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Atmospheric Sciences Ph.D.

Gain deep expertise in atmospheric sciences and lead the way in tackling the challenges of understanding and predicting our atmosphere.

Advance your education and talent to the highest level. Our comprehensive curriculum will prepare you for a leadership role in research, private industry or teaching in a university setting.

Program type:
Doctoral Degree
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
4 years
Credit hours:
60

Why earn a Ph.D. 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.

The impact of global environmental changes makes qualified atmospheric scientists who can address and solve these challenges extremely valuable.

This UND Ph.D. program offers an advanced study in atmospheric sciences with opportunities to:

  • Be a part of significant research and discovery of new knowledge in the atmospheric sciences that can impact the world.
  • Contribute to atmospheric studies conducted in a wide array of vital areas, such as:
    • Cloud physics
    • Climate Change
    • Satellite and radar remote sensing 
    • Data assimilation
    • Mesoscale modeling

Atmospheric Sciences Ph.D. at UND

  • Enhance your analytical, technical and communication skills through research and course work.

  • Develop the ability to carry out independent and original scientific research.

  • Explore the theoretical, experimental and technological foundations of the field.

  • Prepare for leadership roles in research and education.

  • Study at a Carnegie R1 Institution ranked #151 by the NSF. Students are an integral part of UND research.

  • Conduct research using our instrumentation and high-performance computing resources.

Atmospheric Science Ph.D. Careers 

111K

Median annual salary for atmosphereic scientists, 2024

salary.com

6%

Projected job outlook for a meteorologist through 2033 (faster than average). The average growth rate for all occupations is 4 percent.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Be in demand. Our atmospheric science Ph.D. graduates:

  • Have a high level understanding of the complexities of the atmosphere
  • Are able to conduct exemplary research
  • Apply their knowledge to meet the needs of society

Graduates of this program will be prepared to assume critical roles in:

  • Leading research efforts
  • Guiding science policy
  • Educating future atmospheric scientists
  • Creating opportunities in industry

UND graduates can expect exciting opportunities with several leadership roles:

  • University professor
  • Chief scientist
  • Project manager
  • Senior scientist
  • Senior data analyst

Atmospheric Sciences Ph.D. Courses

ATSC 505. Advanced Atmospheric Dynamics. 4 Credits.

A graduate level course in linear perturbation theory, atmospheric oscillations, hydrodynamic instability and the life cycle of extratropical cyclones. F.

ATSC 535. Measurement Systems. 3 Credits.

An advanced course in meteorological measurement systems, including coverage of performance characteristics of sensors, calibration standards, measuring devices, the effects of making measurements in the atmospheric environment, meteorological measurement systems, and digital data logging and processing.

ATSC 528. Atmospheric Data Analysis. 3 Credits.

Introduction to techniques used in the analysis of meteorological data and methods for interpreting their effects: polynomial fitting, method of successive corrections, statistical methods, variational techniques, model initialization, data assimilation, and filter design. Prerequisite: Proficiency in a programming language.

ATSC 520. Atmospheric Chemistry. 3 Credits.

Composition of clean and polluted air. Sources and sinks of atmospheric gases and aerosols. The role of atmospheric chemistry in global environmental issues such as acid rain, visibility reduction, climatic change, oxidant enhancement, etc.

ATSC 553. Advanced Satellite Meteorology. 3 Credits.

Addresses advanced topics in satellite meteorology. Includes advanced topics in radiation, scattering by molecules and particles, and retrieval theory and methods for meteorological applications using passive and active satellite remote sensing. Prerequisite: ATSC 552 and ATSC 525. F, even years.

ATSC 565. Air Quality. 3 Credits.

An in-depth introduction to important areas within the air quality field. Topics covered include the physical and chemical nature of air pollutants; their sources, control, and transport through the atmosphere; their interaction with other atmospheric constituents; their removal through cloud processes, fallout and wet deposition; their effects on visibility, human health, ecosystems, and global climate. Methods related to the measurements of atmospheric pollutants, air quality modeling, and air quality forecasting are discussed. Prerequisite: CHEM 121 or equivalent, and PHYS 251 or equivalent.

Explore More Options

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

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