Bachelor of Science in Atmospheric Science

Atmospheric science is the study of physics, solar radiation, meteorological processes, climate change and variations, air pollution, and more all wrapped up in one discipline. You can gain a broad background on atmospheric science while also having an influence on human ecology and environmental biology. This major will provide you the ability to help communities prepare for and respond to severe weather events such as floods, heat waves, hurricanes, tornadoes and droughts. Our graduates are qualified to become National Weather Service meteorologists. You will begin your studies by developing a strong foundation in mathematics and the natural sciences. At the upper-division level, you will take a series of courses in weather observation, analysis and forecasting as the groundwork for the courses in specialized weather and science topics that follow. In addition to your coursework in atmospheric science, you will take advanced courses in other disciplines (such as chemistry, environmental studies or computer programming) to broaden your understanding of modern meteorology.

Atmospheric science students have participated in internships with the California Air Resources Board, various county Air Pollution Control Districts, the National Weather Service, and performing research. Job opportunities include: national weather services, weather forecasting for broadcast media or private forecasting firms, environmental consulting firms (such as environmental impact reports, wind farm siting), government agencies at all levels from local (air quality districts, planning departments, etc.) to state (Air Resources Board) to national (NOAA), and companies whose operations are impacted by weather (such as airlines, futures markets). About half of our graduates continue their education by seeking an M.S. or Ph.D. degree in atmospheric science or related areas.