The purpose of the Basic Meteorology Program (BMP) Graduate Certificate Program is to take students with traditional undergraduate or graduate level backgrounds in a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) field and produce graduates who have a robust and broad range of knowledge of atmospheric phenomena and processes, as well as skills related to the application of this knowledge. More specifically, the purpose of this program is to meet the requirements described in the AFOCD Appendix A, 15W CIP Education Matrix for Tier 2 accessions and the individual occupational requirements outlined in the OPM Meteorology Series 1340; requirements that are mandatory for all USAF Weather & Environmental Sciences Officers (WESOs; i.e., 15Ws). This is accomplished by providing a broad foundation in basic meteorology and atmospheric science, including physical meteorology, dynamic meteorology, meteorological systems & services, climate science & services, and professional learning outcomes such as communications skills and information technology knowledge. While the overarching goal is to meet these requirements, the program is tailored to the needs of the Department of Defense by including some specialized courses.
The program length is 3 quarters for full-time students. The first 2 quarters stress foundational atmospheric physics/ dynamics and mathematics. The program culminates in a capstone course that explores USAF environmental forecasting, observing, and impacts identification applying skills from previous Basic Meteorology Program coursework. Students analyze operational challenges, investigate historical challenges, examine forecasting models and instrumentation, conduct forecasts, and study the impact of environmental factors on DoD missions. Through observations and experiments, students gain practical experience in DoD weather operations and its role in military decision-making.
Waivers to the above criteria may be granted on a case-by-case basis. Therefore, individuals whose academic credentials fall below any of the above criteria are encouraged to apply and allow the department to perform an academic evaluation.
Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)
The PEOs of the Basic Meteorology Program identify desired capabilities and anticipated activities of our graduates three years after graduation:
Program Outcomes (POs)
The POs of the Basic Meteorology Program identify desired capabilities and anticipated activities of our graduates upon degree completion:
Lt Col Matthew P. King
Degree Type: Certificate
Delivery Method: In-Residence
Degree Requirements
A student in the Basic Meteorology Program is required to complete at least 28 graduate credit hours for a Graduate Certificate. The 28 credit hours include:
Basic Meteorology Core Courses:
24 credit hours
Basic Meteorology Capstone:
4 credit hours
Specific elective courses are determined by previous background and students’ intellectual curiosity. Education plans are approved by the academic advisor prior to enrollment in courses. Most students will take additional courses beyond the 28-hour requirement to meet prerequisite requirements, develop the breadth of experience, lead a rich and varied career, and satisfy the student’s intellectual curiosity.
Graduate School Catalog