University of Wyoming Logo

Atmospheric Science

Master of Science (M.S.)

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Apply Now Visit Campus

Professor teaching two students about an airplane part

Explore meteorology, weather, climate change and more at UW

Are you passionate about championing cleaner air and water? Are you a self-proclaimed "storm chaser," exhilarated by the forces of nature? Or do you aspire to make a global impact through analyzing the global Earth system?

Embark on an extraordinary academic journey at UW's Department of Atmospheric Science, where we place the utmost emphasis on nurturing our students' success and fostering their personal growth. In addition to meteorology majors, we accept applicants with undergraduate or advanced degrees in physical and chemical sciences or engineering.

Request Info

Program Details

College

College of Engineering and Physical Sciences

Department

Department of Atmospheric Science

Curriculum & Courses

M.S. Curriculum
Ph.D. Curriculum

About Atmospheric Science at UW

Since its inception in 1965, airborne research at the University of Wyoming has flourished, creating an extraordinary program under the Department of Atmospheric Science that continues to thrive to this day. Supported by a team of highly qualified faculty, state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge research, students enrolled in our atmospheric graduate programs are getting a one-of-a-kind education.

Our M.S. requires 30 hours, including 26 coursework hours and 4 thesis research hours. Students complete 20 core course hours and 6 elective hours chosen with their advisor's guidance.

Our Ph.D. requires 72 total hours, with at least 42 hours of coursework. Up to 48, including 4 thesis research hours, can be transferred from another institution.

Researcher in airplane
Professor and student work on weather research on Prexys Pasture

Our graduate students have access to top-notch resources and research experiences, setting our atmospheric science degrees apart as one of the best in the country. Students will collaborate with a major professor specializing in one of the diverse research areas within the department:

At UW, we offer courses that cover core atmospheric science topics along with numerous electives to allow our graduate students to dive deep into their interests. Here are just some classes you might take getting your atmospheric science degree at UW:

  • Dynamic Meteorology
  • Synoptic Meteorology
  • Objective Data Analysis
  • Climate Science
  • Weather Analysis & Forecasting

View the full master of science in atmospheric science degree program curriculum.

View the full Ph.D. in atmospheric science degree program curriculum.

Professor teaching at board

 

What Can You Do With an Atmospheric Science Graduate Degree?

The results speak for themselves - graduates of our programs emerge well-prepared, stepping confidently into successful careers in atmospheric science and other technical fields ranging from academic faculty and leading government scientists to founders of their own companies. Their achievements stand as a powerful testament to the program's transformative impact.

Atmospheric Science Careers

Our comprehensive program equips students with the knowledge and skills to pursue rewarding careers in atmospheric science. Here are just some jobs in atmospheric science you could obtain:

  • Air and Water Quality Manager
  • Climatologist
  • Climate Scientist
  • Meteorologist
  • Professor
  • Storm Specialist
  • Weather Forecaster
  • Weather Risk Communicator

 

Researcher poses outside of research vehicle

 

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT the department of atmospheric science?

See for yourself!
mountain logo

Atmospheric Science Graduate Program Highlights

Research Facilities

Our students enjoy unparalleled opportunities, with access to the national airborne research facility (University of Wyoming King Air), a mobile air quality lab and direct access to the NCAR-Wyoming Supercomputer Center (NWSC). 

Financial Opportunities

The Department of Atmospheric Science proudly offers FULL financial support to 25-30 graduate assistants, ensuring ample chances for first-hand experience and skill development. Our departmental stipends are ranked among the most generous in atmospheric science.

Outstanding Faculty

The faculty members in our department boast impressive credentials and diverse expertise. Their backgrounds include Project Scientists at NCAR Research Applications Lab, Senior Scientists in aerospace technology, Research Scientists at NOAA, private air quality firms and Utah DEQ.

International Networking

Students also frequently engage in field projects alongside international collaborators. Many of our students have the chance to undertake short sabbaticals at the Department of Energy, NASA, NOAA and the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), fostering collaboration with leading scientists in these organizations. Our students also present their research all over the world. 

Low Student-to-Faculty Ratio

Our department comprises 7 faculty members and around 25 graduate students, along with an additional staff of approximately 15 research scientists, engineers and technicians. This unique setting offers students exceptional opportunities to closely collaborate with diverse professionals, providing them with a wide range of experiences unavailable in other programs.

Experiential Learning

One of the program's standout features is atmospheric science internships, providing students with hands-on experience at unique observing facilities not commonly found in other academic settings. Students enjoy convenient access to the NCAR supercomputer, fostering innovation in their research.

Related Programs

Interested in atmospheric science? These graduate programs at UW might also be of interest:

Apply to UW
Visit Campus
Request Info

Contact Us

We're Eager to Help!

Department of Atmospheric Science

EN 6034

Dept. 3038

1000 E. University Avenue

Laramie, WY 82071

Phone: (307) 766-2386

Email: jfrench@uwyo.edu