University of Dayton

What you'll study

The curriculum provides a foundation in atmospheric physics and dynamics, together with practical skills in observation, data analysis and numerical modelling. Courses are organised to build from introductory topics through to advanced, specialised modules and independent research.

• Core atmospheric topics: synoptic and dynamic meteorology, atmospheric thermodynamics, climatology, atmospheric chemistry and mesoscale meteorology.
• Mathematics and physics: calculus, differential equations, linear algebra and introductory physics to support quantitative analysis of atmospheric processes.
• Data and computing: courses in computer programming for science, numerical weather prediction, remote sensing and radar meteorology, and data assimilation techniques.
• Laboratory and field work: hands-on labs in observational techniques, instrument calibration, weather station operation and field campaigns to collect and analyse atmospheric data.
• Applied and interdisciplinary options: air quality, climate variability and change, environmental policy interfaces, and aviation meteorology.
• Capstone and research: an upper-level capstone project or honours thesis under faculty supervision, often involving original data analysis, modelling or a forecasting practicum.

Students typically progress from introductory science and math courses into specialised atmospheric classes and choose electives or minors that complement career aims, such as environmental science, computer science, or engineering. Opportunities for internships and collaborative projects with research groups are integrated into the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have strong preparation in mathematics and physical science from secondary school. Successful candidates typically present study or experience that demonstrates quantitative ability and familiarity with physics or chemistry.

• Academic preparation: secondary-school credentials with solid performance in mathematics (including algebra and preferably calculus) and physics. Coursework in chemistry or earth sciences is advantageous.
• Recommended skills: competence in algebraic problem solving, data interpretation and an interest in computing; prior exposure to programming or statistics is helpful but not always required.
• International students and language: evidence of English proficiency is required for applicants whose schooling was not in English.
• Transfer and advanced standing: transfer applicants may receive credit for comparable university-level calculus, physics or introductory atmospheric courses; transcripts and syllabi are assessed individually.

Career prospects

Graduates go into a range of roles in government, private industry and research, or continue to postgraduate study. The programme prepares students for practical forecasting, data analysis and scientific communication.

• Operational meteorologist or forecaster for national and regional weather services and emergency management agencies.
• Broadcast meteorologist and weather communicator for television, online and multimedia outlets.
• Atmospheric scientist in research institutions or universities, often following further study at master’s or doctoral level.
• Environmental consultant or air quality specialist advising on emissions, regulatory compliance and health impacts.
• Aviation or marine meteorology roles providing specialised weather support to airports, airlines and shipping operations.
• Technical roles in private weather services, energy companies, insurance and agriculture that require climate and weather risk assessment.

Why study at University of Dayton

The University of Dayton offers a supportive, undergraduate-focused environment with small class sizes and hands-on learning. Students benefit from close faculty mentoring, opportunities to take part in active research projects, and practical forecasting experience.

• Access to laboratory and computing resources that support observational training and numerical modelling.
• Strong links to regional employers and agencies that facilitate internships, cooperative experiences and applied projects.
• An interdisciplinary approach that allows students to combine atmospheric science with complementary fields such as engineering, environmental science or data analytics.
• Faculty engaged in research and applied work who supervise undergraduate research and capstone projects.