Atmospheric science involves studying the blanket of air covering the earth.
Meteorologists use sophisticated computer models of the atmosphere to forecast weather. Employment of atmospheric scientists is expected to grow by 15 percent through 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. Median annual wages of atmospheric scientists in May 2008 were $81,290. In New England, meteorology studies are especially challenging because of the region's history of blizzards, hurricanes, thunderstorms and floods, according to TheBostonChannel.com. Several colleges in New England offer meteorology programs that give students the scientific background and technical skills they need to succeed in this field.
Western Connecticut State University
Only one college in Connecticut offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in meteorology studies--Western Connecticut State University in Danbury. You can pursue a bachelor's degree, focusing on theoretical meteorology or operational meteorology/weathercasting. The school also offers a master's degree program in earth and planetary sciences. Course topics include general physics, general astronomy, physical geology and physical oceanography. Students also take classes on atmospheric thermodynamics, weather analysis and climatology. The school has a meteorological studies and weather center to enhance students' research skills, and it offers hands-on experience with a daily television weathercasting show. Founded in 1903, Western Connecticut is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, according to FastWeb.com.
Western Connecticut State University
181 White St.
Danbury, CT 06810
877-837-9278
wcsu.edu/physics/meteorology.asp
Lyndon State College
Lyndon State College in Lyndonville, Vermont, offers a bachelor's degree program in atmospheric sciences. Students can concentrate in such areas as broadcasting, private industry, environmental sciences or climate change. Course topics include mesoscale meteorology, remote sensing, geographic information systems and even air pollution meteorology. The school offers a certificate of post-baccalaureate study in atmospheric sciences. In addition, students can take a few courses online. The school features a 24-hour weather center, live weather broadcasting, a 2,000-square-foot observation deck and two labs. The Vermont Institute of Applied Meteorology at Lyndon State College also offers paid internships in research and weather forecasting. The department of atmospheric sciences was founded in 1974. The college is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Lyndon State College
1001 College Road
Lyndonville, VT 05851
802-626-6413
meteorology.lyndonstate.edu
Plymouth State University
Plymouth State University in Plymouth, New Hampshire, is the only institution in the state to offer a bachelor's degree program in meteorology. Students receive theoretical and applied meteorology training as well as independent research and operational meteorology opportunities. Students also can pursue degrees in atmospheric sciences combined with such fields as journalism, mathematics or computer science. A master's degree in applied meteorology also is available. Founded in 1871, Plymouth State University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, according to Careers.org.
Plymouth State University
17 High St.
Plymouth, NH 03264
603-535-5000
plymouth.edu
Tags: State University, atmospheric sciences, Lyndon State, Lyndon State College, Plymouth State, Plymouth State University
