(Full time) 2018 start
Meteorology and Climate Science (International) MEnv, BSc
Overview
If you want to use science to understand and predict the behaviour of the Earth’s atmosphere – and to investigate the key challenges facing our time, such as atmospheric pollution, climate change and severe weather – then the MEnv, BSc Meteorology and Climate Science degree is for you.
The demand for knowledge and practical skills in atmospheric science is increasing. At Leeds you’ll develop a broad range of tools to tackle critical environmental issues right from the start.
Traditional meteorology courses take a very theoretical approach, but our course is unique. We combine theory with practice, so you can build a strong understanding of the processes in the atmosphere and then put that knowledge to test in the real world.
You’ll enjoy plenty of practical experience during our field trips each year, such as weather forecasting and taking atmospheric measurements on the Scottish island of Arran.
We are one of the few UK universities that offers a course focused entirely on meteorology and climate science. Here you’ll combine meteorology with a broader understanding of the climatic and environmental system, gaining a real breadth of knowledge leading to a wide range of careers.
At Leeds you can truly become an expert. To help you understand the complex behaviour of the Earth’s atmosphere and climate system, you’ll study all the main branches of atmospheric science combining mathematics, atmospheric physics, meteorology, atmospheric chemistry and climate science.
Your learning will be informed by the latest developments in research and you’ll gain a real insight into how climate change is impacting our world right now.
This is reinforced by our excellent international research carried out by the Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science, the National Centre for Atmospheric Science and the Priestly International Centre for Climate, all based at the University of Leeds, and our close relationship with the Met Office.
Four of our academics are lead authors of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, an international body that assesses climate change and influences policy.
The year abroad
A year in the USA or Australia can add real value to your degree, broadening your academic horizons and demonstrating a high degree of independence – attributes highly valued by prospective employers.
Your Year Abroad is fully integrated into your course, so it counts towards your final degree classification, and you take only Masters-level modules during your fourth and final year. Leeds was the first university in the UK to introduce the fully integrated international study year abroad and we have many years’ experience of working with internationally renowned institutions in North America and Australasia.
Hands-on field training
Unlike more traditional, theoretical courses you will focus on developing your understanding of processes in the atmosphere and your ability to put that knowledge to practical use during hands-on field training.
Enhancing your experience
We want to help you make the most of your time at Leeds. Read more in Student experience.
School of Earth and Environment
If you study in our School of Earth and Environment you’ll join one of the largest and most vibrant schools in the country.
Accreditation
This degree is accredited by the Royal Meteorological Society, the professional and learned body for weather and climate scientists. An accredited degree is a key step in becoming a Chartered Meteorologist, an increasingly important professional qualification. Accreditation by the industry body also enhances your CV and can help you stand out from the crowd.
Course content
The programme is designed around a combination of compulsory core modules, as well as opportunities to choose optional modules that allow you to follow areas of personal interest through our specialist pathways.
During Year 2 you'll have opportunities to acquire skills in particular areas of meteorology and climate science, and to maximise your employability in various aspects of the discipline. These specialist routes are supported by close links with our industrial partners, to ensure that the education we deliver prepares you for employment in a range of environmental careers.
You will spend your third year studying abroad at one of partner universities. The marks you receive are translated to Leeds equivalents and count towards your final degree classification.
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.
Learning and teaching
Most modules combine lectures with practicals, workshops or seminars, depending on the subject. These are enhanced with skills classes, fieldtrips and small group academic tutorials. You can expect to study in a variety of settings, from large lecture theatres to computer clusters, seminar rooms, tutorials, laboratories, visualisation suites and out in the field. Our state-of-the-art building is in the centre of the campus and provides an ideal working environment, and offers quiet study and coffee areas when you are not in class.
Read more about learning and teaching methods.
We offer research-led teaching across the breadth of our disciplines, from specialists in their field. As Leeds is a research-intensive Russell Group University, you’ll be studying amongst staff who are at the cutting edge of research world-wide, and who will incorporate this expertise into their teaching.
Facilities
Our £23.5 million building opened in April 2010 and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for both teaching and research. These include our groundbreaking Earth Visualization Laboratory, all brand-new microscopes and a 3-D suite. Read about facilities in the School of Earth and Environment.
On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
You'll be assessed through a variety of methods, specifically designed to help students learn, whatever their preferred learning style. We use both coursework and exams, but with a general progression from an emphasis on exams in year 1 towards an emphasis on coursework in your final year.
Read more in learning and teaching methods.
Entry requirements, fees and applying
Entry requirements
A-level: A*AA , including mathematics and either physics or chemistry.
