Valparaiso University

What you'll study

This programme provides a comprehensive foundation in atmospheric physics, dynamics and observational techniques. Core topics include synoptic and mesoscale meteorology, atmospheric thermodynamics, boundary‑layer processes, physical meteorology, cloud and precipitation physics, and climatology. You will also study related physical sciences that support meteorology: calculus, linear algebra, classical mechanics, thermodynamics, and introductory radiation physics.

Practical and applied work is emphasised. Typical modules and activities include:

• Observational Meteorology and Weather Analysis — interpreting surface and upper‑air observations, soundings and weather charts.
• Numerical Weather Prediction and Atmospheric Modelling — introduction to model theory, setup and verification; hands‑on work with operational model output.
• Remote Sensing and Radar Meteorology — satellite imagery, Doppler radar fundamentals and applications.
• Atmospheric Instrumentation and Field Methods — operation of surface stations, radiosonde launches, and data quality control.
• Programming for Atmospheric Science — scientific computing and data analysis using languages commonly used in the field (for example Python); data visualisation and scripting for automated workflows.
• Climate Science and Trends — climate variability, climate forcing mechanisms and impacts at regional scales, with attention to Great Lakes influences.
• Capstone/Research Project — an independent or faculty‑mentored project that integrates observational, modelling or data‑analysis skills.

Lab and experiential components are integrated throughout the curriculum, and students are encouraged to pursue internships with government, private sector and media partners to build practical forecasting and communication skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in mathematics and the physical sciences. Successful candidates typically have completed:

• Four years of mathematics including algebra, geometry and precalculus; coursework in calculus is strongly advised or required.
• High school physics; chemistry is recommended.
• Demonstrated competence with quantitative problem solving and familiarity with computer use.

Admissions review considers the overall academic record, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement describing interest in atmospheric science. Standardised tests may be optional depending on Valparaiso University admissions policies; international applicants will need to meet English language proficiency requirements by providing recognised test scores or equivalent evidence of proficiency.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a range of careers across public, private and academic sectors. Common career paths include:

• Operational meteorology and forecasting with government agencies (for example local or national weather services), utilities and emergency management.
• Broadcast meteorology and science communication roles in television, radio and online media.
• Positions in private weather and climate services — energy, aviation, agriculture, insurance and renewable resource companies that use weather intelligence.
• Environmental consulting and air‑quality roles where atmospheric science informs regulatory and mitigation work.
• Research and graduate study in atmospheric science, climatology, ocean‑atmosphere interactions or related geosciences.

Students build employable skills in data analysis, numerical modelling, instrumentation and technical communication; internships and faculty‑mentored projects frequently help secure entry‑level positions or admission to postgraduate programmes.

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University offers a small‑class environment with close faculty mentorship, enabling undergraduates to participate directly in research and applied projects. The campus’s location in the Great Lakes region gives students rich exposure to mesoscale and lake‑effect phenomena that are important in teaching and research. The university emphasises experiential learning — the atmospheric sciences curriculum is designed so that students gain practical forecasting experience, laboratory skills and internship placements.

Beyond academics, students benefit from interdisciplinary connections across physics, environmental studies and computer science, plus career services that support internships and job placements. The programme prepares graduates for both immediate entry into weather‑related careers and for further study in atmospheric and climate sciences.