Department of Atmospheric Sciences
Why Study Atmospheric Sciences at UNC Asheville?
Earn a Bachelor of Science in Atmospheric Sciences from the University of North Carolina Asheville and prepare for careers in meteorology, climatology, and related fields. Students can complement the major with coursework or minors in areas such as Mathematics, Data Science, Environmental Science, Physics, or Computer Science, or enroll in individual courses as non-degree seeking students to advance their professional skills. With hands-on laboratory facilities, real-time data analysis, field experiences, and faculty-mentored research, UNC Asheville’s Atmospheric Sciences program provides a strong scientific and liberal arts foundation for graduate study or direct entry into the workforce.
Atmospheric Sciences Department Programs
B.S. Minor
Explore the forces that shape our atmosphere through a foundation in physics and mathematics. This program prepares students for careers in weather forecasting, climate research, broadcast meteorology, emergency management, and more—combining theory with hands-on experience using real-world data and modern tools.
Career Outcomes
Career Outcomes
With a degree in Atmospheric Science from UNC Asheville, you can pursue a wide range of careers that address weather, climate, and environmental challenges. Our program combines strong foundations in mathematics, physics, and computer modeling with hands-on research and forecasting experience. This blend of coursework and experiential learning prepares students to contribute as scientists, analysts, and communicators in fields such as meteorology, climate research, and environmental consulting.
Concentrations
Concentrations
Building on a core foundation in Atmospheric Sciences, UNC Asheville students can choose from several concentrations to align their studies with their specific interests and career goals. These options include Broadcast Meteorology, Weather Forecasting, and Climatology. Each concentration features a focused set of courses that prepares students for the complex work they’ll do in the field, whether that’s communicating weather information to the public, analyzing storm systems, modeling climate patterns, or contributing to emergency response and climate resilience efforts.
Outside the Classroom - Weather Facilities at UNC Asheville
Outside the Classroom - Weather Facilities at UNC Asheville
Outside the classroom, Atmospheric Sciences students at UNC Asheville gain hands-on experience by sending up weather balloons in winter weather, exploring the mountains to calibrate remote rain gauges, and conducting their own research projects. The Severe Weather Field Experience course takes students to the Great Plains to chase tornadoes as part of a comprehensive career development experience. The department’s weather station, tower camera, and real-time data feed provide access to professional-grade tools. Students learn to collect, visualize, and interpret meteorological data in an environment where classroom lessons come alive and students build both technical skills and professional relationships with regional weather partners.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Opportunities
UNC Asheville’s Atmospheric Sciences program offers scholarships that ease financial burdens and recognize achievement, including the Kate Sweely Fund and Memorial Scholarship, the Alumni Scholarship, and the Asheville AMS Scholarship, which support needs like textbooks, conference travel, academic excellence, and professional development.
I chose atmospheric science because I was fascinated with severe weather, specifically thunderstorms and tornadoes. Meteorology has been a favorite subject of mine since I was a kid. I decided to learn as much as I could and make a career out of something that I enjoy.
Atmospheric Sciences Department Faculty
The Atmospheric Sciences program at UNC Asheville offers students direct and consistent access to faculty mentors. Small class sizes foster close collaboration, personalized instruction, and meaningful engagement with nationally recognized professors who are deeply committed to undergraduate education. Faculty emphasize hands-on learning, real-world application, and individualized support, creating an environment where students are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and succeed both inside and outside the classroom.The Atmospheric Sciences program at UNC Asheville offers students direct and consistent access to faculty mentors. Small class sizes foster close collaboration, personalized instruction, and meaningful engagement with nationally recognized professors who are deeply committed to undergraduate education. Faculty emphasize hands-on learning, real-world application, and individualized support, creating an environment where students are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
Christopher Godfrey, Ph.D.
Professor and Chair of Atmospheric Sciences
Office: 253 Rhoades/Robinson Hall
Phone: 828.232.5160
Email: cgodfrey@unca.edu
Douglas Miller, Ph.D.
Professor of Atmospheric Sciences
Office: 250 Rhoades/Robinson Hall
Phone: 828.232.5158
Email: dmiller@unca.edu
Caitlin Crossett, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Atmospheric Sciences
Office: 251 Rhoades/Robinson Hall
Phone: (828) 250-3888
Email: ccrosset@unca.edu
Sharon Withrow
Department Assistant for Atmospheric Sciences and Chemistry
Office: 102 Zeis Hall
Phone: 828.251.6443
Email: swithrow@unca.edu
Elaine Godfrey, Ph.D.
Adjunct Professor of Atmospheric Sciences
Office: 257 Rhoades/Robinson Hall
Phone: 828.232.6617
Email: egodfrey@unca.edu
Meghan Danahey
Adjunct Professor of Atmospheric Sciences
Office: 257 Rhoades/Robinson Hall
Email: mhodge@unca.edu
Tim Owen
Adjunct Professor of Atmospheric Sciences
Office: 257 Rhoades/Robinson Hall
Email: towen@unca.edu
Ready for What's Next?
Our Bachelor of Science in Atmospheric Sciences gives you a comprehensive education in real-world contexts and applications of the discipline. Your liberal arts education is enriched by hands-on learning experiences and three specialized concentrations, allowing you to delve deeper into your passions and prepare for your career.