Atmospheric Sciences (Meteorology) BS
University at Albany
Description
Atmospheric science is the study of the Earth’s atmosphere and its relationship to other processes and systems, encompassing the fields of meteorology and climatology. These areas of scientific inquiry produce research and technology that are critical to human society.
UAlbany’s Department of Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences undergraduate program in Atmospheric Sciences provides comprehensive training for a wide range of career options in the public and private sectors, as well as preparation for pursuing advanced degrees.
The program is focused on three fundamental areas of atmospheric science: synoptic (observations and weather forecasting), dynamic (theory and computer modeling), and physical (lightning, acid rain, cloud/aerosol physics, radiation, hydrometeorology, atmospheric chemistry, and atmospheric electricity). Because the department has a highly active research program in these areas, qualified undergraduate students can elect to work closely with a faculty member on a research project.
Undergraduate students in Atmospheric Sciences have many opportunities to become involved in department activities, including an internship program with the on-campus office of the National Weather Service (NWS) and weather forecasting competitions each semester. Students in the department also run an active chapter of the American Meteorological Society, participating in outreach activities and traveling to meteorology conferences. Some students are hired part-time or during the summer through research grants, and may have the opportunity to attend or present at conferences. Some research may even be done for credit towards the Atmospheric Science major.