Climate and Atmospheric Science

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) or above in a physical science such as (but not limited to) physics, mathematics, chemistry, engineering, geophysics, atmospheric or environmental science, meteorology or oceanography.

Whilst it is preferred that you have studied at least one year of university-level mathematics, it is not essential and additional courses are available as part of this course to support your learning.

Applicants with a 2:2 will be considered on a case-by-case basis where they can demonstrate relevant work experience or aptitude in a relevant specialist field. Graduates from other disciplines and those with professional experience in the sector will also be considered.

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Experts in atmospheric science and climate are highly sought after by industry, governments and not-for-profit organisations to address the climate crisis and provide predictions and solutions for the future.

Our Climate and Atmospheric Science Masters by Research degree (MRes) is for those of you who are passionate about taking on these challenges in climate. It’ll prepare you with the relevant knowledge and skills you’ll need to be one of the scientists delivering those solutions.

You’ll gain an excellent grounding in physical science, data analysis and research, along with practical and communication skills – all of which will prepare you for a career in climate, atmospheric or environmental sciences. You’ll have the opportunity to gain a broad overview of the key research areas in climate and atmospheric science such as air quality, weather and climate extremes, polar meteorology, climate and agriculture, atmospheric chemistry, aerosol science and paleoclimate. You’ll also develop highly transferable skills in these subjects, with a strong emphasis on quantitative data analysis, numerical modelling, experimental fieldwork and scientific communication.

Because this degree is an MRes, there’s a large focus on learning through research projects, which gives you the flexibility to pursue your own research interests, building the skills that’ll enhance your employability in a scientific career. It's also excellent preparation for a PhD.

You'll study in our School of Earth and Environment, which is home to several research centres and a wealth of expert academics and researchers who are leading groundbreaking research programmes and contributing to international assessments that inform policy. This means you’ll be learning the latest science alongside active changemakers, giving you the extensive skill set and in-depth understanding you’ll need to pursue a career in industry, government or academia.

Why study at Leeds:

• Learn the latest innovations in climate and atmospheric science from our five globally-renowned research institutes that are actively working to tackle the planet’s most pressing environmental challenges and whose work feeds directly into your course.
• This MRes focuses on learning and skills development through projects, with a research project (50%), taught courses in core research skills (25%) and optional taught modules.
• Learn the latest innovations in climate and atmospheric science, directly informed by researchers at the forefront of their fields and based in the University’s research centres and institutes such as the National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS), Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science (ICAS) and the Priestley Centre for Climate Futures (PICF).
• Advance your research skills and be regarded as a researcher within the School of Earth and Environment, expected to work closely with the Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science (ICAS) staff, attend seminars and other events, and present your research at the annual ICAS Science Conference along with academics and doctoral researchers.
• Tailor your course to suit your career or research aspirations, choosing from our large and diverse selection of optional modules.
• Access research-grade equipment that’ll assist your project work, including the University’s Research Computing facility, the Cohen Geochemistry labs, MetLab and electron microscopes, depending on your chosen topic.
• Develop practical research skills through an introductory field trip to Dale Fort.