COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Meteorology requires a total of 30 units and is designed to develop advanced knowledge in atmospheric science, research skills, and applied meteorological expertise. The program combines core coursework, research training, advanced electives, and a culminating experience to prepare students for professional careers or doctoral study.The core requirement consists of 12 units. Students complete four key courses: Research Methods in Meteorology (which also fulfills the GWAR requirement), Advanced Atmospheric and Climate Dynamics, Advanced Physical Meteorology, and Numerical Modeling or Parameterization in Numerical Weather Prediction. These courses provide a strong foundation in atmospheric theory, climate systems, and computational modeling techniques used in modern meteorological research and forecasting.The research component accounts for 6 units through METR 298 Research. Students must complete at least 3 units in two separate semesters, ensuring sustained engagement in a research project under faculty supervision. This experience is central to developing independent research skills and contributes directly to the thesis or project work.An additional 3 units are completed through advanced courses chosen in consultation with a graduate advisor. Options include specialized topics such as fire behavior, recent developments in meteorology, and other advanced studies. The elective requirement is 6 units, which may include additional advanced meteorology courses or approved coursework in related fields such as physics, computer science, or mathematics. This flexibility allows students to tailor their studies to specific interests like climate modeling, air pollution, remote sensing, or atmospheric dynamics.The culminating experience is 3 units and an follow either Plan A (Thesis) or Plan B (Project). Plan A includes Colloquium and a Master’s Thesis, while Plan B includes Colloquium and additional research units, both requiring significant independent work and a final submission. In the thesis option, students typically complete 2 units of thesis work in the final semester.Overall, the program is structured to train highly skilled meteorologists capable of working in research institutions, government agencies, forecasting services, environmental consulting, and advanced doctoral programs.