

After working through the course materials, set up an optional meeting with the instructor to discuss your own personal project from work or school

CONTINUING EDUCATION:

16 CEUs with The Wildlife Society

CERTIFICATIONS:

Earn 1 credit toward certification as an Associate/Certified Wildlife Biologist® (at any level) with The Wildlife Society

FORMAT:

12 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace 

Get instructor support for the 3-month term via email, discussion threads, group meetings, and one-on-one appointments

After working through the course materials, set up an optional meeting with the instructor to discuss your own personal project from work or school

CONTINUING EDUCATION:

16 CEUs with The Wildlife Society

Go to our Continuing Education Page for more details

CERTIFICATIONS:

Earn 1 credit towards a professional certificate in Conservation Planning with CWS

Earn 1 credit toward certification as an Associate/Certified Wildlife Biologist® (at any level) with The Wildlife Society

ACADEMIC CREDIT:

Earn 1 academic credit (go to our Academic Credit Page for details)

Earn an additional 1-2 academic credits with an Applied Project