CollegeTuitionData — College Data in Plain English

Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology at Plymouth State University

Credential: Bachelor's | State: NH

Annual Completions: 9

Atmospheric Sciences: Solid career outlook, but verify specific program ROI.

Program Analysis

Plymouth State University's Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology program (CIP 4004) offers a focused curriculum for students passionate about understanding Earth's atmosphere and its complex phenomena. This Bachelor's degree program equips students with a strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and computer science, essential for analyzing weather patterns, climate change, and atmospheric processes. Core coursework typically includes thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, radiative transfer, synoptic meteorology, and climatology. Students will develop critical skills in data analysis, statistical modeling, scientific programming (often in Python or R), and the use of specialized meteorological software and observational tools.

Graduates from such programs are well-positioned for a variety of career paths. Common roles include Meteorologist, Atmospheric Scientist, Climatologist, Weather Forecaster, and Environmental Scientist. With experience, career progression can lead to positions like Senior Meteorologist, Research Scientist, Emergency Management Specialist, or even roles in broadcast meteorology. Entry-level salaries can vary significantly based on the specific role and location, but often range from $45,000 to $60,000 annually. Mid-career professionals with 5-10 years of experience can expect to earn between $65,000 and $90,000, while senior scientists and researchers with extensive experience and specialized expertise may command salaries exceeding $100,000.

While specific ROI data for Plymouth State's program is not available (median earnings N/A), the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth for atmospheric and space scientists, with a projected 10% increase in employment from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This indicates a healthy demand for skilled professionals in this field. The cost of a Bachelor's degree at Plymouth State should be weighed against these potential earnings and career growth. Practical advice for prospective students includes actively seeking internships with weather agencies (like NOAA), private forecasting companies, or research institutions to gain hands-on experience. Developing strong programming and data visualization skills is also crucial, as is building a professional network within the atmospheric sciences community.

Career Paths

Graduates of Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology at Plymouth State University can pursue the following career paths:

  • Meteorologist. Median salary: $75,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Atmospheric Scientist. Median salary: $85,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Weather Forecaster. Median salary: $60,000, Moderate growth outlook.
  • Environmental Scientist. Median salary: $68,000, Moderate growth outlook.
  • Climatologist. Median salary: $78,000, Strong growth outlook.

Skills Gained

Key skills developed in this program:

  • Data Analysis and Interpretation
  • Statistical Modeling
  • Scientific Programming (Python/R)
  • Atmospheric Physics and Dynamics
  • Weather Forecasting and Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions about Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology at Plymouth State University

Is Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology. at Plymouth State University worth it?

While specific post-graduation earnings data for Plymouth State's program are not available, the field of Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology generally offers a positive return on investment. Graduates are prepared for roles with strong job growth outlooks, particularly in forecasting and scientific research. Entry-level salaries typically range from $45,000-$60,000, with mid-career professionals earning $65,000-$90,000. The demand for meteorologists and atmospheric scientists is projected to grow robustly, suggesting good long-term career prospects and earning potential that can justify the cost of a Bachelor's degree.

What jobs can I get with a Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology. degree?

A degree in Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology opens doors to various specialized roles. You can pursue careers as a Meteorologist, working for government agencies like NOAA or private forecasting firms, predicting weather patterns. Other common paths include Atmospheric Scientist or Research Scientist, focusing on climate change, air quality, or atmospheric phenomena. You might also become a Weather Forecaster for media outlets, an Environmental Scientist analyzing atmospheric impacts, or a Climatologist studying long-term weather trends. These roles often require strong analytical and technical skills.

How much do Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology. graduates earn?

Earnings for Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology graduates vary by experience and specialization. Entry-level positions, such as Junior Meteorologist or Weather Technician, typically start between $45,000 and $60,000 annually. With 5-10 years of experience, professionals in roles like Meteorologist or Atmospheric Scientist can expect to earn between $65,000 and $90,000. Senior scientists, lead researchers, or those in management positions, often with advanced degrees or specialized expertise, can earn upwards of $100,000 per year. These figures are general estimates and can be influenced by location and employer.

Explore More

Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.