Offers exclude general studies
GCSE: English and Mathematics at grade C or above, or an equivalent English language or Mathematics qualification.
Other course specific tests:Applicants for this degree should demonstrate a strong background in the physical sciences.
If you do not achieve the higher grades required for this four-year programme, we guarantee you a place on the BSc programme (provided you achieve the grades required for the BSc). A successful performance during years 1 and 2 will support an application to transfer back to this Integrated Masters programme.
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BTEC
D*D*D in Extended Diploma/3 Subsidiary Diplomas in two relevant subjects. We will accept a combination of BTECs and A-Levels. Please contact the School's Undergraduate Admissions Team for more information.
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International Baccalaureate
35 points overall, with 19 points at higher level to include 6 points in Mathematics and either Physics or Chemistry.
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Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
A1A1AAAA/H1H1H2H2H2H2 in two relevant subjects.
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Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
AAABB overall with AA in 2 Advanced Highers (AH). For non-AH applicants AAAAAA. To include Mathematics and either Physics or Chemistry.
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.
Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.
Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.
Access to Leeds Entry Requirements for this course: AAB
International
We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For information contact the School of Earth and Environment Undergraduate Admissions Team.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
How to apply
Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Admissions Policy
Faculty of Environment Undergraduate Admissions Policy 2018
Fees
UK/EU: See fees section below
International: £21,500 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.
The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. When the fee is available we will update individual course pages.
Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 are available on individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.
Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.
Read more about paying fees and charges.
Additional cost information
<p>While the School heavily subsidises or covers the cost of all compulsory taught fieldcourses, you may have to supplement these trips depending on the destination you choose. There will however always be a free option for you to select. You may incur some costs for some optional fieldtrip modules. Full details are available on request.</p>There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.
Financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.
The School of Earth and Environment offer a range of scholarships for Home, EU and International students.
Scholarships for 2019 entry are to be confirmed.
Career opportunities
Studying Meteorology and Climate Science at Leeds opens the door to a wide range of careers because of the solid science basis of the degree and the emphasis on practical skills and fieldwork. On graduation, you’ll be able to demonstrate an understanding of climate change and meteorological issues that is valued by the Met Office and other commercial weather forecasting companies, the armed forces, the Environment Agency and public organisations such as local authorities. Business and commercial interests, such as the insurance industry, also have interests in atmospheric science. The MEnv provides excellent preparation for further study, as well as careers in meteorology.
Our graduates typically pursue successful careers in meteorology, climate science and air quality control, as well as in industry, commerce and government services, where knowledge of the atmosphere is increasingly essential to policy and decision making.
Careers support
The School of Earth and Environment is committed to enhancing employability and offers a range of initiatives to ensure our students receive the highest level of support throughout their studies. Read about careers and employability on the School website.
We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.
Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.
The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.
Study abroad and work placements
Your year abroad
The School of Earth and Environment at Leeds was the first Department in the UK to offer integrated degrees with a year in North America and we extended the scope of this highly successful programme by offering additional partner institutions worldwide. Spending a year abroad is not only an adventure, it is a chance to add real value to your degree by experiencing environmental challenges that simply don’t exist within the UK.
Exchange universities for Meteorology and Climate Science (International) MEnv, BSc currently include:
USA
Australia
Academic staff members and the University’s Study Abroad Office will offer you their guidance and help as you prepare for your year abroad. You also retain the option to change to the three-year BSc Meteorology and Climate Science programme at any stage during your first two years of study should you decide not to pursue this option.
Fieldwork
Fieldwork will be an essential element of your degree, and is one of the most enjoyable and sociable parts of the course for students and staff alike. It provides an exciting opportunity for you to bring together your knowledge from different "classroom" courses and to apply it in real situations. The Meteorology and Climate Science programme at Leeds includes a variety of field course destinations.
Practical work in the field is introduced in Year 1, and includes a trip to Ogden Water and a weekend in Blencathra in the Lake District. In Year 2, our residential field course in the Lake District provides a challenging and enjoyable highlight to the year. The whole of your third year will be spent in one of our partner institutions overseas where you may undertake field studies that are not available to you in the UK. In Year 4, our flagship field course on the Isle of Arran is your opportunity to apply a range of skills and knowledge from previous years, and to use a variety of research instruments and measurement techniques. This gives you a real feel for research based on field observation, as it is conducted in the School.
Because we recognise the value of field experience the school covers the transport and accommodation costs for all compulsory taught fieldcourses and many optional field trips. We also contribute to fieldwork costs arising from your final-year research project.