University of Washington

Overview

The Master of Science (MSc) in Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Washington offers students an in-depth understanding of the atmosphere, encompassing weather systems, radiation, cloud formation, chemistry, and fluid dynamics. This research-driven program is designed for those passionate about exploring atmospheric phenomena and contributing to advancements in the field.

What you'll study

The MSc program is structured to provide a strong foundation in atmospheric sciences through a combination of coursework and research. The first year primarily focuses on core courses, while the second year is dedicated to thesis research.

Year 1

• Core coursework: Students engage in foundational studies in atmospheric physics and quantitative methods.
• First Year Seminar: Following the first summer, students present a ~20-minute overview of their thesis progress, including objectives and methodologies.

Year 2 (and beyond, if needed)

• Thesis research: Students conduct research under the guidance of a faculty adviser.
• Additional coursework/electives: As determined by the supervisory committee and the student's study plan.
• Thesis writing: Students adhere to Graduate School guidelines for thesis preparation.
• Oral presentation and defense: Students present their findings to faculty and peers, culminating in approval from the Supervisory Committee.

Representative course topics

• Physical Meteorology
• Synoptic Meteorology
• Atmospheric Radiation
• Cloud Physics
• Atmospheric Chemistry
• Fluid Dynamics
• Geophysical Fluid Dynamics

Entry requirements

• Minimum GPA: A GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is expected from undergraduate coursework.
• Competitive admission: Admission is selective; meeting minimum criteria does not guarantee acceptance.
• GRE: The GRE is not a requirement for admission to the Atmospheric Sciences program.
• Self-reported GRE: Any self-reported GRE scores will not be considered and will be removed during the application evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc in Atmospheric Sciences can pursue diverse career paths in academia, government agencies, environmental organizations, and the private sector. Opportunities may include roles in research, meteorology, climate science, and atmospheric consulting, among others. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills required to address complex atmospheric challenges and contribute to scientific advancements in the field.