Everyone from farmers to the military rely on weather forecasts.
The study of meteorology dates back to the third century B.C. and the writings of Aristotle. It deals with Earth's atmosphere and its interaction with the surface, attempting to predict the behaviour of weather and climate. Degrees in meteorology are available at colleges across the U.S. and can lead to a variety of careers.
Where to Study?
Meteorology degrees are available across the U.S., and although there is no official ranking, the course at Pennsylvania State University is considered to be among the best. It ranks among the top research schools for earth science and atmospheric science and boasts the largest student-run weather service in the U.S. Other popular colleges for meteorology include Colorado State, Washington and Wisconsin, which are all highly regarded for their research in the field.
Studying Meteorology
Those looking to study meteorology should have a good background in science, computer skills and mathematics. Some students will have studied one of these subjects at undergraduate level and go on to take a graduate course in meteorology, others will apply direct from high school. Undergraduate programs generally take four years, but the content of the course may vary from one college to another. Penn State offers students the chance to specialise in air-quality studies, atmospheric sciences, climatology, environmental meteorology, weather forecasting and communications or weather risk management.
Career Options
Meteorology degrees can lead to jobs in forecasting, television weathercasting, working in industry or for consulting firms providing specialised forecasts, water management, forecasting for the military, teaching science and math, or research for universities or the government. However employment is not guaranteed, as supply is roughly equal to demand, and students of meteorology are encouraged to take courses in other subjects such as computer science or business in order to broaden their employment opportunities.
Career Advancement
When you have five years of experience as a meteorologist, you can apply for professional certification for consulting meteorologists from the American Meteorological Society (AMS). This certification can lead to career advancement and additional responsibility. In order to be certified you must fulfil the necessary educational requirements, pass a test and provide character references. The AMS also provides certification for broadcast meteorologists looking to further their career in television or radio forecasting.
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