Qualifying as a meteorologist

Qualifying as a meteorologist is likely to need further study, but may also depend on the subjects you took before university. If you don't have the maths and science background employers ask for, it may be possible to take a catch-up course so don't be put off if this is the career you want to work towards.

Qualifications

1. You will need AS levels or higher in Physics or Maths. If you don’t have this, a maths or physics component to your degree course may satisfy the requirements
2. You will need a 1st or 2:1 in your degree
3. Geography graduates will usually need to do a masters in Meteorology or similar subject, or have good A-levels in Maths and Physics
4. The Royal Meteorological Society operates a Chartered Meteorologist scheme which recognises a specific level of knowledge and skill.

Work experience

The Royal Meteorological Society offers a small number of work experience placements each year, as does the Met Office. These may be highly competitive.

As meteorology involves a large amount of computer modelling, it may be useful to gain experience in this, either through work experience or as part of a degree course.