Bachelor of Arts in Atmospheric & Oceanic Sciences

Our students are adept in graphical literacy, investigative thinking, societal relevance, and knowledge of the physical processes of weather and climate.

Our Bachelor of Arts program in atmospheric and oceanic studies (ATOC) gives students an in-depth understanding of the physical basis for the role of the atmosphere and oceans in Earth's climate system. Students gain hands-on learning in our internationally recognized department, known around the world for its research, education and leadership in Earth and space sciences. 

  • Understand influences on the ocean, climate and global climate change
  • Learn from some of the leaders in the field, gaining a hands-on, interactive education
  • Build quantitative problem-solving skills through data analysis, observations and modeling

ATOC students are adept in graphical literacy, investigative thinking, societal relevance, and knowledge of the physical processes of weather and climate.

#1 in the world in atmospheric science and earth sciences

(Academic Ranking of World Universities, 2020)

CU Boulder is home to the greatest concentration of geophysical researchers in the nation

CU Boulder is a partner with 15+ federal research labs here in Boulder, including NCAR and NOAA

Be successful.

Be prepared to meet the needs of our 21st-century society by understanding and applying your knowledge of atmospheric and oceanic systems.

 
$94,100

Median salary of atmospheric scientists

(U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018)

 

Atmospheric scientist, meteorologist, climatologist, weather forecaster, educator are common job titles of our graduates

 

Work for weather and aerospace industries, and in the energy sector, insurance, military, government, scientific research institutions and academia

Academic Plan & Requirements

Students are required to complete 45 credits in lower- and upper-division ATOC coursework:

  • 21 credits of core courses
  • 12 credits of methods in ATOC
  • 12 credits of designated upper-division ATOC electives

The requirements for the ATOC major also include 32–37 hours of ancillary science and mathematics.

The department offers a 1-credit Undergraduate Professional Development seminar, which includes presentations of research opportunities, fellowship and internship opportunities, discussions with outside speakers and alumni from academia and industry, and field trips to local laboratories and businesses such as the National Weather Service and NOAA, and the Center for Severe Weather Research.

Community & Involvement

We offer students many opportunities to network with peers and faculty, further their studies, and get the most out of their undergraduate experience. 

ATOC center and institutes include:

News & Stories

College of Arts & Sciences magazine cover