Climate and Atmospheric Science

Experts in atmospheric science and climate are highly sought after by industry, governments and not-for-profit organisations to address the climate crisis and provide predictions and solutions for the future.

Our Climate and Atmospheric Science Masters by Research degree (MRes) is for those of you who are passionate about taking on these challenges in climate. It’ll prepare you with the relevant knowledge and skills you’ll need to be one of the scientists delivering those solutions.

You’ll gain an excellent grounding in physical science, data analysis and research, along with practical and communication skills – all of which will prepare you for a career in climate, atmospheric or environmental sciences. You’ll have the opportunity to gain a broad overview of the key research areas in climate and atmospheric science such as air quality, weather and climate extremes, polar meteorology, climate and agriculture, atmospheric chemistry, aerosol science and paleoclimate. You’ll also develop highly transferable skills in these subjects, with a strong emphasis on quantitative data analysis, numerical modelling, experimental fieldwork and scientific communication.

Because this degree is an MRes, there’s a large focus on learning through research projects, which gives you the flexibility to pursue your own research interests, building the skills that’ll enhance your employability in a scientific career. It's also excellent preparation for a PhD.

You'll study in our School of Earth and Environment, which is home to several research centres and a wealth of expert academics and researchers who are leading groundbreaking research programmes and contributing to international assessments that inform policy. This means you’ll be learning the latest science alongside active changemakers, giving you the extensive skill set and in-depth understanding you’ll need to pursue a career in industry, government or academia.

Why study at Leeds:

Learn the latest innovations in climate and atmospheric science from researchers at the forefront of their fields who are based in our globally-renowned Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science (ICAS) , National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS) and Priestley Centre for Climate Futures. We are actively working to tackle the planet’s most pressing environmental challenges and this work feeds directly into your course.

Advance your research skills and be regarded as a researcher within the School of Earth and Environment, expected to work closely with academic and research staff, attend seminars and other events, and present your research at the annual ICAS Science Conference along with academics and doctoral researchers.

Tailor your course to suit your career or research aspirations, choosing from our diverse selection of optional modules.

Access research-grade equipment that’ll assist your project work, including the University’s Research Computing facility, the Cohen Geochemistry labs, MetLab and electron microscopes, depending on your chosen topic.

Develop hands-on practical experience and research skills through an introductory residential trip, usually to Dale Fort Centre in South Wales.