Cost & earnings at University of Colorado Boulder What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology graduates earn a median $35,238 Across 83 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Bachelor's in Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology at the University of Colorado Boulder is a science-focused undergraduate degree studying the physics, chemistry and dynamics of the atmosphere and weather systems. It suits students with strong mathematics and science backgrounds who want hands-on training in weather analysis, forecasting, environmental monitoring and climate research.
The programme combines fundamental coursework in mathematics and physics with core atmospheric science topics and practical laboratory and field experience. Core topics include atmospheric thermodynamics, fluid dynamics for the atmosphere, synoptic and mesoscale meteorology, atmospheric chemistry, climate science, and numerical weather prediction. Students also take courses in observational techniques such as radar and remote sensing, instrumentation and data analysis, and programming for atmospheric applications (commonly using Python and scientific computing tools).
The degree is structured to be completed over four years, with progressive preparation: lower-division maths and science in the first two years, core and applied atmospheric courses in later years, and elective or specialised courses plus a capstone research or practicum experience in the final year. Students may customise their pathway with electives in climate policy, hydrology, environmental science, or computational science.
Typical entry requires a completed secondary-school qualification with strong grades in mathematics (calculus preferred), physics and ideally chemistry. Successful applicants demonstrate proficiency in algebra, trigonometry and introductory calculus, and show readiness for rigorous quantitative coursework. Accepted credentials vary by country; standard US applicants typically present a high-school diploma with competitive GPAs and a strong science course load.
Transfer applicants are usually expected to have completed relevant college-level calculus and science prerequisites and to meet a minimum college GPA set by the university. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and submit qualifications equivalent to US secondary education. Admission is competitive and also considers recommendation letters, personal statements and any relevant extracurricular experience such as science research or meteorology clubs.
Graduates pursue diverse careers across public, private and academic sectors. Common career paths include operational meteorology and forecasting with national weather services and regional forecast offices; applied meteorology roles in aviation, energy, and agriculture; climate science and impact assessment; and atmospheric chemistry or air-quality consulting. The degree also prepares students for data-focused roles such as atmospheric data analyst or positions in insurance and risk assessment that require environmental hazard expertise.
Many graduates continue to postgraduate study (master's or PhD) in atmospheric sciences, climate science, hydrology or related fields, particularly those aiming for research or university careers. The programme’s emphasis on numerical modelling, remote sensing and programming also equips students for careers in environmental technology, geoscience software development and scientific instrumentation.
The University of Colorado Boulder offers strong connections to major federal and research organisations located in the region, providing unique internship and research opportunities. Students benefit from collaborations with nearby centres such as the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) laboratories, and research institutes that foster hands-on experience in observational campaigns, instrument testing and model development.
The campus location near the Rocky Mountains provides distinct observational and field-study advantages for learning mountain meteorology, convection and orographic precipitation processes. Undergraduate students can access faculty-led research projects, modern radar and remote-sensing facilities, and a curriculum that emphasises both theoretical understanding and practical forecasting and measurement skills. These features make the programme particularly appealing to students aiming for careers in operational meteorology, climate research and applied atmospheric sciences.
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