Meteorology, B.S.

Saint Louis University offers an undergraduate major in meteorology. Meteorology is more than just the study of weather; it includes all the characteristics, structures and processes of the atmosphere. Basic principles of physics and chemistry are applied to discover what makes the atmosphere work. Mathematical equations and techniques are used to predict weather based on present conditions. Recently, meteorology has become increasingly vital to humankind’s concerns. Ozone depletion and global warming have been identified as threats to human existence on earth. Meteorologists are on the front lines of the battle to learn more about and model these phenomena.

Curriculum Overview

The meteorology curriculum at Saint Louis University emphasizes both theory and practical application in fundamental and innovative aspects of the atmospheric sciences. Since class sizes are relatively small, an effective relationship develops between the student and the instructor. This personalized teaching mode stimulates academic interest and professional dedication among students. This is further strengthened by the Jesuit tradition of education.

Fieldwork and Research Opportunities

Students in the meteorology program at Saint Louis University can take advantage of the National Weather Service (NWS) Forecast Office, which is located near the University and regularly accepts SLU students for internships. Classes often take field trips to the office to experience NWS operations. There are four commercial TV stations in the St. Louis area that regularly feature weather reports. Internships are also available with these stations. Students can earn six credits through an internship.

Research centers include the Earthquake Center, the Cooperative Institute for Precipitation Systems, the Global Geodynamics Program, the Center for Environmental Sciences and Quantum Weather™.

Careers

The Bachelor of Science in meteorology program places more emphasis on professional recognition, admission to graduate schools and employment with the National Weather Service.

The American Meteorological Society readily accepts B.S. degree holders as members.

Admission Requirements

Freshman

All applications are thoroughly reviewed with the highest degree of individual care and consideration to all credentials that are submitted. Solid academic performance in college preparatory course work is a primary concern in reviewing a freshman applicant’s file. College admission test scores (ACT or SAT) are used as an additional indicator of the student’s ability to meet the academic rigors of Saint Louis University and are used as qualifiers for certain University scholarship programs. To be considered for admission to any Saint Louis University undergraduate program, the applicant must be graduating from an accredited high school or have an acceptable score on the General Education Development (GED) test.

Transfer

Applicants must be a graduate of an accredited high school or have an acceptable score on the GED. An official high school transcript and official test scores are required only of those students who have attempted fewer than 24 transferable semester credits (or 30 quarter credits) of college credit. Those having completed 24 or more of college credit need only submit a transcript from previously attended college(s). In reviewing a transfer applicant’s file, the office of admission holistically examines the student’s academic performance in college-level coursework as an indicator of the student’s ability to meet the academic rigors of Saint Louis University.

International Applicants

All admission policies and requirements for domestic students apply to international students along with the following:

• Demonstrate English Language Proficiency
• Proof of financial support must include:
  • A letter of financial support from the person(s) or sponsoring agency funding the time at Saint Louis University
  • A letter from the sponsor's bank verifying that the funds are available and will be so for the duration of study at the University
• Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

There are two principal ways to help finance a Saint Louis University education:

• Scholarships: awarded based on academic achievement, service, leadership and financial need.
• Financial Aid: provided in the form of grants and loans, some of which require repayment.

For priority consideration for merit-based scholarships, applicants should apply for admission by Dec. 1 and complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1.

For information on other scholarships and financial aid, visit the student financial services office online at http://finaid.slu.edu.

1. Graduates will know the founding principles in their field of study as well as the facts and content appropriate to the field.
2. Graduates will be able to use their knowledge to reason about issues in their discipline.
3. Graduates will be able to solve quantitative problems in their discipline.

Continuation Standards

Students must have a minimum of a 2.00 GPA in their major courses (EAS) and required related credits (Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Computer Sciences, Physics, etc.) by the conclusion of their freshman year. Students that fall below a 2.00 GPA will be placed on probation. If a student fails to obtain at least a 2.0 GPA in their major courses and required related credits by the conclusion of their sophomore year they will not be allowed to continue in the program.

Bachelor of Science Core Curriculum Requirements

Graduation Requirements

• Complete a minimum of 120 credits (excluding pre-college level courses [numbered below 1000]).
• Achieve at least a 2.00 cumulative grade point average, a 2.00 grade point average in the major(s) and a 2.00 grade point average in the minor/certificate, or related elective credits.
• Complete Dept/Program specific academic and performance requirements.
• Complete at least 50% of the coursework for the major and 75% for the minor/certificate through Saint Louis University or an approved study abroad program.
• Complete 30 of the final 36 credits through Saint Louis University or an approved study abroad program.
• Complete an online degree application by the required University deadline.

Roadmaps are recommended semester-by-semester plans of study for programs and assume full-time enrollment unless otherwise noted.  

Courses and milestones designated as critical (marked with !) must be completed in the semester listed to ensure a timely graduation. Transfer credit may change the roadmap.

This roadmap should not be used in the place of regular academic advising appointments. All students are encouraged to meet with their advisor/mentor each semester.  Requirements, course availability and sequencing are subject to change.