Atmospheric Science

Are you interested in becoming a weather forecaster?  Can you picture yourself helping people prepare for our changing environment? Do you want to get ready for a research career in meteorology? The Department of Geography’s Atmospheric Science program can help you get there. Our faculty will give you a solid background in weather and climate, meteorological observations, and forecasting. ECU Geography maintains two state-of-the-art weather stations to monitor weather and climate variables in the heart of the city and at a remote field site. Students will receive training in the latest geospatial technologies, such as Geographic Information Systems and cartographic design. Students apply this knowledge to understanding coastal hazards, severe weather, and hydrology. Whether you’re interested in undergraduate or graduate study, the Atmospheric Science program will give students at ECU a one-of-a-kind preparation for 21^st century careers in the atmospheric sciences.

Weather Hazards

North Carolina is often in the path of hurricanes, which bring floods and high winds to farmland and urban centers alike. Weather hazards present tough challenges for our region, and we will help you help others prepare for them!

Climate Change

The challenges our society faces as our climate changes are upon us. We must adapt our energy use, water resources, emergency management, health, industry and business to a changing world. Our program stands ready to give you the knowledge and the tools to be part of the solution.

Forecasting

From making meteorological observations to interpreting weather maps, you’ll learn the skills you’ll need to become a weather forecaster. Prepare for a career in the National Weather Service, work for private industry, or go on the air at local or national media outlets, presenting critical forecasts that can save lives!

Get involved in atmospheric science research! Current research areas include:

1. Hydrology of the land surface.
2. El Niño and global precipitation.
3. Biosphere-atmosphere interaction.
4. Climate variability and prediction.
5. Hurricanes and cloud systems.
6. Satellite and radar meteorology.

The certificate program involves theoretical, technological and applied studies in atmospheric sciences. An Atmospheric Science Certificate, as part of the BS degree in Applied Geography, provides the atmospheric science background you’ll need, wherever your career takes you! For details, go to http://www.ecu.edu/cs-cas/geog/undergraduate.cfm.

Faculty: