University of Michigan

What you'll study

The programme combines core atmospheric science theory with applied skills in observation, modelling and data analysis. You will study fundamental topics such as atmospheric dynamics, thermodynamics, and physical meteorology alongside applied areas like synoptic meteorology, boundary-layer processes, and mesoscale systems.

• Core modules: atmospheric dynamics, physical meteorology, and thermodynamics.
• Modelling and prediction: numerical weather prediction, atmospheric modelling, and data assimilation techniques.
• Observations and remote sensing: satellite meteorology, radar meteorology, and in situ observing systems.
• Climate and variability: climate dynamics, climate variability and change, and paleoclimate methods.
• Quantitative methods: statistical analysis for atmospheric data, time series analysis, and computational methods (Python, MATLAB, or equivalent).

Programmes can be taken with a significant research component (thesis) or a coursework-oriented option, allowing you to tailor your degree to interests in operational forecasting, observational campaigns or model development. Students frequently participate in field campaigns, make use of university-run observational facilities, and engage with high-performance computing resources for model experiments.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in atmospheric science, physics, mathematics, engineering or a closely related discipline, with a strong record of quantitative coursework. Essential preparation typically includes calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, and introductory physics; familiarity with programming and statistics is highly desirable.

Applications should include official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research or career objectives, a curriculum vitae, and two or three academic or professional references. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to university requirements. Prospective students should consult the department for current details on any standardised test policies and specific prerequisites for particular research groups.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers across operational forecasting, climate science, environmental consulting, and related data-intensive roles. Typical employers and sectors include national meteorological services, government research laboratories, environmental and engineering consultancies, energy companies (particularly renewables and risk assessment), aviation and transport meteorology, and international agencies working on climate and disaster risk.

Many students continue to PhD study and move into academic or long-term research positions. The programme’s emphasis on numerical modelling, observation systems and data analysis also prepares graduates for roles in data science, machine learning applications to geosciences, and interdisciplinary environmental policy teams.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers a strong, interdisciplinary environment for atmospheric research, with faculty working across atmospheric dynamics, climate, remote sensing and air–sea–land interactions. Students benefit from departmental connections to national research centres and collaborations that support field work, observational campaigns and model development.

The university provides access to substantial computing resources, specialised instrumentation and regional observing opportunities useful for studying phenomena such as lake-effect processes. Located in a vibrant research and technology community, the programme also offers networking opportunities with government agencies, research laboratories and private-sector partners, supporting transition into operational and research careers.