Thanks to the Internet and the growing trend of distance education, it’s now possible for future atmospheric scientists to get a meteorology degree online with less campus trips. Most meteorology programs are still campus-based due to the high level of hands-on practice involved, but online and hybrid learning options are becoming more popular. Meteorology degrees are typically lead to a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Applied Science, or Master of Science. In some cases, meteorology may also simply be a certificate joined onto a bachelor’s or master’s degree focused in geosciences. On-campus and online meteorology programs both train students with the skills predict changes in weather. Meteorologists delve into topics on atmospheric dynamics, geophysical waves, cloud physics, nucleation, radiation energy, climate change, hydrological cycles, and more, according to The College Board.
Benefits of Studying Meteorology Online
Online degrees in meteorology may be hard to come by, but plenty of schools in the United States offer stand-alone online meteorology courses too. Taking advantage of online learning can be beneficial for students who need more flexibility. It’s easier to take online courses while working full-time or balancing family life because course materials are accessible 24/7. Online meteorology programs allow access to the same expert faculty while studying atmospheric conditions from the comfort of home. Online meteorology courses tend to be less expensive than campus-based ones with lower tuition and fewer transportation costs. Studying meteorology online can also be advantageous for improving your technical skills with computers and learning to navigate different weather software.
Career Opportunities in Meteorology
Online students who complete a meteorology degree will have the same great career options as their traditional on-campus counterparts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in meteorology is expected to grow steadily in par with other life sciences by 10 percent, thus creating 1,100 new jobs before 2022. Graduates from online bachelor’s degrees in meteorology will qualify for entry-level positions, but a master’s or Ph.D will be required for atmospheric research. Meteorologists can find jobs working in weather stations, laboratories, colleges, television media, radio stations, and government agencies. Some meteorology graduates may work in forensics to collect information from scenes of weather-related accidents as well. Meteorologists earn a high average annual salary of $88,090 for investigating atmospheric phenomena.
Finding an Online Meteorology Degree
Meteorology degrees may be increasing in numbers for distance education, but that doesn’t mean all online programs are created equal. Some of the best online meteorology programs are offered by the University of Arizona, Pennsylvania State University, Florida Institute of Technology, and Mississippi State University. When starting your search, make certain you’re avoiding the so-called “diploma mills” by checking the online college’s accreditation. Use the U.S. Department of Education’s college search tool for reputable accrediting information. It’s also advised that you choose an online program at a nearby college because some campus visits are likely for laboratory work. Other important factors you should consider are ranking, financial aid, student support services, faculty credentials, technology, and flexibility.
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If you’re looking to reach your goal of being a Certified Consulting Meteorologist (CCM) or Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM), an online degree may help. Online meteorology degrees are growing to provide educational and career advancement for students wishing to study the atmospheric sciences behind weather forecasting. When you get a meteorology degree online, you’ll enjoy a more convenient learning format that costs less without skimping on high-quality academics.