Colorado State University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, hands‑on observational and modelling experience, and original research. Students typically take core courses in atmospheric thermodynamics, mesoscale and synoptic meteorology, dynamics of the atmosphere, and cloud microphysics. Supporting modules often include numerical weather prediction, atmospheric chemistry and aerosol processes, boundary‑layer meteorology, satellite and radar remote sensing, and data assimilation.

• Core skills development in dynamical meteorology, physical meteorology and applied statistics for atmospheric data.
• Practical training in programming and modelling (e.g. Python, model frameworks such as the Weather Research and Forecasting model), observational techniques and instrumentation.
• Seminar and journal‑club participation to engage with current research literature and departmental projects.
• Research thesis or professional project option: students undertake an original research project under faculty supervision, often incorporating field observations, remote sensing or numerical modelling.

Course load and exact module offerings can be tailored to a student’s interests—whether focused on operational forecasting, severe storms, climate dynamics, air quality, or remote sensing—and the department encourages participation in field campaigns and collaborative research with partner agencies.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in atmospheric science, meteorology, physics, engineering, mathematics or a closely related quantitative discipline. Successful candidates typically have a strong foundation in calculus and differential equations, physics (mechanics and thermodynamics), and introductory atmospheric science. Prior exposure to programming and statistics is highly recommended.

• Academic transcript(s) and a degree in a relevant subject.
• Statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals.
• Letters of recommendation, preferably from academic referees familiar with the applicant’s quantitative and research potential.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé detailing relevant coursework, research, and technical skills.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests and score requirements are set by the university).

Admissions may consider applicants from allied disciplines who demonstrate sufficient background in mathematics, physics and computing; such applicants may be admitted conditionally and asked to complete preparatory coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles in public, private and academic sectors. Common career paths include:

• Operational meteorology and forecasting with national weather services, regional forecast offices, and private weather firms.
• Climate science and research positions in universities, government laboratories and research institutes.
• Air‑quality and environmental consulting for industry and regulatory agencies.
• Remote sensing and satellite data analysis roles with space agencies and commercial remote‑sensing companies.
• Data science, risk management and renewable energy forecasting (wind and solar) roles that leverage atmospheric data and modelling skills.
• Further doctoral study for those pursuing research careers in atmospheric science.

The programme’s emphasis on practical modelling, observational techniques and collaboration with external agencies helps graduates to move into both operational and research positions.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University’s Department of Atmospheric Science is recognised for sustained strengths in severe weather, mesoscale dynamics, climate and air‑quality research. Located in Fort Collins, the department benefits from proximity to varied terrain and weather regimes that are excellent for observational studies and field campaigns.

• Students have access to departmental instrumentation and observational networks, radar and remote‑sensing facilities, and high‑performance computing resources used in atmospheric modelling.
• Strong links and collaborative research opportunities with national and regional organisations in atmospheric and environmental sciences support internships and applied projects.
• Faculty expertise spans numerical weather prediction, convection and severe storms, atmospheric chemistry, boundary‑layer processes and remote sensing—allowing students to pursue a broad range of research topics.
• The university’s active research environment and seminar series expose students to current science and to potential employers in government, industry and academia.

Overall, the programme offers a balance of theoretical foundation, technical training and applied research that prepares graduates for scientific and operational careers in atmospheric science.