Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences: Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences Emphasis
Program Overview
Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences: Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences Emphasis
Overview
Meteorologists and atmospheric scientists are on the front lines of those understanding drought, flooding, air quality, and severe weather. They also study how climate change impacts our atmospheric behavior and what can be done to address societal impacts. Students earning a Bachelor of Science in Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences with an emphasis in Meteorology & Atmospheric Sciences will focus on understanding weather and climate behavior, analyzing and evaluating data from various sources (such as satellites), and communicating impacts and solutions to fellow scientists and the public. This program adheres to the requirements of the National Weather Service, the American Meteorological Society, and the World Meteorological Organization, which prepares students to work in a variety of careers including governmental agencies, energy corporations, and consulting firms. They are also prepared to enter graduate school.
Program Details
Sample Courses
- ATMO 180 Severe Weather & Climate Change Impacts
- ATMO 436a: Weather Fundamentals
- ATMO 474A: Weather Analysis and Forecasting I
Career Fields
- Meteorology
- Environmental consulting
- Water resources management
- Forestry
- Sustainability
- Emergency Management and Planning
- Research
- Insurance
Level of Math
Substantial Knowledge
This strand involves skill and facility with calculus. The S-strand begins at one of two calculus options - MATH 122A/B (Functions for Calculus and First-Semester Calculus) or MATH 125 (Calculus I). Students who successfully complete the S-strand may continue on to MATH 129 (Calculus II), MATH 223 (Vector Calculus), or beyond. Those who choose but are not ready to begin the S-strand will be required to take preparatory work.
Level of Second Language
2nd Semester Proficiency
Second-semester skill level in a second language is required. Non-B.A. degree students may fulfill this requirement with one of the following options: 1. Scoring the equivalent of second-semester skill level on an entrance or placement examination administered by The University of Arizona. 2. Completion with a C or better of a second semester course at the post-secondary level. 3. An AP (Advanced Placement), IB (International Baccalaureate) or CLEP (College Level Entrance Program) language score determined by the individual language department. 4. In the College of Engineering by a method determined within the College; however, all students in the college must also take a language placement examination on entrance to the University.
Pre-major Required?
No
This Major's College
College of Science
Degree
Bachelor of Science
Sample Plans
2025, Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences: Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences Emphasis
- 4-Year Sample Plan
- Map Transfer Coursework
First Year
1st Semester
- GE Foundation Second Language (Second Semester)
- MATH 122b or MATH 125 -Calculus I (GE Foundation Math)
- Introductory Chemistry I (Lecture + Lab)
- ENGL 101 - First Year Writing 1 (GE Foundation Composition)
2nd Semester
- MATH 129- Calculus II
- Introductory Chemistry II (Lecture + Lab)
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives
- ENGL 102 - First Year Writing 2 (GE Foundation Composition)
- HWRS 195a- Careers in Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences
- Introduction to the General Education Experience (Entry Course)
Second Year
3rd Semester
- MATH 223- Vector Calculus
- HWRS 350- Principles of Hydrology
- GEOG 330- Introduction to Remote Sensing
- PHYS 141- Introduction to Mechanics
- GE Core Building Connections
4th Semester
- Computer Programming (CSC 110 recommended)
- MATH 254- Introduction to Ordinary Differential Equations
- ATMO 436A- Weather Fundamentals
- PHYS 142 - Introduction to Optics and Thermodynamics
- GE Core Exploring Perspectives
Third Year
5th Semester
- ATMO 441A- Dynamic Meteorology I
- Probability & Statistics Course (SIE 305 or DATA 363)
- Intro Climate Course (ATMO 336, GEOG 230, or GEOS 342)
- GE Core Building Connections
- Computational Theme Elective (such as HWRS 401 Data Handling in Water, Weather, & Climate )
6th Semester
- ATMO 441B- Dynamic Meteorology II
- Technical Elective (such as GEOS 483- Modes of Climate Variability)
- Technical Writing & Communication Theme Elective
- GE Core Exploring Perspectives
- Water, Policy, Law, and Economics Theme Elective
Fourth Year
7th Semester
- ATMO 474A- Weather Analysis and Forecasting I
- ATMO 451A- Physical Meteorology I
- HAS Elective (such as ATMO 455- Introduction to Atmospheric & Hydrology Remote Sensing)
- HAS Elective (such as HWRS 498- Senior Capstone [Semester I])
- HWRS 449- Statistical Hydrology
- HWRS 495a- Current Topics in Hydrology & Atmospheric Sciences
8th Semester
- ATMO 474B- Weather Analysis and Forecasting II
- HAS Elective (such as HWRS 498- Senior Capstone [Semester II])
- HWRS 443A- Risk Assessment for Environmental Systems
- HAS Elective (such as ATMO 469b- Air Pollution: Aerosols)
- GE Core Building Connections
- General Education Portfolio (Exit Course)
University of Arizona
Overview:
The University of Arizona, located in Tucson, Arizona, is the state's land-grant institution and its first university. It is known for its world-changing research and discovery, with a focus on innovation and impact. The university boasts a diverse student body and offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
The University of Arizona provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Resources:
Libraries, class registration, academic advising, and international engagement opportunities.Student Life:
Housing, dining, student clubs and organizations, athletics, and campus amenities.Financial Aid:
Scholarships and financial aid for undergraduate and graduate students.Research Opportunities:
Hands-on research experiences for students across various fields.Campus Safety:
Emergency information, Title IX resources, and annual security reports.Accessibility:
Resources and support for students with disabilities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Arizona can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university fosters a strong sense of community through its numerous student clubs and organizations, athletic events, and traditions. The campus is located in Tucson, a city known for its rich culture, diverse cuisine, and proximity to the Sonoran Desert.
Key Reasons to Study There:
World-Class Research:
The University of Arizona is a top-ranking research institution with a strong focus on innovation and discovery.Diverse Academic Programs:
Students can choose from over 150 majors and programs of study across 21 colleges and schools.Engaging Campus Life:
The university offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic events.Tucson Location:
The campus is located in a vibrant city with a rich culture and diverse amenities.Strong Alumni Network:
The University of Arizona has a large and active alumni network that provides support and opportunities for graduates.Academic Programs:
The University of Arizona offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Majors:
Over 150 majors across various disciplines, including business, engineering, science, humanities, and the arts.Graduate Programs:
A variety of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees.Professional Education & Certification:
Programs for professional development and certification in various fields.Other:
The University of Arizona is committed to diversity and inclusion, and it strives to build sustainable relationships with Native Nations and Indigenous communities. The university also has a strong focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
