Atmospheric Science
The Atmospheric Science Master of Science program at Cornell University provides a scientifically rigorous and research focused academic environment for students who want to examine the physical, chemical, and dynamical processes that shape the Earth’s atmosphere. The curriculum integrates meteorology, climate dynamics, atmospheric chemistry, environmental modeling, remote sensing, and numerical weather prediction, enabling learners to develop a deep understanding of weather systems, climate variability, and atmospheric interactions. With a strong emphasis on climate dynamics, the program helps students analyze observational data, interpret large scale atmospheric processes, and investigate the factors that influence severe weather, long term climate trends, and environmental change. This scientific foundation allows students to explore atmospheric behavior at local, regional, and global scales.
Throughout the two year program, students collaborate with faculty engaged in cutting edge research related to climate modeling, extreme weather events, air quality, environmental data science, and land–atmosphere interactions. Through laboratory work, field observations, computational modeling, and research oriented coursework, learners strengthen their skills in atmospheric analysis, scientific interpretation, and environmental data evaluation. The academic environment promotes interdisciplinary thinking, connecting atmospheric science with ecology, environmental engineering, hydrology, and sustainability studies. This combination of scientific rigor and applied research prepares graduates to contribute to critical studies on climate impacts, atmospheric processes, and environmental resilience.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Atmospheric Science
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 January 2026
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Climate Studies & Meteorology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Foundations of Atmospheric Science
• Atmospheric Thermodynamics and Dynamics
• Research Methods in Climate and Weather Analysis
• Elective in Remote Sensing, Air Quality, or Environmental Data Science
Semester 2
• Synoptic Meteorology and Forecasting
• Climate Variability and Climate Change
• Atmospheric Chemistry and Environmental Processes
• Elective in Modeling, Hydrology, or Environmental Physics
Semester 3
• Advanced Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Science
• Numerical Weather Prediction or Climate Modeling
• Environmental Field Measurements or Laboratory Study
• Elective in Extreme Weather, Carbon Cycles, or Global Systems
Semester 4
• Master’s Thesis Research
• Data Analysis for Weather and Climate Systems
• Professional Development for Atmospheric Scientists
• Elective in Environmental Policy, Advanced Modeling, or Climate Risk
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue meaningful careers across atmospheric research, climate science, environmental analysis, and applied meteorology, frequently joining climate research institutions, weather forecasting centers, environmental consulting firms, and governmental science agencies. Their advanced preparation in modeling, atmospheric dynamics, and environmental data interpretation enables them to contribute to climate projections, severe weather analysis, environmental risk assessments, air quality studies, and policy relevant scientific reporting. With interdisciplinary scientific capability, they support organizations working to understand climate impacts, improve forecasting systems, and strengthen environmental resilience.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students who want to build a strong scientific foundation in atmospheric processes and climate behavior, offering opportunities to develop advanced atmospheric insight and strong analytical capability supported by Cornell’s distinguished expertise in climate and environmental science. Through computational modeling, field observation, and data driven research, learners gain the tools to interpret complex climate systems, evaluate atmospheric dynamics, and contribute to scientific efforts addressing global environmental challenges. Its structured two year format provides rigorous academic preparation and professional readiness for impactful careers in atmospheric science, climate analysis, and environmental research.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
