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Meteorology seeks to understand the behavior and predictability of the Earth's atmosphere and requires a good foundation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and computer science. The meteorology major combines required courses in these areas with advanced courses in meteorology and related disciplines to develop an academic background that is appropriate for a variety of employment opportunities. Our program encourages the development of technical skills (writing, speaking, computer) that will lead to productive careers and prepare students for the persuit of advanced degrees in the atmospheric or related sciences.
Students must meet with a meteorology adviser at least once a year. Many students require five years to complete the B.S. degree. To complete the degree in less time requires a foundation in mathematics and science prior to entering the University. For example, to complete the degree program in four years, students should be ready to take Calculus I (i.e., MATH 1210) during the first semester of the freshman year. Students who need to take preparatory classes such as College Albegra or Trigonometry may be able to complete the degree requirements in four years if they attend summer sessions. Students who transfer to the University and have completed the lower-division math, physics, chemistry, and computer sciences requirements, but have not completed all of the required lower-division meteorology courses, may still be able to complete the degree requirements in two years.
Programs of Study
There are four programs of study available for students earning a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology.
Professional Meteorologist: This option provides each graduate with a solid foundation in meteorology and enables the student to become conversant in related fields such as hydrology, air pollution, oceanography, computer science, and communications. Required coursework satisfies federal requirements for employment as a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, and meets the requirements of other government agencies and private firms. Successful completion of the program requires an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher and grades of C- or higher in all courses required for the major. Students must consult with an adviser for approval of elective courses.
Environmental Scientist: This option is designed for students interested in applying knowledge of the Atmosphere to related environmental fields such as hydrology and snow science, remote sensing, or public policy. Students must consult with an adviser for approval of an appropriate sequence of technical electives. Students who complete this program will meet all of the federal employment requirements for meteorologists. Successful completion of the program requires an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher and grades of C- or higher in all courses required for the major.
Meteorology with a business minor: In collaboration with the David Eccles School of Business, the Department of Meteorology offers students interested in commercial meteorology and consulting the option to pursue a Meteorology degree with a business minor. Business opportunities in meteorology are growing rapidly as society becomes increasingly reliant on weather information. Users of specialized weather forecasts and other meteorological services include power utilities, farmers and ranchers, transportation departments, law firms, and small businesses. Insurance companies and commodities traders also utilize climate information, weather forecasts, and climate predictions. The Meteorology degree with a business minor provides a foundation in meteorological analysis, weather forecasting, and business leadership to prepare students for the rapidly changing world of business meteorology. Students must consult with a meteorology and business school adviser annually for approval of an appropriate sequence of general education courses and technical electives. Successful completion of the program requires an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher and grades of C- or higher in all courses required for the major. Students must also earn a B or better in WRTG 2010 and BUS 1050 (BUS 1010 prior to Fall 2005) to be admitted into the business minor.
Atmospheric Scientist: This option is intended for the student who excels academically and who may wish to attend graduate school. It allows students to develop futher background in math, physics and computer science. Students who enroll in this program will meet all of the federal employment requirements for meteorologists. Successful completion of the program requires an overall GPA 3.0 or higher and grades of C- or higher in all classes required for the major.
Additional Information
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