students looking at computer weather model

Master's in Atmospheric Sciences

Master of Science (M.S.)

Our planet is reaching a crossroads of society and the environment. Join the next generation of atmospheric experts and help mankind navigate increasingly complex interactions.

Today’s tumultuous, often life-threatening atmospheric changes requires a high level of expertise to help society navigate and cope in constructive ways. This program offers the experience to fill critical roles in research and helping society adapt. With this knowledge, you can help increase our understanding of the atmosphere, protect health and property in communities, and create opportunities in private industry.

Program type:
Master's Degree
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
2 years
Credit hours:
30

Why earn a master's in atmospheric science?

Application Deadlines
Fall:
Feb. 1* | Aug. 1
Spring:
Aug. 1* | Dec. 1

*Priority deadline

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

Atmospheric scientists assess and forecast weather patterns, analyze trends in the climate, monitor air quality and more. The next generation of atmospheric sciences experts will be part of the solution in tackling the evolving challenges of our planet.

With this UND graduate program, you'll have opportunities to:

  • Work with faculty who are conducting cutting edge research with agencies such as NASA, NSF, and the Naval Research Laboratory.
  • Gain a solid understanding of evolving nature and the atmospheric forces all around us.
  • Prepare to work in a wide variety of agencies, laboratories, businesses and educational institutions.

UND's Atmospheric Sciences Master's Programs

  • Courses provide a solid theoretical framework, along with an understanding of measurements, data analysis techniques and numerical modeling.

  • Learn how to analyze, interpret and synthesize scientific data efficiently and communicate the results effectively

  • Get your career on the fast-track with a 4+1 B.S./M.S. combined degree program.

  • Enhance your professional skills at 60+ free workshops offered through the UND School of Graduate Studies. Our goal is to provide you with the workforce skills and job search strategies to succeed.

  • Gain a competitive edge through UND's Accelerate to Industry (A2i)™ program. This workforce readiness program provides immersive job training for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. It is one of only 30 programs nationwide.

Master's in Atmospheric Science Jobs

93k

Median annual salary for atmospheric scientists, including meteorologists, 2023

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

6%

Projected job outlook for atmospheric scientists, including meteorlogists through 2033

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

With Earth changes, there is continued demand for technical expertise to conduct atmospheric research. Be part of the solution, particularly in the areas of decision support and climate change adaptions.

UND graduates can expect exciting opportunities in a number of professions:

  • Meteorologist
  • Data Analyst
  • Associate Scientist
  • Air Quality Specialist
  • Forecaster

An Atmospheric Sciences degree gives you the strategic skills you need, including:

  • Weather forecasting
  • Meteorology
  • Linux
  • C (Programming Language)
  • Geographic Information Systems
  • Python (Programming Language)

UND Atmospheric Sciences graduates have gone on to a variety of successful careers with:

  • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
  • National Weather Service
  • Iteris, Inc.
  • AerisWeather

Master's in Atmospheric Science Courses

ATSC 518. Advanced Synoptic Meteorology. 3 Credits.

Advanced analysis of atmospheric processes important to large-scale flows. Quasigeotropic and semi-geotropic theory, behavior of extratropical systems, fronts and jets, geotropic adjustment, blocking and IPV thinking. Prerequisite: ATSC 505 or equivalent.

ATSC 530. Numerical Weather Prediction. 3 Credits.

Covers scale analysis in atmospheric prediction; numerical methods; various atmospheric prediction models; the use of filtering, smoothing, interpolation, weighting and adjustment in objective analysis techniques; numerical forecasting; current NWP structures and applications. Prerequisite: ATSC 505.

ATSC 552. Satellite Meteorology. 3 Credits.

A study of remote sensing technologies for atmospheric applications. Topics include basic radiation and remote sensing methods, image data processing, atmospheric and geometric corrections, radiometric and geometric enhancements, image classification, and selected meteorological applications using satellite remote sensing. S, even years.

ATSC 548. Advanced Mesoscale Dynamics. 3 Credits.

An in-depth theoretical and analytical examination of mesoscale convective processes, initiation and characteristics; mesoscale features of tropical systems; orographically-forced and -influenced circulations; local and regional circulations; high-latitude mesoscale systems; an introduction to mesoscale model design, parameterization development, and evaluation. Prerequisite: Upper division or graduate course in dynamics or constent of instructor; ATSC 505 is a recommend corequisite but not required.

ATSC 441. Radar Meteorology. 4 Credits.

Advanced radar theory, including basic radar principles, digital processing of radar signals, Doppler radar principles, displays, polarization techniques, and characteristic returns. Includes laboratory. Prerequisite: ATSC 345 or consent of instructor. S, odd years.

ESSP 507. Earth Systems Processes and Vulnerability Analysis. 3 Credits.

Earth Systems Processes and Vulnerability Analysis (ESSP 507) will explore how humans exist on an active landscape. The course focuses on an understanding of the integration of the processes of physical Earth systems and the human vulnerability to hazards and Earth system syndromes related to these processes. The course also explores human vulnerability by analyzing spatial, numerical, and historical data, through spatial and statistical techniques. S.

clouds in atmosphere

Best Atmospheric Sciences College

Our atmospheric sciences program consistently ranks among the best for educational quality, affordability, and career outcomes.

#6 BEST ATMOSPHERIC SCIENCES COLLEGE

Knowledge to Lead

UND researchers recently received $1 million to study thunderstorms in Florida, giving students hands-on experience in the field.

Explore More Options

Check out the faculty you'll work with at UND or discover additional graduate education opportunities.

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