Content Administrator | Penn State Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science

Content Administrator

In physics and fluid mechanics, a boundary layer is that layer of fluid in the immediate vicinity of a bounding surface. In the Earth's atmosphere, the planetary boundary layer is the air layer near the ground affected by diurnal heat, moisture or momentum transfer to or from the surface.

Mission

The Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science expands the reaches of the atmospheric sciences, prepares students for emerging careers, and advances the well being of the University and society.

Vision

To have world-renowned excellence in meteorology, atmospheric science and climate science research and teaching, attracting the best and brightest students.

Values

Scientific integrity
Dedication to teaching, research, and service
Innovation in academics and research
Collaboration and collegiality in all that we do

Strategic Plan

Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science Strategic Plan for 2020-2024.
College of Earth and Mineral Sciences Strategic Plan for 2020-2024.
Penn State Strategic Plan for 2016-2025.

Mission Statement

The Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science Advisory Board is a select group of representatives from government agencies, academia, and the private sector who will advise, assist and support the department in its efforts to continually improve the value and relevancy of its academic and research programs. The board will promote and facilitate effective communications between the Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science and its many partners worldwide, and will serve as a forum where ideas can be exchanged and recommendations can be made.

Requirements for Admission

If you plan to major in Meteorology and Atmospheric Science, you'll need a strong background in science, mathematics and computer skills. In high school you should take earth sciences, physics, chemistry and mathematics through at least pre-calculus. Generally, if you have completed a course in calculus and/or a course in computer programming, you will have an advantage when starting your meteorology and atmospheric science studies. You should take your high school's college-preparation English classes and should know how to use a word processor on a computer.

For more specific admission requirements for the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, in which the Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science resides, visit Penn State's Undergraduate Admissions website and view the degree requirements for the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences.

Opportunities to Consider During Admission

Advanced Placement

Students who do advanced work in high school may earn credit through the Advanced Placement program.

University Scholars Program (Schreyer Honors College)

There are distinct opportunities afforded to Schreyer Scholars, which include: (a) Academic enrichment including honors courses, exclusive study abroad programs, and research placements. (b) Dedicated honors housing in two residence halls that establish a vibrant setting for learning and living. (c) The distinction of graduating with honors from Penn State upon successful completion of the SHC's academic requirements. Just five percent of the undergraduate students enrolled at Penn State are members of the Schreyer Honors College and can earn that distinction.

TEEMS - Total Engagement with EMS

Once you accept admission to Penn State in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, you can apply to participate in this fun-filled orientation program, TEEMS, to ease your transition into the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences.

Irvin Hall Interest House

Apply to live in the dorm full of other EMS students! Be sure to visit the "Prospective Residents" menu on the Irvin Hall Interest House website for information on how to request this special housing.

How to Apply

Admission to Penn State and to the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences is administered by the Undergraduate Admissions Office. There you will be able to set up your Penn State profile and fill out the online admissions application. You will also be able to find information about admissions requirements, student life, tuition costs, and financial aid. If you have questions about the admissions process, please contact Penn State's Undergraduate Admissions Office.

The Pennsylvania State University
201 Shields Building
University Park, PA 16802

Email: admissions@psu.edu

Instagram:@PSUAdmissions

Incoming First-Year Student Scholarships

Meteorology and Atmospheric Science offers a limited number of scholarships to incoming first-year students based on academic merit and/or financial need, which are contingent on accepting your offer from Penn State with the intention of enrolling in the Meteorology and Atmospheric Science major. You do not need to apply for these scholarships; if you are selected by the department scholarship committee, an offer letter will be sent to your home address, typically between mid-February and mid-March. Generally speaking, first-year scholarships are renewed in the second year given you maintain the GPA specified in your scholarship offer letter.

In addition to Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science scholarships, the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences and other areas at the University offer scholarships to incoming first-year students. Notification of these scholarships vary in their timing, but most scholarship offers are sent within the mid-February to April timeline. Unfortunately, in the Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science, we cannot view or access information on other scholarships you may be offered or are receiving.

How to Apply

Applications are not required for Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science scholarships; you will be contacted via U.S. mail (typically mid-February to mid-March) if you have been selected for an incoming freshman scholarship.

Meteorology Awards

Most Meteorology and Atmospheric Science awards are given to second-year through fourth-year students, although there may be a limited number of awards that apply to incoming first-year students. For a full list of award opportunities and the eligibility criteria, please visit Student Awards.

External (to Penn State) Scholarships and Awards

Only scholarships available to incoming freshmen are listed below. For a list of external scholarships for upperclassmen, please visit the Current Students section of our website.

Penn State Office of Student Aid

Scholarships are only a part of a well-developed college-financing plan. The University's Office of Student Aid (link is external) is an essential partner in creating that plan. Be sure to investigate the many sources of aid they offer.

Scholarships and Awards Beyond the First Year

More information about Meteorology and Atmospheric Science scholarships and awards for juniors and seniors are awarded based on scholarship guidelines and criteria. There is no application for Meteorology and Atmospheric Science scholarships and awards; however, if you want to be eligible for College of Earth and Mineral Sciences Scholarships as an upperclassman, you must complete the EMS scholarship application every year by April 15.