What college should I go to, to become a meteorologist or an astronomer?

Question

which couses should i take in HS to prepare myself?

Answer 1

NOAA is in Boulder, so I would guess that U Colorado-Booulder should have a good meteorology program

Answer 2

To answer the second part of your question regarding classes to take in high school.

In addition to the standard college prep courses, take as many science (physics/chemistry/biology), mathematics (geometry/algebra/trigonometry/calculus) and computer science/programming classes as you can. Take classes with labs, where you actually "do" science. Classes in drafting or autocad could have some benefit as well. Learning German could be useful because there are many science/physics texts in German.

You should also read widely. One thing which is useful in astronomy (at least when it comes to interacting with the public) is a working knowledge of Greek and Roman mythology. Then you can tell the story behind Cassiopeia instead of merely pointing out the big W in the northern sky. Reading about scientists in various fields is also useful because you begin to understand how science as a whole works. Check out a book or talk to a teacher about some basic science experiments you can do over the summer perhaps; even a simple bean growing experiment can help you understand the idea of variables and constants (if you don't already). Build a model rocket. Work logic puzzles.

Answer 3

University of Arizona and Arizona State are known for their great astronomy departments. But if you dont like the idea of huge universities you can go to a small women's college called Agnes Scott. That's where I go and theey have an AWESOME science dept. Im majoring in astrophysics, and I love it because the school is small so you get a lot of attention and a lot of one on one help that you wont get at a huge university.

Answer 4

for meteorology there is none better than the University of Oklahoma. It is a fine school with the highest number of National Merit Scholars outside of the Ivy League schools.

Know your math and earth sciences backwards and frontwards. Study calculus, Geography, and physics and be ready for the the challenge of your life.

Answer 5

Berkeley!!!! Geoff Marcy and Sandy Faber are there and they are some of the BEST in the business!!! I was an Astrophysics major at TCU and I still recommend Berkeley!!! Warning though, Astronomers, for the schooling necessary (PhD) do NOT make much money at all so you better be in it because you LOVE IT!!! :-)

Cheers!!

Answer 6

Penn State has a terrific meteorology school. Take lots of math & science in high school. also, may want to brush up your public speaking - don't forget that meteorologists are often broadcasters as well! good luck!

Answer 7

The University of Texas at Austin has a good Astronomy program.

Answer 8

For astronomy I would recommend any college with its own telescope. Arizona State, Hawaii, or check the telescope at Palo Alto, I forget the university that controls Palo Alto.

Answer 9

It should be a "heavenly college." These professions require 8 year of college dealing with physics, many mathe courses as well, plus astronomy.

Answer 10

any college with a good physics department (both of those majors are in the physics department). College of Charleston (South Carolina) is part of the USC system and has a very good physics program.