Meteorologist

You'll usually need a degree in meteorology or a related subject like:

• physical sciences
• maths
• geography
• computer science
• environmental science

You might need a postgraduate qualification in meteorology or climatology if you want to do research.

You can find out more about relevant degree subjects from the Royal Meteorological Society.

Getting experience of computer modelling during your degree or postgraduate course can be useful in this role.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science

• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree

• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

You can apply for Met Office work experience opportunities to learn more about what it's like to work in meteorology. There are schemes for young people in different age groups.

You may also be able to apply for an industrial placement with the Met Office, if you are studying at university.

You can apply to the Met Office for a place as a trainee on their Foundation Operational Meteorology Programme .

You'll need a degree or equivalent qualification in science, maths or a related subject like geography. Other subjects may be accepted if you have the qualities the Met Office is looking for.

Professional and Industry Bodies

You could join the Royal Meteorological Society for professional development opportunities and to make contacts in the profession.

Further Information

You can learn more about becoming a meteorologist from the Met Office and the Royal Meteorological Society .

As a forecaster you’ll:

• collect data from satellite images, radar, remote sensors and weather stations
• measure air pressure, wind, temperature and humidity
• forecast the weather by analysing information and using computer models
• give weather information and reports to customers

As a researcher you’ll:

• study weather patterns and climate change
• refine computer forecasting models
• use research to predict floods and droughts
• study how the weather affects the spread of pollution or disease

You could work in an office or at a client's business.

Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time.