Download Meteorology - University of Northern Colorado

Meteorology
Major: Earth Sciences
Emphasis: Meteorology
Degree: Bachelor of Science
Introduction
The UNC Meteorology program has two goals: 1) a strong foundation in the sciences preparing students for graduate
school and 2) providing the experience necessary to be ready to take a job in weather forecasting. The science of meteorology seeks to understand the atmosphere and its phenomena by considering the forces that act on it, the processes
that determine its behavior, and the interaction between it and the earth beneath.
This program provides a broad background in meteorology and stresses practical interpretation of weather data and the
importance of meteorology to many aspects of human endeavor. The course requirements assure that our graduates
meet all of the requirements for certification with the American Meteorology Society (AMS) and the National Weather
Association (NWA).
What are some potential
occupations?
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Agricultural Meteorologist
Air Pollution Specialist
Astronomer
Atmospheric Scientist
Aviation Meteorologist
Broadcast Journalist
Climatologist
Consultant
Dynamic Meteorologist
Environmental Scientist
Hydrologist
Laboratory Technician
Meteorological Technician
Operational Meteorologist
Physical Meteorologist
Pollution Control Technician
Weather Forecaster
Note: For information regarding level of education trends
for the above occupations, please visit: www.onetonline.org
What are some of the job tasks?
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Analyze atmospheric gases and the environment
Collaborate with atmospheric chemists
Help to determine weather forecasts
Interpret radar and satellite images and data
Make weather predictions
Model weather using computers
Monitor air pollution
Monitor and forecast daily weather
Research and track severe systems
Study sources, transport, and chemical changes
that cause global warming
What are some desirable personal
qualities?
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Attention to detail and accuracy
Computer literacy
Curiosity and an analytical mind
Effectively evaluate complex data
High-tech skills
Legal and spatial reasoning skills
Mathematical knowledge
Problem solving capabilities
Strong observation skills
Strong problem-solving skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Work well with a team
Who hires?
Additional Information
Private Sector
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Aerospace Firms
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Airlines
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Colleges/Universities
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Manufacturers
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Mining Companies
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Private Consulting Firms
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Radio Stations
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Scientific Instrumentation
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Television Stations
Experience acquired through internships or cooperative
education programs can prove valuable in obtaining fulltime employment after graduation.
Public Sector
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Bureau of Land Management
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Colleges/Universities
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Department of Agriculture
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Department of Defense/Military
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Department of Energy
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Department of Transportation
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Many State-Level Environmental and Health
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National Forest Service
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National Weather Service
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United Airlines
Individuals interested in pursuing careers in research and
development generally need graduate degrees. Employment opportunities increase with a Master’s Degree and
a PhD is often a requirement for positions involving substantial amounts of research.
Whom should I contact for further
information?
University of Northern Colorado
College of Natural and Health Sciences
William H. Hoyt, Ph.D., Department Chair
Ross Hall Room 3235
Greeley, CO 80639
970.351.2647
http://esci.unco.edu
American Meteorological Society
www.ametsoc.org
National Weather Association
www.nwas.org
A Bachelor’s Degree in Meteorology or Atmospheric Science is recommended for entry level positions. Within
the degree programs, employers look for a good mix of
courses in physical science, statistics, chemistry, climatology, hydrology, computer science, and thermodynamics.
Meteorologists are employed in government and in the
private sector.
Online Internship Information
Career Services/Bears Career Connection
www.unco.edu/careers
- Click on the BCC link, log-in using your Ursa
username, and go to Jobs & Internships
National Audubon Society
www.audubon.org/jobs
National Weather Service
www.nws.noaa.gov
Student Conservation Association
www.thesca.org/employment
Weyerhaeuser
www.weyerhaeuser.com/Company/Careers