Master of Science in Climate Physics: Meteorology and Physical Oceanography

This master's program gives you an in-depth, physics-based understanding of the atmosphere, the ocean and the coupled climate system. Teaching combines the language and laws of physics with climate science so you learn how physical principles govern atmospheric and oceanic processes. Coursework and training emphasize both experimental and theoretical approaches, with a clear link to ongoing research topics in climate physics.

You will be trained to present physical context clearly, to critically evaluate scientific problems, and to apply contemporary methods used in experimental and theoretical climate research. Mathematical techniques are treated as a core tool throughout the program — they are essential for formulating, analysing and interpreting physical relationships in climate science. The course is research-oriented and prepares students to work on current scientific questions in meteorology and physical oceanography.

Key features and expectations

• Instruction in English
• Advanced study of atmosphere, ocean and climate system using physical laws and terminology
• Training in experimental and theoretical methods, with exposure to current research
• Development of skills in presenting scientific context and critically assessing problems
• Practical application of modern methodologies in experimental and theoretical climate physics
• Strong reliance on mathematical methods; solid mathematical competency is indispensable

Curriculum overview

Teaching is delivered through a mix of lectures, hands‑on exercises and seminar-style courses. The programme uses the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), so you build your study plan from modular courses and can adapt your course choices within the programme’s formal guidelines.

The balance of formats is intended to combine theoretical grounding with practical problem‑solving and discussion of current research. Lectures convey the core physical principles; exercises give regular practice with quantitative methods; seminars develop presentation, critical reading and research skills. The ECTS structure also makes it straightforward to tailor the course mix to your interests and career goals.

Key module types and expected learning outcomes

• Lectures: systematic coverage of the physical foundations relevant to climate, meteorology and physical oceanography.
• Exercises: problem sets, numerical/practical work and supervised application of quantitative techniques.
• Seminars: student-led discussions, literature reviews and training in scientific communication.

Typical learning outcomes include:

• A solid conceptual and quantitative understanding of the physical processes governing atmosphere and ocean systems.
• Ability to apply mathematical and computational methods to analyse climate and weather phenomena.
• Experience in critical reading, oral presentation and written reporting of scientific material.
• Capacity to design a personalised study pathway and take responsibility for independent, research-oriented learning within the programme’s ECTS framework.

Curriculum requirements (concise)

• Completion of module work delivered as lectures, exercises and seminars.
• Accumulation of the required ECTS credits for the degree.
• Course selection and sequencing in line with the programme’s ECTS guidelines and regulations.

Graduates are prepared for research careers and further academic study (e.g. PhD programmes) in climate science, meteorology and oceanography. The programme’s strong grounding in mathematical methods, programming and modelling also equips alumni for analytical roles in research institutes, government agencies (e.g. national meteorological or environmental services), and organisations focused on climate and marine applications.

Additionally, the combination of theoretical, experimental and data-analysis skills is attractive to employers in environmental consultancy, climate risk assessment, and data-driven sectors that require advanced numerical and modelling expertise.