Taught course

Applied Meteorology and Climatology

Institution
University of Birmingham · School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences
Qualifications
MSc

Entry requirements

A 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant discipline such as Geography, Environmental Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, Chemistry or Biology. In special cases, applications may be considered from those holding non-graduate qualifications that are deemed by the University to be a satisfactory alternative to an Honours degree in the subject areas mentioned above.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Weather and climate are integral parts of the Earth system. The monitoring of meteorological variables, together with the knowledge and modelling of underlying processes, are key to understanding our interaction with the natural environment.

This programme provides comprehensive training in understanding, modelling and prediction of atmospheric processes; as well as the collection, management, supply and application of atmospheric data for the needs of a variety of public and private sectors. The course also demonstrates how these create opportunities or pose problems for the successful operation of natural and human systems. Our aim is that upon graduation you will be able to compete for careers in Meteorology and Climatology.

This well-established programme was developed in response to industry and research institution requirements for applied meteorologists and climatologists. This demand continues, partially due to the growing attention of the society to climate change, its mitigation and adaptation to it.

The programme aims to:

  • Provide training in theoretical and applied aspects of atmospheric physics and dynamics, quantitative modelling techniques, weather forecasting, climate prediction and observation of atmospheric processes
  • Equip you with the skills of quantitative and statistical analysis with regards to atmospheric data processing and management
  • Enable you to apply theoretical concepts and analytical techniques to the resolution of environmental and socio-economic problems that have an atmospheric origin
  • Develop your independent research ability
  • Convert participants with non-environmental backgrounds to applied meteorologists and climatologists
  • Develop your communication skills using traditional and IT-based media

The course is modular in nature, comprising 180 credits, 120 from MSc-dedicated taught modules and 60 from a dissertation. In line with University Regulations it is intended that 60 credits be the equivalent of a Certificate, 120 credits a Diploma and 180 credits the MSc. All taught courses are compulsory for non-maths and physics graduates.

The course structure is as follows:

MSc (a total of 180 credits)

  • Research Proposal for Dissertation
  • Dissertation
Compulsory Modules
  • Theoretical Meteorology: Atmospheric Composition and Physics
  • Dynamics and Modelling of Weather and Climate
  • Numerical Weather Forecasting and Climate Modelling
  • Atmospheric Data Processing and Statistics
  • Physical Climatology and Climate Change
  • Meteorological Applications and Services

There are a range of optional modules to choose from in addition to the core modules.

Explore postgraduate study at Birmingham at one of our on-campus open days. Register to attend at: www.birmingham.ac.uk/pgopendays

If you can’t make it to one of our on-campus open days, our virtual open days run regularly throughout the year. For more information, please visit: www.pg.bham.ac.uk

Information for international students

All international applicants to this course will be required to pay a non-refundable deposit of £2,000 on receipt of an offer, to secure their place.

Find out more about the deposit >>.

International students may be required to satisfactorily complete a preliminary course of not more than 12 months before starting the MSc and must provide documentary evidence of numeracy and competence in English. We require a minimum of IELTS: 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any band.

Fees and funding

UK students
£10,530 FT
International students
£29,350 FT only

Please visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/pgfunding

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MSc
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Interim award: PGDip or PGCert.

Course contact details

Name
Postgraduate enquiry service
Email
postgraduate@contacts.bham.ac.uk
Phone
0121 414 5005