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Overview

How the Program Works

With a concept-first approach, learn weather fundamentals as you learn higher math skills.

Foundations

Get a qualitative understanding of the atmosphere, weather phenomena, climate, and forecasting. There are no high-level math prerequisites to begin; we focus on concepts first.

Hands-On Real Data

From day one you'll analyze observations, radar/satellite, and model output, applying concepts directly to live weather.

Easy Transfer Pathways

After two years (paired with your general education and higher level math courses), you'll be prepared to transfer and thrive in upper-division meteorology courses.

Year-by-year Overview

Start with strong qualitative intuition, then level up the quantitative side.

First Year: Build the Core

We immediately focus on foundational aspects of the atmosphere and weather while introducing the math you need, when you need it. You'll practice with real data and begin testing your forecasting intuition.

EARTH 1110
Introduction to Meteorology

Key processes, systems, and terminology that underpin all later study.

EARTH 1111
Climate and Global Change

Earth's climate system, variability, and change in a societal context.

EARTH 1115
Severe and Unusual Weather

Thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, radar basics, and hazard awareness.

EARTH 1116
Weather Analysis and Forecasting I

Reading maps and soundings, interpreting models, and issuing local forecasts.

EARTH 1117
Weather Analysis and Forecasting II

U.S. weather hazards, impacts, preparedness, and mitigation.

EARTH 1118
Storm Chasing / Thunderstorm Lab (Intro)

Field-based learning that connects classroom concepts to live weather.

Second Year: Level Up the Science

Keep strengthening your conceptual understanding while we guide you through higher-level quantitative ideas that support advanced forecasting and analysis—without restrictive math prerequisites to enroll.

EARTH 2116 & 2117
Advanced Weather Analysis & Forecasting I & II

Independent event analysis, hand analysis mastery, and verification.

EARTH 2114
Aviation Meteorology

Flight-critical weather hazards, METAR/TAF interpretation, and aviation products.

EARTH 2118
Severe Weather Map Analysis (Lab)

Hands-on severe forecasting and nowcasting with real-time radar and data.

EARTH 1116 & 1117
Mesoscale Meteorology

Local-to-regional weather features, convective systems, and mesoscale analysis tools

EARTH 1119
Intermediate Meteorology

Bridges to quantitative dynamics/thermodynamics used in upper-division study.

EARTH 1112
Thunderstorm Lab (Advanced Chasing)

Field leadership and advanced responsibilities for returning students.

Field Studies:

Storm Chasing

Our storm chasing program offers an experience unlike any other. With over 35 years of experience, we aim to bring you directly to the phenomena we study. You'll prepare in the classroom, participate in daily forecast discussions, and apply your learning in the field under faculty guidance.

Course Options

ESAS 1112
Storm Chasing / Thunderstorm Lab (Intro)

Open to the general public for participants 18+; no prerequisite.

ESAS 2112
Thunderstorm Lab (Advanced)

For returning students; see prerequisites and instructor permission details.

Who its for

  • Students: Gain invaluable insight that solidifies knowledge from coursework.
  • Enthusiasts: If you love weather, this is a powerful, memorable way to learn.

Important Note

Dates, fees, logistics, and eligibility are posted ahead of each season. Check the Storm Chasing info page for current details.

Register at COD

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