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Meteorologist Or Weather Forecaster?
Many people confuse meteorologists with the weather forecasters they see on TV.
In reality, meteorologists have scientific qualifications and, among other things, they conduct research and analyse data that is used to create a weather forecast.
Weather forecasters work for media outlets and don't necessarily have meteorologist training.
So What Does A Meteorologist Do?
The job can include:
collecting data from satellites, radars, remote sensors, and weather stations
measuring air pressure, wind, temperature, and humidity
studying weather patterns and climate change
applying computer models and scientific principles to forecast the weather
using research to predict floods and droughts
studying how the weather affects the spread of pollution or disease
writing reports and research papers
Quiz
Which of these can be part of a meteorologist's job?
The work of a meteorologist is versatile and includes a lot of research and data analysis.
Where Do Meteorologists Work?
Many places employ meteorologists, such as:
local or national television stations as a weather forecaster
government agencies such as the National Weather Service, NOAA, NASA, or the Department of Defense
private sectors such as airlines, shipping, and insurance companies or the agriculture sector
legal offices as a forensic meteorologist providing meteorological data for legal cases
Quiz
Which is the LEAST LIKELY place to find a meteorologist?
Wherever they work, meteorologists' roles are to do with the weather and the climate. The name can be confusing, but it's astronomers that study meteors.
How Can You Become A Meteorologist?
To become a meteorologist, you need at least a Bachelor's degree in Atmospheric Sciences or a closely related field.
Related subjects are:
Physics
Chemistry
Geography
Environmental Studies
Maths
Computer Science
Engineering
For research positions, a Master's degree or even a PhD in meteorology or a related field may be necessary.
How Do You Know If It's For You?
You'll love it if:
you care about the environment and climate change
you enjoy studying science
you have good numeracy and computer skills
you are intrigued by working with sophisticated tools
You won't like it if:
you want to become a weather forecaster on TV and not a meteorologist
you are not good at maths
you don't like writing reports
Quiz
Susan decided that she wants to become a meteorologist. Why should she think twice before making that decision?
As meteorologists work with a lot of data, they use computers a lot which could be a dealbreaker for Susan. However, she doesn't need to care about the climate to conduct research and she can take a Master's degree in Meteorology. Her Engineering degree will be a good foundation anyway.
Take Action
So have you decided that you're interested?
Here's what to do next:
This Byte has been authored by
Ivett Csordas
Instructional Designer