BSc Physics with Meteorology

Choosing the BSc Physics with Meteorology at the University of Edinburgh means gaining real-world skills in both physics and atmospheric sciences while learning in cutting-edge facilities alongside expert staff. This program is accredited by both the Institute of Physics and the Royal Meteorological Society. It is developed in collaboration with the School of GeoSciences—giving you the best of both worlds: a solid physics foundation and specialist meteorology training.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience and use top facilities at Edinburgh:

• Undergraduate physics and meteorology labs: Access hands-on experiments throughout your studies in the School of Physics and Astronomy’s purpose-built teaching laboratories.

• Computational Physics Laboratory (from Year 2): Use advanced programming tools, perform data analysis, and run simulations that reflect professional atmospheric and physical modelling work.

• Final-year group project: Collaborate with 4–5 peers to research, analyse, and present findings on a physics-based topic, enhancing teamwork, scientific communication, and independent inquiry skills.

• Specialist research facilities and digital tools: Engage in meteorological modelling, atmospheric data analysis, and experimental techniques using software and instruments used by professionals.

• Fieldwork opportunities: Participate in environmental and atmospheric measurements using digital field equipment, including UAVs/drones, for real-time data collection and interpretation.

• World-class library and computing facilities: Support your learning and research with access to scientific databases, journals, and advanced computing resources.

• King’s Buildings campus environment: Learn in a leading science and engineering hub with state-of-the-art teaching spaces and active research centres.

• Study abroad and international research links: Broaden your academic perspective through optional international exchanges and collaborations with global research groups.

• Student support and academic community: Take advantage of peer mentoring, academic advising, and dedicated student learning spaces to stay engaged, supported, and connected throughout your degree.

Further Academic Progression: Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped for careers in meteorology, atmospheric research, climate science, or physics-based industries, or to continue into postgraduate study in physics, environmental science, or applied meteorology.

University of Edinburgh’s BSc Physics with Meteorology prepares students for impactful careers in both physics and atmospheric science. Graduates are highly employable, moving into roles such as atmospheric scientist, meteorologist, environmental consultant, climate modeller, data analyst, and research scientist. Many alumni also pursue further study in atmospheric sciences, physics, engineering, or education, or work in sectors such as energy, finance, space, and media.

Here’s how Edinburgh specifically supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: The program provides a rigorous foundation in physics alongside specialist training in atmospheric physics, atmospheric dynamics, and the physics of climate. Students develop advanced mathematical, IT, and communication skills and gain experience in research methods, programming, data analysis, and laboratory techniques. In the final year, you will undertake specialist meteorology courses and a group research project, developing teamwork and presentation skills. Assessment methods include regular hand-ins, lab write-ups, presentations, peer assessment, and critical reviews of scientific literature, preparing you for real-world scientific and professional environments.

• Employment Stats & Salary: While specific salary data is not published, physics graduates from Edinburgh are highly sought after by employers for their advanced problem-solving and analytical skills. Graduates typically secure roles in environmental monitoring, modelling, and decision-making, as well as in engineering, manufacturing, energy, finance, medicine, and the space industries.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: The degree is presented in conjunction with the School of GeoSciences, giving students access to interdisciplinary expertise and research opportunities. Recent graduates have found employment with organisations such as the UK Met Office, the European Space Agency, IBM, and the BBC, as well as in research institutes and universities. The program’s content and connections make it particularly suitable for those interested in research careers in atmospheric sciences or environmental sectors.

• Accreditation: The BSc Physics with Meteorology is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) and the Royal Meteorological Society. Completion of this degree is recognised as an appropriate basis for those aspiring to become Chartered Meteorologists.

• Graduate Outcomes: Students graduate with a strong foundation in physics and meteorology, advanced quantitative and computational skills, and experience in collaborative research and scientific communication. The curriculum is designed to ensure readiness for both immediate employment and further academic or professional training.

Further Academic Progression: After your BSc Physics with Meteorology at Edinburgh, you can pursue a master’s in physics, atmospheric science, engineering, or related fields, or enter professional programs in education or research. The degree is also a strong foundation for careers in government agencies, environmental consultancies, research organisations, and the private sector.