Course Overview!

The Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Meteorology and Climatology at Ball State University is designed for students interested in weather, climate, and their impact on human lives. The program meets American Meteorological Society (AMS) qualifications for the "meteorologist" title and Federal Civil Service requirements for National Weather Service employment. Students develop expertise in weather forecasting, geographic information systems (GIS), quantitative data analysis, and teamwork. The program offers hands-on experience through a client-based forecasting service, participation in national forecasting competitions, opportunities in broadcast meteorology (working with the Department of Telecommunications, Cardinal-Vision 57, and NewsLink Indiana), and a storm chasing class. In-depth research opportunities are encouraged, with projects encompassing drought analysis, societal responses to hazardous weather, and client-based forecasting. The program features small class sizes and faculty-led instruction. Graduates find employment in commercial and government sectors, including roles in radio/television, emergency management, and private forecasting companies.

Course Structure

The Meteorology and Climatology major requires 84-89 credits in addition to the University Core Curriculum (31-36 credits). Specific course examples include METC 435 (Satellite and Radar Meteorology), METC 447 (Thermodynamic Meteorology), METC 450 (Mesoscale Meteorology), METC 451 (Dynamic Meteorology), and METC 490 (Field Observations of Severe Local Storms). A complete course list is available in the university's course catalog. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in meteorology and climatology principles, incorporating practical experience through various projects, internships and real-world applications. The program balances theoretical understanding with hands-on training in data analysis, forecasting techniques, and technology.