Geography (Meteorology-Climatology), BS
Program Description
The meteorology-climatology concentration under the Bachelor of Science program in geography is designed to enable students to meet the requirements for certification as a meteorologist by the National Weather Service. It covers dynamic as well as synoptic meteorology.
Students gain a focused understanding of weather, climate and the various related methods of measurement and instrumentation. Required courses include atmospheric physics, operational weather forecasting, three semesters of calculus and two semesters of calculus-based physics.
In addition to reviewing the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.
Learning Outcomes
- Solve specific radiative energy balance problems in the final exam for GPH 412 (Physical Meteorology).
- Construct a scholarly literature review (single outcome) on a contemporary geographical research problem in their capstone course.
- Apply knowledge of climate change theories to specific theoretical world constructs.
Admission Requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
Freshman
Transfer
International
Readmission
Transfer students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 from a transfer institution.
Concurrent degree admission requirements:
Freshman applicants must meet all of the following standards:
- minimum ABOR GPA of 3.75
- no English competency deficiencies
- 1040 SAT Reasoning or 22 ACT score
Transfer Options
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.
Change of Major Requirements
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.
Flexible Degree Options
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an
accelerated bachelor's and master's degree
with:
Urban and Environmental Planning
Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE
Geography
Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.
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Career Outlook
Program graduates have found employment with:
- airlines
- energy power companies
- government agencies
- military (meteorology and pilot training)
- National Weather Service
This program also provides suitable preparation for graduate study in either meteorology or climatology.
Example Careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
Air Traffic Controllers
- Growth: 1.4%
- Median Salary*: $132,250.00
Conservation Scientists
- Growth: 4.1%
- Median Salary*: $64,460.00
Hydrologists
- Growth: 1.5%
- Median Salary*: $85,990.00
Atmospheric and Space Scientists
- Growth: 4.4%
- Median Salary*: $83,780.00
News Analysts, Reporters and Journalists
- Growth: -3.3%
- Median Salary*: $55,960.00
Wind Energy Operations Managers
- Growth: 3.3%
- Median Salary*: $128,620.00
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Global Experience
Students deepen their understanding of cultural traditions in the human experience of place when studying abroad. With access to more than 300 Global Education programs available around the world, students are able to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets and gain hands-on experience in diverse cultures and traditions. Students' resumes are enhanced with the heightened cultural competence and improved communication and critical thinking skills acquired through study abroad.
Program Contact Information
If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.
- [email protected]
- 480/965-7533