Weather forecasters analyze atmospheric simulations from some of the most powerful computers on the planet. They collect observed data from stations, satellites, and buoys worldwide. Then they put all of this information together to prepare reports about likely weather conditions for a given geographical area in the immediate to short-term future. The educational requirements for forecasters vary considerably, owing to the different needs for weather forecasters in different industries and markets.

Minimum Requirements

Many meteorological job openings, especially those with local television newscasts, have low educational requirements for prospective hires. In most cases you only need to have a bachelor’s degree in the atmospheric sciences or meteorology, or in a closely-related field such as physics. Some employers will accept virtually any four-year degree. This level of education equips you to read weather data proficiently, but it does not provide you with a fluid understanding of the workings of the atmosphere.

Format-Specific Requirements

Some additional educational requirements may also apply, depending on the nature of the job. For on-air presenters in television or radio, employers like to see prior experience in the broadcasting industry, or other experience in front of a camera. Meteorologists who supply written reports must demonstrate good writing skills.

Communicating Versus Composing

The low minimum requirements for being a forecaster stem from the fact that popular weather forecasts like those on TV rarely consist of any scientific nuance. They only strive to inform the public about basic weather conditions in the near future, rather than explaining how it all works. Most weather presenters don’t even compose their own forecasts, and many would be hard-pressed to accurately explain the weather phenomena on which they report. Instead, they just collect forecast information from sources like the National Weather Service, and then add some local footage of a flooded road or kids playing in the sprinklers.

Higher Requirements

To understand the workings of the atmosphere and compose intelligent forecasts yourself, you need a higher level of education. For instance, prospective meteorologists for the National Weather Service must demonstrate advanced proficiency in physics, calculus, computer science, and of course, atmospheric science. Graduate degrees go a long way toward building upon the basics of a bachelor’s degree. Some of the better television meteorologists also possess this level of education, and executives in many of the large news markets such as those in Los Angeles and New York require it.

2016 Salary Information for Atmospheric Scientists, Including Meteorologists