DOCS Announces New BS in Coastal Meteorology

BATON ROUGE - From wind and waves to storm surge - even extreme heat – the impact of severe weather on coastal zones is growing. Nowhere is this apparent than Louisiana, where weather phenomena regularly affect communities, industry and even the coastline itself.

The need for meteorologists and atmospheric scientists who fully understand the dynamics of coastal weather, particularly in a place like Louisiana, is clear.

In order to help meet this need, the LSU Department of Oceanography & Coastal Sciences is excited to announce a new major, the Bachelor of Science in Coastal Meteorology.  

“Weather-related hazards like hurricanes and tropical storms impact Louisiana’s communities and industries and can significantly alter our state’s coastline. The research and learning opportunities created by our new BS in Coastal Meteorology will fuel discoveries and build the workforce necessary to protect and restore vital areas while advancing LSU’s leadership in coastal research,” said CC&E Dean Clint Willson.

"Our livelihoods in Louisiana are so intricately tied to the coast and to its weather that LSU is the natural place to study coastal meteorology. Our students will graduate well-prepared to tackle weather-related coastal issues and help keep our communities safe,” said Robert Rohli, a professor in DOCS and the director of the Coastal Meteorology program.

The degree was created to meet the workforce needs of the Louisiana coast, ensuring a pipeline of meteorologists well-versed in the issues impacting the area, and able to communicate effectively with communities.

Coastal Meteorology’s course path adheres to the OPM-1340 hiring standards, a set of qualifying requirements to be a meteorologist, as designated by the United States Office of Personnel Management. This ensures students who complete the degree will be eligible for meteorologist jobs with the federal government – a designation that also makes them more eligible for work in the private sector.

Students in the program will also have opportunities to build professional skills outside the classroom. The College of the Coast & Environment is home to many laboratories conducting research on relevant topics, from hurricanes to air pollution. Students will also be able to take advantage of internships at local television stations, the Louisiana State Office of Climatology, the LSU AgCenter, and more.