Meteorology and Air Quality (MMA) / MSc

Introduction

The MSc programme Meteorology and Air Quality focuses on processes and dynamics of the atmosphere over land from local to global scales. The acquired knowledge is applied to a variety of subjects related to weather, climate and air quality. During the last decades the knowledge of atmospheric processes has increased significantly, both with regard to the interrelationships between these processes and the numerical models by which they can be described. The development of new knowledge and techniques is increasingly dependent on the cooperation between scientists from various disciplines, and on a proper mix of theory development, laboratory and field research as well as numerical modelling.
The programme comprises three specializations:
- Meteorology and Climate
This specialization focuses on the study of atmospheric systems and physical processes from local to global scales, including the atmospheric boundary layer and processes at the interface between the atmosphere and the land surface. To fully describe the three-dimensional state of the atmosphere and its evolution in time, numerical models are indispensable. These usually require large amounts of data and knowledge of data acquisition is therefore essential. Measurements are crucial in the validation of models and in development of new and advanced measurement techniques. Physics of atmospheric systems and climate processes as well as computer skills and advanced statistics are key elements in this specialization.
- Atmospheric Chemistry and Air Quality
Students in this specialization study chemical processes and the composition of the atmosphere. An important topic is air quality: which is the study of the effects of changes in atmospheric composition on people and ecosystems. Since these effects occur close to the Earth's surface, a strong link exists with boundary-layer meteorology and dispersion of air pollutants. Numerical modelling of atmospheric chemistry and air quality, as well as the analysis of trace gases and their interaction with the Earth's surface (emission, deposition) provide a broad range of subjects that are highly relevant for densely populated countries like the Netherlands, and urban areas all over the world.
- Climate Change
This specialization is directed at the understanding of the entire climate system. It focuses on physical, chemical and biological processes at the regional and global scales and on their role in shaping and changing the atmosphere as part of the climate system. An important topic is the influence of human activities on climate, which is approached by studying changes in the biogeochemical cycles of the climate system.

Learning Outcomes

After succesful completion of this MSc programme graduates are expected to be able to:
- describe, analyse and assess physical and chemical processes in the atmosphere, in particular the exchange of energy, water vapour, momentum and substances near the Earth's surface, and how these affect Man and ecosystems;
- deal with the important aspects of observations and models, and recognise and apply new concepts as they emerge in the literature; - apply theoretical concepts and methods of meteorology, physical climatology and atmospheric chemistry;
- apply theoretical concepts and analytical techniques in order to analyse and resolve environmental and socio-economic problems which are related to atmospheric conditions;
- communicate ideas and research results effectively.
The programme is addressing students who wish to pursue a career as an academic professional or as a scientist. Graduates can find jobs in weather forecasting as scientific advisors or operational meteorologists at national institutes or commercial weather agencies. They can be employed as experts and consultants by environmental agencies or commercial agencies in the field of air quality. They can also enter careers in fundamental or applied research at universities and institutes. Graduates from this programme hold executive and staff positions as researchers, project leaders, consultants, advisers, process or environmental engineers, and commercial managers. Many graduates pursue an international career.

Specializations

- Meteorology and Climate;
- Atmospheric Chemistry and Air Quality;
- Climate Change.

Programme Director

Ir Th.M. Lexmond
Phone: 0317-(4)83304
Email: theo.lexmond@wur.nl

Study Adviser(s)

Ir A.M. Leemans
Phone: 0317-(4)82171
Email: alet.leemans@wur.nl

Programme Committee

Chair: Dr E. Hoffland
Secretary: Ir Th.M. Lexmond

Internet

http://www.mma.wur.nl

Study Association

Pyrus
Email: pyrus.bwa@wur.nl
Internet: http://www.pyrusbwa.nl