Some possible jobs within this career area are:
While you don’t need a special certificate to be a mathematician or a scientist, in theory, you might need certifications for your individual career. For example, teachers need teaching certificates, and sometimes have to return to school to keep their license active. Some lab workers need special training or certification. And many workers find that continuing education benefits not only their knowledge base, but also their wallet.
Typical degrees for math or science programs include:
- Associate’s Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- PhD
Scientists and math specialists – people who have a lot of knowledge in specialized fields – are always in need and in demand. Many companies recruit students who major in math or science because they have fundamental training that can be applied to a variety of disciplines. Most career counselors recommend getting internships during school so you can establish a work history as well as make important professional connections.
You could earn a degree in math or science in as little as two years, for an Associate’s Degree, or as long as four years for a Bachelor’s Degree. Remember that you also have graduate school as an option, which could take an additional two or three years.
How to Become a Meteorologist
A meteorologist career may be for you if the atmosphere fascinates you. A career in meteorology is typically spent studying the atmosphere and atmospheric events. Some specialize and become operational meteorologists, who are professionals using their skills to forecast the weather. Meteorologists typically use mathematical computer models and work with databases to better understand the atmosphere. The data can come from satellites or atmospheric sensors.
You might want to become a meteorologist if you are interested in both the atmosphere and broadcast media. Weather forecasters may find themselves on air via television or radio to broadcast their weather predications.
Training Required for a Career in Meteorology
To become a meteorologist, you will need to continue your education beyond high school. Although there is no specific educational requirement, a meteorologist career is highly coveted, and there is a lot of competition. A bachelor's degree is typically the minimum educational requirement for entry-level positions in meteorology. However, an education beyond a bachelor's degree can help give you an edge in these entry-level positions.
Successful meteorologists often pursue work in research and development. You will need a master's degree for these positions at a minimum, although most positions go to candidates with Ph.D. degrees. Throughout college, coursework includes meteorology, atmospheric science, geophysics, oceanography, and computer science.
Working for the federal government, where a majority of positions are, will require you to take courses in atmospheric dynamics, thermodynamics, physical meteorology, and physics. Some coursework in monitoring and reading atmospheric instrumentation is also required.
Your coursework should also include broadcast and media classes if you are thinking about becoming a weather forecaster. A strong presence, whether on television or radio, will be necessary for success as a weather forecaster.
Meteorologist Salaries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median meteorologist salary is $81,300. The top ten percent of meteorologist salaries is above $127,200. The middle fifty percent of meteorologist salaries fall between $55,100 and $101,300. The bottom ten percent of meteorologist salaries fall below $39,000. (Salary data retrieved 7/13/11)
To get the education you need to become a meteorologist, find a degree program now!