Program Overview
Introduction to the Meteorology Program
The Meteorology program at Iowa State University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental physical and dynamic processes governing the motions and behavior of the atmosphere as a fluid system. As a meteorology major, students will develop hands-on skills in instrumentation, forecasting, and real-world experience through senior thesis projects, field experiences, and other courses.
Career Opportunities
Meteorology majors can pursue careers in various fields, including:
- Weather Forecaster
- Broadcast Meteorologist
- Emergency Management Specialist
- Military weather officer
- Catastrophe modeling
- Weather Analyst
- Atmospheric Scientist
- Hydrometeorologist
- Meteorological Technician
- Operational Meteorologist
- Climatologist Employers in government, technology, business, insurance, national security, research, and many other fields are hiring meteorologists for these careers.
Program Details
The meteorology program prepares students for careers in the National Weather Service, broadcasting, or the private sector. With their skills, students will help develop more sustainable systems for societies and assist communities in building resilience and adapting to changes.
Community and Research Opportunities
Meteorology majors at Iowa State are part of a close-knit community of students and faculty who share a passion for weather. The university has an award-winning student chapter of the American Meteorological Society, in which students can get involved. Students are also eligible for several scholarships to support their educational goals. Research and field opportunities are available inside and outside the classroom, and students can even make undergraduate research their campus job.
Secondary Major in Meteorology
The Meteorology program allows students in academic programs with affinity to meteorology to complete a secondary major in meteorology through an accelerated pathway. Students earning a B.S. degree in electrical or aerospace engineering who complete the designated Meteorology coursework of at least 25 credit hours can earn a secondary major in Meteorology.
Program Requirements
The Meteorology degree requirements are available for students to review. The program is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the fundamental physical and dynamic processes governing the motions and behavior of the atmosphere as a fluid system.
Research Areas
The program covers various research areas, including:
- Climate and Quaternary Research
- Geoscience Education
- Hydrological Sciences
- Mesoscale / Microscale Meteorology
- Solid Earth Processes
Student Support
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) Dean’s High Impact Awards for Undergraduate Research support student researchers financially. Students can also connect with a network of alumni who are leaders in Iowa and beyond while pursuing their major and after graduation.