Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Atmospheric Science

Four specialized options are available for students who plan professional careers in meteorology or atmospheric science.

  • General Meteorology satisfies all the traditional professional meteorology requirements for employment with the National Weather Service, airlines, or other agencies.
  • Air Pollution Meteorology meets the need for trained specialists.
  • Hydrometeorology may lead to a career as a meteorologist in one of the many water-related activities in private and governmental agencies.
  • News Media Forecasting can lead to a career forecasting the weather on television or radio. The B.S. degree with any of these specialties also prepares students to begin graduate programs in meteorology or atmospheric science.

During the final year in the program, students are required to do a graduation check. Final degree checks are done by the College Advising & Student Services staff of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (109 Strong Hall). As part of this check, students will also need to meet with the Undergraduate Advisor in the Geography Department to check the Geography or Atmospheric Science major requirements. It is strongly recommended that students consult with a Geography advisor on a regular basis to make certain that, at each stage in their program, they are meeting all of the requirements for the degree.

Admissions

The Department Geography & Atmospheric Science is within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. CLAS Interest Code and Major Declaration forms are available from College Student Academic Services, 109 Strong Hall. Students are strongly encouraged to declare an Geography or Atmospheric Science major as soon as possible.

Additional university admission requirements:

Requirements

All Atmospheric Science BS students must complete certain core skills and prerequisites. These include written communication, communication, and atmospheric science prerequisites and co-knowledge. Current course requirements can be viewed in the KU online catalogue.

General Option

This option is for students who want a broad background in atmospheric science. It is also the most suitable option for those who are aiming at a career in weather forecasting. It includes a third semester of synoptic meteorology as well as an air pollution course.

Air Pollution Option

Students prepare for a career emphasizing environmental aspects of meteorology. This option includes an additional semester of chemistry as well as environmental studies.

Hydrometeorology Option

Students prepare for a career involving the interface between meteorology and hydrology. These studies have important applications to flash floods, droughts and water supply. This option includes additional courses on fluid flow and hydrology from the School of Engineering.

News Media Forecasting

Students prepare for a career forecasting the weather on television or radio. The B.S. degree with any of these specialties also prepares students to begin graduate programs in meteorology or atmospheric science.