Our graduate programs emphasize independent thinking and skills in analytical, numerical, and laboratory techniques to solving problems in weather, climate, and environmental change. Visit our atmospheric science pages to learn about potential areas of specialization.

The M.S. program consists of a rigorous training of students in atmospheric physics, thermodynamics, dynamics, radiative transfer, and their application in one of the areas of weather forecasting, satellite and conventional atmospheric data analysis, numerical modeling, and climate change. The program prepares students to gain strong communication, analytical and computer skills for positions in research, education, management, and environmental protection.

The Ph.D. program provides the same basic skills as the M.S. program, building on a flexible, interdisciplinary program and preparing students to become effective, independent problem solvers. Students will be free to emphasize their own interests in atmospheric science but are expected to acquire a broad base of interdisciplinary knowledge. Graduates are prepared to compete successfully for postdoctoral appointments and faculty appointments as well as positions directing research at government or industrial laboratories, and managerial positions at not-for-profit and government agencies.

Core Curriculum

Although both the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees are research-based, regular educational courses are a vital part of the SoMAS graduate program. They provide an efficient way for students from diverse backgrounds to arrive at a similar level of knowledge about marine systems and a mechanism for intellectual interaction within SoMAS.

The core courses for the Atmospheric Sciences track are Foundations of Atmospheric Sciences 1 and 11 (MAR541 & MAR 542), one of the four oceanography core courses (MAR 501, 502, 503, or 506), and three (for Ph.D. students) or two (for M.S. students) of the following five advanced courses: Atmospheric Physics (MAR 593), Atmospheric Dynamcis (MAR 594), Atmospheric Radiation (MAR 544), Atmospheric Chemistry (MAR 596), or Synoptic and Mesoscale Meteorology (MAR 598). In addition, students must sign up for two semesters of the atmospheric sciences graduate student seminar (MAR 595) and attend regular seminars.

Graduate Course Descriptions

Advising

SoMAS graduate students complete a thesis working closely with one or more of SoMAS's excellent faculty. By the end of their second semester of study, all students must choose an advisor who will guide their research, approve course selections, and oversee their efforts toward degree completion.

Prospective Students

Prospective students: To find a SoMAS faculty member whose research interests match yours, visit our faculty and research pages.