Meteorology tools
and research resources.

Build experience through faculty-mentored research, internships, forecasting for the Northern Star, weather-station observations, severe-weather watching, and community weather education. The student chapter of the American Meteorological Society offers leadership and professional connections.

Undergraduate research opportunities, including Research Rookies and Student Engagement Fund projects, can help students develop research skills and contribute to scientific publications.

The curriculum builds on two years of mathematics and one year of calculus-based physics. Core study includes physical meteorology, two semesters of analysis and forecasting, and two semesters of atmospheric dynamics.

Complement meteorology with GIS and spatial analysis, a GIS certificate, or a minor in geospatial systems, applied mathematics, economics/business, or broadcast journalism. Electives and computing skills support applications across weather-sensitive industries; discuss current options with your advisor.

Graduates pursue forecasting, broadcast meteorology, climate and hazards research, environmental consulting, risk assessment, and applications in aviation, transportation, agriculture, energy, logistics, and insurance.

Research and internship experiences span organizations such as the National Weather Service, NOAA, NASA, national laboratories, universities, and private-sector weather firms. Alumni also pursue graduate study in atmospheric science, geography, and environmental science.

Small classes, faculty mentorship, engaged learning, and a strong alumni network connect an established meteorology program with a wide range of careers. The program extends beyond operational forecasting to applied climate, hazards, climate change, computing, and GIS.

NIU’s location near Chicago offers access to a broad employment and internship market, including media, transportation, consulting, and weather-sensitive industries.