BSc in Atmospheric Science in Davis United States | University of California Davis

Atmospheric science explores the physics of our atmosphere, solar energy interactions, weather patterns, climate shifts, air quality issues, and other related phenomena within a unified field of study. This program offers comprehensive knowledge of atmospheric processes while making meaningful contributions to ecological and biological environmental studies. Students develop skills to assist populations in anticipating and managing extreme weather conditions including storms, extreme temperatures, cyclones, twisters, and water shortages. Graduates meet the qualifications for meteorologist positions with the National Weather Service. The curriculum starts with intensive training in math and core sciences before progressing to advanced classes in weather monitoring, data interpretation, and prediction systems, which serve as prerequisites for specialized meteorological studies. Complementing atmospheric science classes, students enroll in upper-level courses from other fields (like chemistry, environmental science, or coding) to enhance their grasp of contemporary weather science.

Students in this field have completed internships with organizations like the California Air Resources Board, regional air quality agencies, the National Weather Service, and research institutions. Career paths span: meteorological services for government or media outlets, private forecasting companies, environmental assessment consultancies (including renewable energy projects), municipal/state/federal agencies (from local planning departments to NOAA), and weather-sensitive industries (aviation, commodities trading, etc.). Approximately 50% of alumni pursue graduate degrees (M.S. or Ph.D.) in atmospheric sciences or connected disciplines.