Graduate Degrees in Atmospheric & Oceanic Sciences

Atmospheric & Oceanic Sciences

The Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences (ATOC) at CU Boulder provides a world-class, interdisciplinary research and educational environment to examine the dynamical, physical and chemical processes that occur in the atmosphere and ocean.

Located in a region that has the greatest concentration of geophysical researchers in the nation, ATOC gives its students unparalleled access to atmospheric and oceanic science excellence. This community and environment are integral to the foundation of our unique philosophy and vision, which elevates our department to one of worldwide prominence.

At the graduate level, ATOC offers a doctoral degree and a master’s degree (thesis and nonthesis options).

Degree Types

MS ᐧ PhD

CU Boulder is ranked #1 in atmospheric science in Shanghai Ranking’s 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects.

ATOC has extensive computing facilities and laboratories in remote sensing, chemistry, hydrodynamics and numerical modeling.

The presence of leading laboratories in the environmental sciences in Boulder, including the National Center for Atmospheric Research () and the NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory (), provides additional opportunities for a rich educational experience.

Degree Options & Application Requirements

Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences

Master of Science

30 credit hours
Students can earn a master's degree with either a thesis or an exam.
Students are expected to complete all degree requirements within four years of the date of commencing coursework, but normally in two years.

Application Deadlines & Requirements

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

For program details, review the .

Doctor of Philosophy

36 credit hours of coursework
30 dissertation hours
An undergraduate degree in mathematics, physics, engineering, chemistry or another natural science is recommended.

Application Deadlines

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

For program details, review the .

Research Areas

Atmospheric Chemistry & Physics
Chemical & Physical Oceanography
Climate Dynamics
Clouds & Aerosols
Radiative Transfer & Remote Sensing
Synoptic, Mesoscale & Boundary Layer Meteorology

Funding Opportunities

We understand funding opportunities play a major role in helping you to decide whether a program is right for you. At CU Boulder, PhD students are supported through research and teaching assistantships. Students are also encouraged to apply for their own sources of funding.

Explore General Funding Explore Department-Specific Funding

Graduate Student Resources

Student success is best met with holistic support and resources. CU Boulder offers robust resources, programming and opportunities to help students establish meaningful connections, adjust to graduate student life and find assistance when they need it. Whether it’s academic, social, or health and wellness support, the university provides an array of resources to meet the diverse needs of our students.

Graduate Student Organizations