Atmospheric Science covers the Earth's atmosphere, weather patterns, and climate systems. You'll explore air composition, atmospheric circulation, and energy transfer processes. The course delves into weather forecasting, climate change, and atmospheric chemistry. You'll also learn about severe weather events, air pollution, and the impact of human activities on the atmosphere.

Is Atmospheric Science hard?

Atmospheric Science can be challenging, especially if you're not a fan of physics or math. It involves complex concepts and requires a good grasp of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and chemistry. That said, if you're interested in weather and climate, you'll probably find it fascinating. The hardest part is usually wrapping your head around the 3D nature of atmospheric processes.

Tips for taking Atmospheric Science in college

Use Fiveable Study Guides to help you cram 🌶️
Practice interpreting weather maps and satellite imagery regularly
Stay up-to-date with current weather events and try to explain them using course concepts
Form a study group to discuss complex topics like atmospheric dynamics
Use online resources like NOAA's website for additional data and explanations
Watch weather forecasts critically, trying to understand the reasoning behind predictions
Consider reading "The Weather Machine" by Andrew Blum for a deeper dive into forecasting
Check out documentaries like "Chasing Coral" to see climate change impacts in action

Common pre-requisites for Atmospheric Science

Calculus: This course covers differentiation, integration, and their applications. It's crucial for understanding the mathematical models used in atmospheric science.
Physics: You'll learn about mechanics, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics. These concepts form the foundation for understanding atmospheric processes.
Chemistry: This course introduces atomic structure, chemical reactions, and gas laws. It's essential for grasping atmospheric composition and pollution concepts.

Classes similar to Atmospheric Science

Oceanography: Explores the physical and chemical properties of the world's oceans. You'll learn about ocean currents, marine ecosystems, and ocean-atmosphere interactions.
Climatology: Focuses on long-term weather patterns and climate systems. You'll study climate classification, climate change, and paleoclimatology.
Meteorology: Dives deep into weather forecasting and analysis. You'll learn about weather systems, severe weather, and forecasting techniques.
Environmental Geoscience: Examines the interaction between geological processes and the environment. You'll study topics like natural hazards, resource management, and environmental impact assessment.

Meteorology: Focuses on the study of weather and short-term climate prediction. Students learn advanced forecasting techniques and atmospheric dynamics.
Environmental Science: Examines the interaction between human activities and the natural environment. Students study a wide range of topics including air and water quality, ecosystem management, and sustainability.
Earth System Science: Integrates knowledge from various earth science disciplines. Students explore the interactions between the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and geosphere.
Climate Science: Concentrates on long-term climate patterns and changes. Students delve into paleoclimatology, climate modeling, and the impacts of global climate change.

What can you do with a degree in Atmospheric Science?

Meteorologist: Analyzes weather data and creates forecasts for various industries. They might work for TV stations, government agencies, or private companies.
Climate Scientist: Studies long-term climate patterns and their impacts. They often work on climate change research, policy development, or environmental consulting.
Air Quality Specialist: Monitors and assesses air pollution levels and their effects on health and the environment. They might work for environmental agencies or consulting firms.
Atmospheric Researcher: Conducts studies on various atmospheric phenomena. They often work in academic institutions or research laboratories, advancing our understanding of the atmosphere.