University of Kansas

What you'll study

The programme combines core training in dynamic and synoptic meteorology with applied subjects in observational techniques, numerical weather prediction and atmospheric physics. Typical topics and modules include:

• Dynamic and synoptic meteorology – atmospheric dynamics, large‑scale circulation, frontogenesis and cyclogenesis.
• Mesoscale and severe-storm processes – convective storm dynamics, boundary-layer interactions and mesoscale modelling.
• Numerical weather prediction and data assimilation – model formulation, model evaluation and techniques for assimilating observations into forecasts.
• Radar and remote sensing – Doppler radar interpretation, satellite meteorology and observational networks.
• Atmospheric physics and chemistry – cloud microphysics, radiative transfer and air quality topics.
• Statistics and data analysis – applied statistics, time‑series analysis and machine learning methods for atmospheric data.

Students normally follow a programme of coursework and research. The department offers opportunities for fieldwork and hands‑on experience with radar, surface observing systems and operational forecasting tools, and students complete a substantial research project or thesis under faculty supervision. Elective options let students tailor their study towards forecasting, climate variability, remote sensing, or environmental applications.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in atmospheric science, meteorology, physics, mathematics, engineering or a closely related quantitative discipline. Typical academic preparation includes coursework in calculus, differential equations, physics (mechanics and thermodynamics), and introductory atmospheric science. Programming experience (for example in Python, Fortran, MATLAB or similar) and exposure to statistics or numerical methods are strongly recommended.

Admission normally requires a transcript of academic records, a statement of purpose, and academic references. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency as required by the university. Some applicants with relevant professional experience but a non‑standard academic background may be considered if they demonstrate the necessary quantitative preparation.

Career prospects

Graduates with a master’s in atmospheric sciences from the University of Kansas go into a range of careers across government, private sector and academia. Typical roles include:

• Operational meteorologist or forecaster with national and regional weather services or private forecasting companies.
• Research scientist in academia or national laboratories, working on topics such as severe storms, mesoscale dynamics, climate variability or atmospheric chemistry.
• Atmospheric data scientist or model developer, applying numerical modelling and data assimilation techniques.
• Environmental consultant focusing on air quality, emissions modelling, or impacts of weather and climate on infrastructure and agriculture.
• Broadcast meteorology and science communication, leveraging forecasting and observational skills to provide weather information to the public.

The programme also provides solid preparation for students who wish to continue to doctoral study and pursue academic or advanced research careers.

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas has a long-established Department of Atmospheric Science with active research in mesoscale meteorology, radar and remote sensing, boundary‑layer processes and numerical modelling. Its central‑U.S. location provides frequent opportunities to study convective storms and severe weather dynamics, and students benefit from hands‑on training with campus observational facilities and forecasting tools.

Students work closely with faculty on faculty‑led research projects and field campaigns, and the department maintains collaborations with regional National Weather Service offices, federal research programmes and private meteorological firms, supporting internship and employment pathways. The department’s combination of observational, theoretical and modelling strengths makes it well suited for students seeking applied and research careers in atmospheric science.