verified
Verified Information • Last Updated Mar 2026
Science Literacy
Fake news or good science? In a world where we have access to unlimited information, it is hard to sift through the echo chamber of opinions fueled by emotions and personal biases, rather than scientific evidence. Science Literacy will teach you about the process of science, how to think critically, how to differentiate science from pseudoscience, how indigenous wisdom can inform science, how to understand and design a scientific study, and how to critically evaluate scientific communication in the media. Every module will build your new skill-base with real life examples, and at the end of each module you will have to apply these skills to scientific questions, talking points and controversies in the world. Warning: this course requires an open mind and the ability to self-reflect.
In Science Literacy, you’ll hear from special guests:
Timothy Caulfield, Canada Research Chair in Health Law and Policy and star of Netflix’s “A User's Guide to Cheating Death” on pseudoscience
Dr. Torah Kachur, Scientist and CBC journalist on science communication (and miscommunication!)
Christian Nelson, Citizen Scientist and creator of Edmonton Weather Nerdery, on experimental design
Metis Elder Elmer Ghostkeeper and Cree Elder Kokum Rose Wabasca, on the holistic nature of Indigenous wisdom and how it can work with the scientific process
Associate Professor in Psychology, Dr. David Rast on uncertainty and decision making
Duration
3 Months
Institution
University of Alberta
Format
Online
Eligibility Criteria
school
Academic Foundation
A recognized Bachelor’s degree or high school equivalent required for admission into University of Alberta.
language
Language Proficiency
English proficiency required. IELTS, TOEFL, or standard medium-of-instruction certificates accepted.
Detailed Fees Breakdown
Base Tuition Fee
$350
Total Est. Investment
$350
Scholarships and early-bird waivers may apply. Contact admissions for exact institutional fees.
Academic Trajectory
Program Outcome
Graduates of the Science Literacy program at University of Alberta are equipped with global perspectives, ready to excel in international markets and top-tier career opportunities.