2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog
Atmospheric Sciences - Lyndon
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Faculty
Janel Hanrahan, Associate Professor
Aaron Preston, Assistant Professor
Mission Statement
The Northern Vermont University-Lyndon Department of Atmospheric Sciences prepares students who are passionate about weather, climate, and the environment for professional careers. We offer a modern curriculum that combines hands-on learning with preparation in math and the physical sciences. We value a supportive, small-school environment where accessible professors challenge and help students in acquiring the skills and experience necessary for success in their chosen concentration(s).
Program Goals
The NVU-Lyndon Atmospheric Sciences Department has the following program goals:
- Provide students with the necessary education and training to be successful and competitive in their chosen career concentration,
- Provide students with a broad-based understanding of atmospheric science fundamentals with a modern and rigorous curriculum,
- Provide students with several concentrations that allow them to develop specialized and diverse skills,
- Provide and encourage a range of experiential learning opportunities, including:
- Data analysis in a laboratory setting
- Internships
- Field trips and participation in field programs
- Research experiences
- Preparing and communicating weather forecasts,
- Provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, and
- Expose students to the broader atmospheric sciences community at conferences and other off-campus activities
Program Description
Atmospheric Sciences at Northern Vermont University-Lyndon (formally, Lyndon State College) has a long and proud history of excellence, with many successful alumni throughout the field. Our diverse and rigorous curriculum prepares students for a variety of career possibilities from broadcast meteorologists to research scientists. Students, faculty, and staff alike are passionate about weather and climate and trying to figure out how the atmosphere works so society can have better weather forecasts, or the environment can be improved. We do this in a supportive family-like, small-school setting that offers big-school opportunities.
Student Learning Outcomes
At the end of their B.S. Atmospheric Sciences (ATM) degree program, successful students will be able to demonstrate the ability to:
• Apply fundamental mathematical and physical concepts to the analysis and understanding of atmospheric sciences related events,
• Correctly analyze atmospheric sciences related data, and develop a scientifically based weather forecast,
• Use computer skills to analyze, display, and manipulate atmospheric sciences related data, and
• Effectively present atmospheric sciences related concepts to knowledgeable audiences.
Assessing Student Learning Outcomes
The department conducts activities within applicable courses for students to exhibit their ability to demonstrate proficiency within each learning outcome. The results are collated, analyzed, and discussed by the instructors to provide an enhanced level of understanding of student achievement on the learning outcomes. In turn, this leads the department to annual decisions regarding changes in pedagogy and content to be implemented for its continuous improvement.
Certificate of Post-Baccalaureate Study in Atmospheric Sciences
This certificate documents educational achievement in atmospheric sciences beyond that associated with a BS degree. This program is for those who wish to:
• Gain an advantage in today’s competitive job market
• Bolster their preparation for admission to graduate school, or
• Re-train for job placement or a career change
ProgramsBachelor of ScienceMinorOther Program Areas
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