Meteorology

Introduction

Objectives and content

The master's program in meteorology and oceanography with a specialization in meteorology provides a broad, interconnected understanding of atmospheric physics and dynamics, meteorological measurements, and weather forecasting. Emphasis is placed on student understanding both the physical and the mathematical description of various atmospheric phenomena in connection with observations, laboratory experiments, data analysis and numerical modelling, as well as communication to a scientific audience. The master's thesis provides an advanced and deep understanding of a selected meteorological subject. Topics within the master's thesis typically include the theoretical basis for various weather phenomena, the use of numerical models to project the development of weather systems, processes in the boundary layer over the sea, sea ice or land, extreme weather, local weather and climate conditions, and renewable energy. The master's thesis is an independent research project, and a central part of the master's program, where the student, under guidance, contributes new knowledge to the field of studies.

What you Learn

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the programme the candidate should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

Kandidaten

• can use the terminology of atmosphere'sic dynamics, physics and thermodynamics, and can demonstrate related advanced knowledge
• knows and can valuate current meteorological research and debate within associated disciplines
• knows the societal relevance and challenges within weather and climate prediction
• knows interdisciplinary problems with related disciplines, such as climate dynamics, oceanography, informatics, and geoscience
• has advanced knowledge of mathematical, statistical, and numerical methods for analyzing geophysical data

Skills

The candidate

• can use advanced meteorological instruments to perform reliable measurements and understands the underlying measurement principles as well as sources of uncertainty
• can critically assess data quality and geophysical information sources, and works systematically with measurement errors and uncertainties
• can use advanced mathematical and statistical methods for analysis and visualization of meteorological problems, in particular using programming
• can carry out an independent research project under guidanccan apply their knowledge to new scientific problems within meteorology and associated disciplines

General competence

The candidate

• can formulate and discuss analytical strategies and carry out analyzes of complex problems
• can work with meteorological problems individually and in groups
• can analyze, interpret and discuss their own results in a scientifically sound and critical way
• can present orally and in writing, and explain and discuss complex problems with colleagues
• has knowledge of and respects scientific values such as openness, precision and responsibility, and knows the difference between scientific knowledge and opinion

Study Period Abroad

Study period abroad

Study periods at institutions abroad through the ERASMUS program are agreed with the supervisor and must be a part of the master¿s agreement. It is possible to write the thesis at UNIS.

How to Apply

Admission Requirements

Bachelor's program in Meteorology, Oceanography, Climate Physics or similar.

Bachelor's degrees in applied mathematics or physics may qualify, if they include at least 20 credits from atmosphere and ocean sciences, or theoretical and applied fluid mechanics. A bachelor's degree in physics with solid knowledge in fluid mechanics will also be considered.

You also need to document:

• Average grade of minimum C (equivalent to Norwegian grade C)
• Proficiency in English