Meteorology students study something that affects all our lives -- the
weather. They learn to figure out what the weather will look like tomorrow.
They also study long-term climate change.
These students learn everything there is to know about weather and how
to predict it.
Meteorology requires a university degree. Programs can be found within
several departments. These include atmospheric sciences, meteorology and
climatology.
James Holton is a professor of atmospheric science at the University of
Washington. He says students should ask themselves if they really have the
determination to succeed in a subject that requires a strong background
in math and physics.
When choosing a school, make sure that its program focuses on the field
you wish to enter. Some schools are better known for their "hard science"
research areas, such as air pollution or hydrology. Other schools may concentrate
on more general aspects, such as weather forecasting and analysis.
About three dozen schools in the U.S. offer degrees in atmospheric sciences
or meteorology.
Expect to pursue graduate studies. Meteorologists often need a master's
degree and most likely a PhD.
Susan Allen works with an atmospheric science program. She says high school
students should concentrate on physics, mathematics, computer science,
chemistry and writing skills.
This program demands good grades from students.
"At the undergrad level, most good schools look for a B or better average,"
says Gary Barnes. He is a professor of meteorology at the University of Hawaii.
"At grad levels, we take only those who sustained a 3.0 [grade point average]
or better, and a 3.4 makes your chances much better. The brightest of that
group get assistantships."
Extracurricular activities can give students an edge. It can also give
them a good idea of what the career will be like.
Allen recommends doing weather-related science fair projects and searching
the Internet for satellite photos and weather information. "Just paying
attention to local weather patterns is also very useful," she adds.
Holton says that participation in science fairs, and in debating and other
clubs that stress communication skills, is valuable.
Meteorology students can expect to pay lab fees in some programs.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Atmospheric
Scientists
Weather
Click here for maps, forecasts and weather history
American Meteorological Society
Check out their news, publications and a special section for
students