MSc/Diploma Applied Meteorology

Duration: Full-time 12 months

The programme aims to provide a rigorous and quantitative scientific background for work in all branches of applied meteorology (including agricultural meteorology) and to show how this background can be used in a variety of contexts.

Advanced Course Studentships are available for suitably qualified UK/EU students.

Programme Content: The programme starts in October with introductory lectures, including Introduction to weather systems, atmospheric physics, introduction to computing, vegetation/atmosphere interactions, and measurements and instrumentation. A two- day field course is included in Term 1. In Term 2 students choose from a selection of advanced modules. Boundary Layer Meteorology and Micrometeorology is a compulsory module. Other options include Agricultural Meteorology, Hydrometeorology, Statistical Concepts, Remote Sensing from the Surface and Space, Climate Change and Tropical Meteorology. Other course elements in the second term include a team project lasting one week and a series of seminars on ‘Applications of Meteorology’.

In the third term there is an intensive 4-day course in weather forecasting run by the UK Met Office. The remainder of the course is largely devoted to the preparation of a dissertation on a topic chosen by the student in consultation with members of staff. The final dissertation report must be submitted by mid-August.

Examinations are held in January and in April/ May. Many modules also include a continuously assessed component. An oral examination may also be held at the end of the programme. An MSc is awarded on successful completion of 180 credits worth of material. A Diploma may be awarded on successful completion of 120 credits.

Fact File

Entry Requirements: Applicants should have at least a second class honours degree in a mathematical or physical science. Degrees in environmental or agricultural sciences may also be acceptable if Mathematics and Physics have been studied to A level or equivalent. Students with other backgrounds may be admitted subject to a satisfactory performance in a prepatory programme in the preceding year.