How Do I Become a Climatologist?

A climatologist is a scientist who focuses on the study of long-term weather patterns throughout the world. In order to become a climatologist, you will need to complete a high school education and develop a keen interest in science, particularly meteorology, geology, and related fields. Try to earn good grades in high school so you can be accepted to a strong college program; you will need at least a bachelor's degree in order to become a climatologist, and for some jobs in the field, you will need a master's degree or PhD.

To determine what level of education you will need to become a climatologist, it helps to read a few different job descriptions within the field. Entry-level positions may only require a bachelor's degree, while more advanced positions may require higher degrees. Think about your long-term career goals so you can make a strong decision about your schooling. You can always earn a bachelor's degree, work in the field, and then go back to school later on if you decide you want to further your education and, subsequently, your career.

It is important, of course, to choose a strong college program if you want to become a climatologist. Apply only to accredited institutions that offer coursework in the field in which you are interested, and find out if the school offers job placement services or internship opportunities. Be sure, too, that you can afford the tuition and fees to attend a particular institution.

Taking part in an internship while you are in college is a great way to develop professional relationships within the field, get real work experience that will help you build your resume, and learn relevant skills that will come in handy when you find full-time work. Some schools will help you find internship opportunities, but in most cases, you will need to research various companies or entities that offer internships and apply yourself.

Once you graduate from college with a bachelor's degree, you can take steps to become a climatologist by researching various climatology opportunities in your area. If you are willing to relocate, more job opportunities will open up for you as well. You may find a job with a private company, a non-profit organization, or even within a government agency. Be prepared to start at the bottom and work your way up through the ranks, learning as much as possible from more experienced climatologists.