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The Major Program

Atmospheric science is the study of the layer of air that surrounds the planet. It includes all weather phenomena, such as frontal systems and clouds, as well as severe weather events such as hurricanes and tornadoes. The effects of human and other biotic activity on the quality of the air we breathe, and on changes in regional and global climate are also central to this field of study.

The Program. Modern meteorology is a quantitative science that is becoming increasingly computer oriented. In addition to the study of daily weather events, the program deals with fundamental physical processes that involve the general circulation of the atmosphere; turbulent mass and energy transfers at the planetary surface and within the atmosphere; solar and terrestrial radiation; atmospheric interaction with the biosphere; climate variations; and developments in modern meteorological instrumentation. In addition, the program has significant expertise in the areas of air quality and atmospheric chemistry. As well as providing a broad background in meteorology, the major includes an informal minor area to be chosen from mathematics, computer science, environmental studies, resource management or a physical or biological science.

Internships and Career Alternatives. Atmospheric science students have participated in internships with the California Air Resources Board, various county Air Pollution Control Districts, and the National Weather Service. Numerous career opportunities exist in the federal and state governments, research and development in the private sector, and education. Examples of career areas are weather forecasting, agricultural meteorology, air-pollution forecasting and control, weather modification, hurricane and severe weather forecasting and research, weather satellite meteorology, environmental consulting, and weather research. About half of our graduates continue their education by seeking the M.S. or Ph.D. degree in atmospheric science.