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Atmospheric Sciences ,Certificate

Atmospheric Sciences, Certificate

Academic programs / Undergraduate minors and certificates / Atmospheric Sciences

Climate, Climatology, Environment, Meteorology, Weather

Gain extensive knowledge of the study and practice of meteorology and climatology. Prepare to become even more competitive for positions in your primary field of study with intersections in meteorology.
Description ▲

Students in the atmospheric sciences certificate program gain a focused understanding of weather, climate and the various related methods of measurement and instrumentation. The coursework is designed to give students the knowledge and skill set necessary to approach meteorology-related programs through the lens of their primary field of study.

The certificate program's curriculum is also associated with the requirements for certification as a meteorologist by the National Weather Service. By completing the atmospheric sciences certificate and the Bachelor of Science program in geography with a concentration in meteorology-climatology, students acquire geographic information systems expertise and the meteorological instrumentation skills required for national-level certification with the National Weather Service.

At a glance ▲

Curriculum ▲
View curriculum archives
Requirement Minimum Grade Credit Hours
The certificate requires 19 credit hours with a "C" (2.00 on a 4.00 scale) or higher. At least 12 of the 19 credit hours must be upper-division coursework.
GPH 213: Climate and Weather (SCIT) AND GPH 215: Climate and Weather Laboratory (SCIT)
4 Credit Hours
Minimum Grade:C
 C 4
GPH 412: Physical Meteorology
3 Credit Hours
Minimum Grade:C
 C 3
GPH 413: Meteorological Instruments and Measurement
3 Credit Hours
Minimum Grade:C
 C 3
GPH 414: Climate Change (SUST)
3 Credit Hours
Minimum Grade:C
 C 3
MAT 275: Modern Differential Equations (MATH)
3 Credit Hours
Minimum Grade:C
 C 3
3 Credit Hours
Minimum Grade:C
 C 3
Notes
Prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this certificate.

Enrollment requirements ▲

Applicants must have completed GPH 111 Introduction to Physical Geography, MAT 271 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II, and PHY 121 University Physics I: Mechanics with a grade of "C" or higher (scale is 4.00 = "A").

A student pursuing an undergraduate certificate must be enrolled as a degree-seeking student at ASU. Undergraduate certificates are not awarded before the completion of an undergraduate degree. A student who already holds an undergraduate degree may pursue an undergraduate certificate as a nondegree-seeking graduate student.
Program learning outcomes▲

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:

  • Apply analytical skills to compute specific variables associated with the fundamental atmospheric energy balance relationship.
  • Apply knowledge of climate change theories and reconstruction of past climates to specific theoretical world constructs.
Career opportunities▲

A certificate in atmospheric sciences is a valuable addition to a degree for graduates seeking a career in which understanding weather systems is beneficial, including fields related to sustainability and resource management.

Graduates who have earned both the certificate in atmospheric sciences and the BS degree in geography with a concentration in meteorology-climatology are prepared for careers as meteorologists, such as broadcast meteorologists with the National Weather Service. They are also prepared to continue their studies for an advanced degree.
Contact information▲
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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