Meteorology

This English-language, research-oriented Master's programme gives you a deep grounding in both the theoretical and experimental methods used in modern meteorology. It is designed to train you to independently investigate and answer contemporary questions in general, applied and theoretical meteorology. The curriculum combines classroom teaching with hands-on practicals so you learn to design experiments, run numerical simulations and interpret observational data.

Coursework covers core areas such as theoretical meteorology (including dynamics, radiative transfer and remote sensing theory), applied meteorology (including synoptic analysis, weather discussion and experimental methods), and a mix of experimental and numerical practical courses. You also choose from a broad meteorological curriculum and an interdisciplinary elective area to tailor the degree to your interests. The programme places emphasis on developing scientific skills, independent thinking and the technical methods required for research and diverse professional careers.

Teaching and research are closely integrated at the Leipzig Institute for Meteorology. The institute applies global climate and weather models alongside satellite, airborne and ground-based observations to study processes across the troposphere, middle and upper atmosphere, with a particular research focus on climate change impacts in the Arctic. Research groups cover topics such as atmospheric radiation, upper- and middle-atmosphere meteorology, clouds and global climate, remote sensing and Arctic climate systems, climate causality and attribution, aerosols and clouds, and cloud/precipitation observations. The programme benefits from longstanding national and international collaborations and measurement campaigns, and from regular specialist courses offered by scientists at the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS).

Core components and highlights

• Language of instruction: English
• Research-oriented programme emphasizing independent scientific work
• Core module areas: theoretical meteorology (dynamics, radiative transfer, remote sensing theory), applied meteorology (synoptics, weather discussion, experimental methods)
• Practical training: experimental and numerical lab courses and field/observational data analysis (satellite, airborne, ground-based)
• Electives: broad meteorological area plus interdisciplinary options to tailor your profile
• Research specialisms: weather and climate modelling across atmospheric layers; Arctic climate processes and climate-change effects
• Working groups: Atmospheric Radiation; Meteorology of Upper and Middle Atmosphere; Clouds and Global Climate; Remote Sensing and Arctic Climate System; Climate Causality; Climate Attribution; Aerosols and Clouds; Cloud and Precipitation Observations for Process Studies
• Strong collaborations: TROPOS, UFZ and participation in integrated projects such as (AC)³ and HALO, plus international measurement campaigns and partner institutions

Curriculum overview

This four‑semester, research‑oriented Master's programme is built around the current research activities of the Institute of Meteorology and its partner organisations. Courses and training follow the institute’s scientific priorities and are closely tied to the work of its research groups, so teaching content remains up to date with ongoing projects and collaborations.

The curriculum is organised into three complementary components: a compulsory core for a rigorous grounding in fundamental meteorology (notably dynamics and synoptics); a compulsory elective area that lets you specialise in general, experimental or theoretical meteorology under the direct guidance of the institute’s scientific working groups; and a dedicated research area that provides intensive, project‑style training in a chosen scientific topic. The programme concludes in the fourth semester with a Master’s thesis based on independent research.

Graduates leave with the research skills and subject‑matter depth to participate in meteorological research at an international level, having practised working within scientific teams and completed an extended research project.

Program structure — key components and learning outcomes

• Duration: four semesters, research‑driven format
• Compulsory core: intensive study of basic meteorology, with emphasis on atmospheric dynamics and synoptic meteorology
• Compulsory elective area: specialised modules in general, experimental, or theoretical meteorology, organised and taught in close cooperation with the institute’s scientific working groups
• Research area: intensive training in a focused scientific research topic, preparing you for independent investigation
• Master’s thesis (4th semester): independent research project that synthesises coursework and research training
• Intended outcomes: ability to conduct and contribute to meteorological research internationally, developed competence in scientific investigation and experience collaborating with active research groups

Graduates are prepared for careers in meteorological and climate research, applied weather and climate services, environmental agencies, and institutions that operate or analyse atmospheric observations and models. The programme’s research training also provides a solid foundation for doctoral studies and further academic research.

Hands-on experience with observational campaigns, numerical models and collaborations with research institutes enhances employability for roles in national weather services, research laboratories, environmental consultancies and international climate organisations.