What is the Study of Meteorology?
Meteorology is more than just the study of
weather; it includes all the characteristics, structure and
processes of the atmosphere. Basic principles of physics and
chemistry are applied to discover what makes our atmosphere
work. Mathematical equations and techniques are used to
predict weather based on present conditions.
Recently, meteorology has become increasingly
vital to humankind's concerns. Ozone depletion and global
warming have been identified as threats to our existence on
earth. Meteorologists are on the front lines of the battle to
learn more about and model these phenomena.
The Department of Earth and Atmospheric
Science
Meteorology is part of the atmospheric
sciences and is housed within the Department of Earth and
Atmospheric Sciences at Saint Louis University. In this
program you will learn not only theory about the atmosphere, but
also practical techniques for the analysis of weather and
climate. Since class sizes are relatively small, an effective
relationship develops between the student and the instructor.
This personalized teaching mode stimulates academic interest and
professional dedication among students. This is further
strengthened by the Jesuit tradition of education.
There are two degree options:
B.A. in Meteorology: The emphasis is on
an integration of studies in meteorology as a major with other
disciplines such as communication and computer sciences.
B.S. in Meteorology: The emphasis is on
professional recognition, admission into graduate schools and
employment with the National Weather Service. Most of our
students pursue this degree. The American Meteorological
Society readily accepts B.S. degree holders as members.
Both degree programs require a minimum of 128
hours coursework, including the completion of the core requirements
(English, History, etc.). These courses are to be carefully
selected with the consultation of an advisor. The average
course load is 12 hours to 18 hours per semester. Some of the
meteorology courses also count toward obtaining an
environmental science minor.
Unique Features of Our Program
Students in the Meteorology program at Saint
Louis University can take advantage of a unique opportunity, in that
the National Weather Service (NWS) Forecast Office is located fairly
close to the University. Classes take field trips to the
office to see the Doppler radar imagery of storms.
There are four commercial TV stations in the
St. Louis area that regularly feature weather reports.
Internships are also available with these stations. You can
earn six hours of credit toward your degree through an internship,
which is usually nonpaying.
Saint Louis University has a rooftop
observatory and an Electrical Field Mill.
In addition, the University is a charter
member of the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, which
operates the National Center for Atmospheric Research.
Undergraduate students can visit this center during summers for
research.
Meteorology
Undergraduate Handbook (pdf format)
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