Atmospheric Science

The Bachelor of Science in Atmospheric Science (B.S.) is designed to meet the recommendations of the American Meteorological Society for a bachelor's degree in meteorology/atmospheric science. There are four options, each of which meet these recommendations.

1. General Option This option is for students who want a broad background in atmospheric science. It is also the most suitable option for those who are aiming at a career in weather forecasting. It includes a third semester of synoptic meteorology as well as an air pollution course.
   
   Atmo. Sci. B.S.: General Option- Requirement check sheet (PDF document)
   
   
2. Air Pollution Option Students prepare for a career emphasizing environmental aspects of meteorology. This option includes an additional semester of chemistry as well as environmental studies.
   
   Atmo. Sci. B.S.: Air Pollution Option- Requirement check sheet (PDF document)
   
   
3. Hydrometeorology Option Students prepare for a career involving the interface between meteorology and hydrology. These studies have important applications to flash floods, droughts and water supply. This option includes additional courses on fluid flow and hydrology from the School of Engineering.
   
   Atmo. Sci. B.S.: Hydrometeorology Option- Requirement check sheet (PDF document)
   
   
4. News Media Option This option is for students who wish to enter careers whose main function is to provide information to the general public. It requires additional courses from the School of Journalism.
   
   Atmo. Sci. B.S.: News Media Option- Requirement check sheet (PDF document)
   
   

This guide uses worksheets to show the course requirements for each degree. It is highly recommended that students consult a faculty advisor when preparing their course of study. Members of the undergraduate committee are always available for advising and to help solve program and curriculum problems. We also recommend that, at the outset of their studies, students talk to a number of faculty members in the department about their interests. This will help in the selection of courses that best match individual interests. It will also help identify special courses or research opportunities that might enhance the overall educational experience at the University of Kansas. Finally, the University has special scholarships for undergraduate research programs, and we highly recommend you consider the Study Abroad Program for a semester or summer. You should consider this before your junior year.

During the final year in the program, students are required to do a graduation check. Final degree checks are done by the Student Academic Services staff of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (109 Strong Hall). As part of this check, students will also need to meet with the Undergraduate Advisor in the Geography Department to check the Atmospheric Science major requirements. It is strongly recommended that students consult with an Atmospheric Science advisor on a regular basis to make certain that, at each stage in their program, they are meeting all of the requirements for the degree. It is important to be certain that the major requirements and those of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are correct on the ARTS (Academic Requirements Tracking System) form.

Cost of Attendance

Contact

For more information, contact:

Advisor for Atmospheric Science undergrads
David Mechem
Department of Geography, Atmospheric Science Program
Lindley Hall
1475 Jayhawk Blvd., Room 230
Lawrence, KS 66045-7613
Phone: 785-864-5707
Fax: 785-864-5378
Email: dmechem@ku.edu