Students from a wide variety of backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our Department. We accept students with a bachelor's degree in meteorology, oceanography, physics, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, biology, or other programs with suitable emphasis on science. Previous education in meteorology is not required. A minimum undergraduate background includes three semesters of calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, three semesters of calculus-based physics, and two semesters of chemistry; additional mathematics, physics, and computer science are viewed favorably. All students are required to take the Graduate Record Exams (GRE) and international students are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

The University requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (out of 4.0) for financial aid. The Department offers Fellowships, Research Assistantships or Teaching Assistantships to the most qualified applicants.

Application deadlines for the Fall Semester are February 1 for international students and May 15 for American students. However, for consideration for a Fellowship or Assistantship, all applications should be complete as of February 1 for all applicants. We encourage students to begin their studies in the Fall Semester, but admit a small number of students for the Spring Semester. Those deadlines are June 1 for international students and October 15 for American students. There is only a limited amount of financial aid available for students beginning in the Spring Semester.

You are encouraged to submit an application on-line. If you wish to obtain a hard-copy application package or request more information, please contact the Student Affairs Secretary, Tammy Hendershot, by email at tammy at atmos.umd.edu or by calling 301-405-5389.