PhD in Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology

Located in the foothills of Fort Collins, the department behind this doctorate trains students to carry out original investigation into the physics, motion and chemistry of the atmosphere, along with climate. Hands-on research experience is part of the training. Specialization topics range across aerosols, air quality, clouds and precipitation, climate behavior, radar, remote sensing, satellite observation and tropical storms. Each student chooses a research theme and works with faculty to put together a dissertation plan. Part of the application is a written statement of purpose that explains what the applicant wants to research, so it helps to read about the department's research themes beforehand. Details on courses and credits can be found in the university catalog. Matching a statement to a particular theme shows the committee that an applicant has thought carefully about where their interests fit among the department's strengths.