What college courses do you have to complete to become a professional meterologist?

Question

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Answer 1

Ask your guidance counselor for a list of colleges that offer a bachelor of science degree (B.S.) in meteorology. There are fewer than 20 in the United States, so competition is great.

Be aware that you can sometimes obtain a B.S. in a related science field, such as physics, and then be hired for a number of meteorological positions. However, you would need to have taken a number of mandatory meteorological courses as an undergraduate.

Choose appropriate electives or minors. For example, if you want to be a TV weather person, journalism and communications courses will be necessary.

Plan to obtain a master of science degree (M.S.) in meteorology as soon as possible in order to achieve any career advancement plans, and in order to do research and development work. (For more information, see American Meteorological Society at ametsoc.org.)

Work at internships throughout your college years. They can provide the necessary recommendations to help you toward future degrees and employment.

Consider eventually receiving a Ph.D. if you want to do any intensive research or teach at a university.