Thesis and non-thesis Master of Science as well as Doctor of Philosophy degrees are offered in atmospheric sciences. Students from disciplines other than meteorology are encouraged to enroll in our graduate program. Normal prerequisites are 12 hours of calculus and differential equations and 8 hours of physics. The department offers a basic sequence of courses each year that covers key topics of atmospheric relevance in the areas of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cloud physics, radiation, and chemistry. These courses form a base for a large number of the other graduate courses. By the end of their first year, students typically have made arrangements to begin a research project directed by a faculty member. Faculty interests span a wide range extending from field and laboratory work through data analysis, numerical modeling, and theory.
The Department of Atmospheric Sciences can also serve as the “home” department for the Master of Geoscience Degree. The M.G.S. is a non-thesis degree that provides a multidisciplinary background in the geosciences that is appropriate for science teachers in public schools or for individuals interested in environmental issues.
Persons with an M.S. degree in atmospheric sciences typically obtain employment with government agencies, industrial organizations, and consulting firms, or they may enter the meteorological branch of one of the military services. The Ph.D. degree is normally required for a college level teaching or research career.