Meteorology
Explore meteorology at Valparaiso University and turn your passion for weather into a dynamic career. Gain hands-on experience as you uncover the atmosphere’s complexities and prepare for diverse paths.
Valparaiso University’s meteorology program offers a focused and engaging path for students who are passionate about understanding the atmosphere. From the beginning, students are encouraged to think deeply about the science of weather and how it impacts our world. They learn to connect scientific ideas with real-world experiences, building confidence through ongoing practice and reflection. Students experience personalized instruction from professors, helping them grow both academically and professionally through fieldwork and lab research.
As students move through the program, they begin to see how their knowledge can solve problems and make a difference in the world. Students study atmospheric complexities through theory and handson applications, preparing for diverse careers in meteorology and atmospheric sciences. By graduation, they are ready to take on the challenges of a complex and changing field. The program ensures alumni are competitive and capable contributors to the field. For five years running, 100% of Valpo meteorology graduates have been employed or enrolled in graduate school within nine months of graduation — and many alumni go on to careers at top organizations across the country.
25-50% of each graduating class pursues graduate education, often fully funded with teaching or research assistantships.
$97,450 median annual wage of atmospheric scientists and meteorologists*
*According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024 report.
CAREER PATHS
Our meteorology alumni illuminate various sectors, including national television networks, government agencies, and private meteorological services. Graduates thrive as:
• Aviation Meteorologists
• Broadcast Meteorologists
• Climate Researchers
• Severe Weather Analysts
• Weather Consultants
No matter where their careers take them, Valpo’s meteorology graduates bring expertise and passion to the field, making meaningful contributions to weather research, forecasting, and public safety. Learn more at valpo.edu/ alumni-success .
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
From your first semester at Valpo, you will dive into meteorological observation and forecasting using tools like radiosonde systems, a mesonet tower, and radar processing systems. Outside the classroom, students have opportunities like live forecasting sessions and field studies — most notably an 11-day convective field study where students observe storms and practice storm tracking while working alongside experts. Students gain experience collecting and analyzing atmospheric data, developing forecasting techniques, and interpreting realtime weather information. These immersive experiences give students the problem-solving and decision-making skills necessary for an exciting career in meteorology.
EXPERT MENTORSHIP
Valpo’s meteorology professors serve their students, offering guidance on complex concepts and research methods, allowing students to focus on career development to build both technical skills and practical insight. Through research with professors on severe weather and atmospheric dynamics, students gain valuable experience that often leads to conference presentations and published work. This practical approach helps students graduate with bright research portfolios and the preparation needed for advanced study or careers in meteorology. Support from professors extends beyond the classroom, providing mentorship in forecasting, job applications, professional growth, and beyond.
“I chose Valpo because it has one of the best meteorology programs in the country, and I love the campus, the way it felt like a home away from home the minute I walked around it. The meteorology department felt like family, and everything just kind of clicked.”
DANIEL MURPHY ’24
MAJOR: Meteorology
Read more about Daniel’s story at bit.ly/valpodanielmurphy.
SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS
For more information on financial aid, visit valpo.edu/aid.
Be a Beacon
University admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or religion. (For a full statement, see valpo.edu .)
Take the next step toward your bright future by visiting valpo.edu/meteorology, or by scanning the QR code.
Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, IN 46383
web: valpo.edu
email: undergrad.admission@valpo.edu
