Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences

Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences at Princeton University offers a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum designed to explore the dynamic processes governing Earth's atmosphere and oceans. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of atmospheric physics, oceanography, climate variability, and related environmental phenomena. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, computational modeling, and empirical research, students develop the skills necessary to analyze and interpret complex climate data and to understand the scientific principles underlying weather and climate systems. The program emphasizes quantitative methods, encouraging students to acquire proficiency in applied mathematics, statistics, and computer programming, which are essential tools for contemporary atmospheric and oceanic research. It prepares graduates for careers in research, policy, and applied environmental sciences, including climate modeling, weather prediction, environmental consulting, and academia. Students can engage in cutting-edge research projects alongside faculty members who are leading experts in their fields, often utilizing Princeton’s state-of-the-art laboratories and supercomputing facilities. The curriculum also highlights the importance of understanding human impacts on climate and developing sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. By fostering analytical thinking, technical skills, and environmental awareness, the Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences program aims to cultivate the next generation of scientists and leaders equipped to address pressing global issues related to climate change, extreme weather, and Earth's environmental systems. Graduates leave Princeton prepared to contribute to scientific advancement and informed decision-making in an increasingly complex world.

Courses:

Upon entering the program, the student is advised by the graduate work committee until he or she selects an adviser from the program staff. The plan of study is flexible and is tailored to the needs of the individual, but during the first two years it normally concentrates on course work and independent preparation for the general examination.  A student usually takes seven to ten courses during his/her first two years to prepare for the general examination.

General Exam:

The general examination, probes the student’s knowledge of basic fluid dynamics, physics, and chemistry of the atmosphere and oceans and certain specialty areas through written examinations and a research seminar presentation. The purpose of the research seminar is to demonstrate the student’s ability to work independently and analyze a research problem.

The general examination is normally administered in the spring of the second year. This exam consists of two parts. Students take a written examination covering the basics of meteorology, oceanography and geophysical fluid dynamics. Each student is also asked to give an hour-long seminar in which he/she presents and defends his/her work on an original research problem, demonstrating the ability to work independently and analyze a research problem.

Qualifying for the M.A.:

The Master of Arts (M.A.) degree is normally an incidental degree on the way to full Ph.D. candidacy and is earned after a student successfully completes all course work and passes the written portion of the general examination.  It may also be awarded to students who, for various reasons, leave the Ph.D. program, provided that these requirements have been met.

Teaching:

Students are encouraged to teach as an assistant in instruction (AI) for two semesters during their time at Princeton, and teaching for one semester is strongly encouraged but not required. Teaching normally comes after the general examination, in the third and fourth years in the program.

Dissertation and FPO:

When the student passes the general examination, he/she pursues research for the Ph.D. thesis. This may or may not be a continuation of the research that was used as the basis for his/her general examination seminar. Students who enter the program with a background in atmospheric and oceanic sciences are encouraged to finish their thesis at the end of their 4th year in the program. Each thesis must be approved by the student's faculty adviser (1st reader)/and a second faculty member as the 2nd reader). The student defends his/her thesis at the final public oral examination. Final acceptance of the dissertation is conditional on passing this examination.

The dissertation must show that a candidate has technical mastery in the chosen field and is capable of independent research. The dissertation is expected to be a positive contribution that is of publishable quality. The final public oral examination is a broad examination in the field of study.

• Statement of Academic Purpose
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Recommendation Letters
• Transcripts
• Fall Semester Grades
• Prerequisite Tests
• English Language Tests
• All applicants must submit a $90 application fee or apply for an application fee waiver.

The Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences program at Princeton University offers a range of financing options to support its students throughout their academic journey. Funding opportunities include fellowships, research assistantships (RAs), teaching assistantships (TAs), and external scholarships. Most graduate students in the program are supported financially through a combination of institutional and external sources, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their scholarly pursuits.

Fellowships are awarded based on academic merit and research potential, providing full or partial tuition coverage along with a stipend for living expenses. These prestigious awards are often renewable for the duration of the program, contingent upon satisfactory progress. Research assistantships are typically funded through faculty research grants, allowing students to work closely with faculty members on cutting-edge projects related to atmospheric and oceanic sciences. TA positions involve assisting in undergraduate courses, grading, and leading discussion sections, offering an additional means of financial support while enriching teaching experience.

Princeton University also encourages students to apply for external fellowships and scholarships, which can supplement institutional funding. The university’s Office of Financial Aid provides guidance and resources to identify suitable funding opportunities, prepare applications, and meet financial planning needs. International students, as well as domestic students, are eligible for various assistantship and fellowship programs, subject to specific eligibility criteria.

The program’s financial assistance package aims to be comprehensive and competitive, ensuring that students can focus fully on their research and academic development without undue financial concern. Applicants are encouraged to reach out to the department’s administrative office or the university’s financial aid office early in their application process to discuss available options and application procedures. The university’s commitment to providing robust financial support underscores its dedication to cultivating a diverse and vibrant academic community in atmospheric and oceanic sciences.

The Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences (AOS) program at Princeton University offers students a comprehensive education in the physical sciences related to the Earth's atmosphere and oceans. This interdisciplinary program combines principles of physics, chemistry, mathematics, and environmental science to understand the complex processes governing weather, climate, and ocean dynamics. Students in the program have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, computational resources, and field research opportunities, enabling them to gain practical experience in observational techniques, data analysis, and modeling.

The curriculum includes core courses in atmospheric physics, oceanography, climate dynamics, and numerical methods, along with a variety of electives that allow students to specialize in areas such as climate change, atmospheric chemistry, or marine science. Undergraduate students often undertake research projects in collaboration with faculty members, providing valuable hands-on experience and contributing to ongoing scientific investigations. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in environmental consulting, meteorology, climate science research, or further academic study.

Princeton's geographic location and faculty expertise facilitate research in climate variability, ocean circulation, and atmospheric phenomena. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding the societal impacts of weather and climate, encouraging students to consider policy and management aspects of Earth sciences. Graduates of the Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences program typically demonstrate strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of Earth's climate systems, making them well-equipped for the challenges in scientific research, government agencies, and environmental organizations.