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undergraduate

Atmospheric sciences and meteorology


What is an atmospheric sciences and meteorology major?

Programs in atmospheric sciences and meteorology focus on the scientific study and prediction of the composition and behavior of the atmospheric envelopes surrounding the Earth, the effect of Earth's atmosphere on terrestrial weather, and climate change. Course topics include atmospheric chemistry and physics, atmospheric dynamics, climatology and climate change, general circulation patterns, weather phenomena, atmospheric predictability, weather simulation, weather forecasting, climate modeling and mathematical theory as well as studies of specific phenomena such as clouds, weather systems, storms, and precipitation patterns.

27%

of students said a highlight of this major was the exposure to diverse perspectives.

100%

of students found this major to be difficult.

33%

of students said they were motivated to select this major because it fit their passion & interest.

18%

of students said complex concepts were a challenging aspect of the major.

How much do atmospheric sciences and meteorology majors make?

median average salary

$85,000/yr

The national average salary for atmospheric sciences and meteorology graduates in the United States is $85,000 per year. Those in the top 10 percent make over $166,000 a year, while the bottom 10 percent make under $36,000 a year. While salary ranges can vary by role, industry, and location, atmospheric sciences and meteorology graduates typically make between $52,000 and $120,000 per year.

How popular is atmospheric sciences and meteorology as a major?

Each year, around 720 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and fewer than 5 students obtain an associate degree in atmospheric sciences and meteorology. In 2021, 755 students received a bachelor's degree and fewer than 5 students received an associate degree. This is 2% more atmospheric sciences and meteorology majors than there were in 2020. Atmospheric sciences and meteorology is a relatively uncommon major within environmental science.

Advice from atmospheric sciences and meteorology majors

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