Meteorology

  • Major
  • Minor

As a meteorology major at St. Cloud State University, you will examine and conduct research on short-term and long-term atmospheric changes. Through classes, fieldwork, and internships, you will be prepared for a wide variety of careers or for continued study in graduate school.  With a backdrop of academic rigor, your dedicated faculty teach in small class sizes, allowing for tailored individual instruction and promoting active learning both in and out of the classroom setting.

University Catalog Program Requirements Department Department of Atmospheric and Hydrologic Sciences Scholarships Atmospheric and Hydrologic Sciences Scholarships

Program Highlights

  • Foundation of physics and mathematics prepares graduates to follow new developments.
  • Smart classrooms, technology-enhanced lecture halls, and advanced laboratories located in the Robert H. Wick Science Building.
  • Active student organizations create opportunities for peer research, professional networking, educational outreach, and socializing.
  • Preparation for work in private and public sectors or continued study in graduate school 
  • Common careers associated with meteorology include private sector forecasting, emergency management, employment with the National Weather Service, broadcast meteorology, science communication, and research.
  • This discipline is also available as a minor to complement another major. 

Program Distinctions

  • Minnesota's only meteorology program.
  • Program meets American Meteorological Society guidelines and standards.
  • Program meets National Weather Service requirements with suitable elective choice. 
  • Host of the annual Northern Plains Weather Workshop.
  • Select laboratories, classes, and opportunities for collaborative VR/AR research projects in the Integrated Science and Engineering Laboratory Facility (ISELF).
  • Opportunities to participate in community-based education outreach events such as the National Weather Service's SkyWarn Program, Tech Savvy, Science Fest, and more.

 

Notable alumni:

Dr. David Novak Director, Weather Prediction Center, National Weather Service, Camp Springs, Maryland  
Michelle Mead Meteorologist in Charge, National Weather Service WFO, Sacramento, California               
Paul Iniguez Science and Operations Officer, National Weather Service WFO, Phoenix, Arizona
Pete Boulay Assistant State Climatologist of Minnesota, St. Paul
Amber Motley Short-Term Forecasting Manager, California ISO, Sacramento, California
Dr. Kirstin Harnos Atmospheric Scientist, Climate Prediction Center, Camp Springs, Maryland

Student Organizations

Popular Careers

  • Weather/Aviation Forecaster
  • Meteorologist
  • Climatologist
  • Broadcast Meteorologist
  • Atmospheric Scientist
  • Air Quality Controller
  • Forensic Meteorologist

Related Programs

University Facts & Stats

  • 98% of meteorology graduates employed

  • $600,000 National Science Foundation grant helps support students who pursue science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers

  • $106 million in scholarships loans and grants

  • More than 600 student veterans and active military enrolled

  • A 2021 Military Friendly® Top 10 School designation

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