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What We Offer
Atmospheric Science is the study of the physics, chemistry and dynamics of gases, clouds and aerosols that surround the planets and moons of the solar system. Hampton University scientists are at the forefront of discovery and exploration of the Earth's atmosphere, past, present, and future.
Planetary Science is the study of the origin and evolution of the planetary bodies in the solar system and beyond. At Hampton University, researchers study the dynamics of planetary interiors and atmospheres and the interaction of the solid planet, atmosphere and space environment at the Earth and planets within and beyond our Solar system.
As part of the Graduate College of Hampton University, we offer Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in both Atmospheric Science and Planetary Science.
M.S. Program: (30 credit-hours)
The Thesis-based Master of Science (M.S.)degree program provides a graduate level curriculum for students seeking the M.S. degree as a terminal degree, or as an intermediate step in pursuit of the Ph.D.
Ph.D. Program: (74 credit-hours)
The Dissertation-based Ph.D. program in atmospheric and planetary sciences at Hampton University provides advanced coursework and research experience beyond the M.S. level. The Ph.D. degree is granted to those students who demonstrate a high level of expertise in a specific area of the discipline, and the ability to perform original independent research that contributes to the development of the field. -
Who We Want
We are pushing the frontiers of knowledge to better understand our universe and our world. Hampton University researchers are exploring Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Titan, Io, Europa, Ganymede and extrasolar planets. From hurricanes on Earth to weather in space to dust storms on Mars and thunderheads on Saturn, we develop physical models of planetary processes and test them against data returned from telescopes, spacecraft, rockets, balloons and ground stations.
Students with a desire to explore the worlds around them are encouraged to apply, particularly applicants with backgrounds in:
• Physics
• Mathematics
• Meteorology
• Chemistry
• Engineering
• Geophysics
• Planetary Science
• Astronomy
• Computer Science
• Physical Oceanography
• Environmental Science
Students from other fields may also apply; please contact us. -
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Research Opportunities in Atmospheric Science
• Ozone Trends and Atmospheric Chemistry
• Polar Stratospheric and Mesospheric Clouds
• Space-Based Lidar and Related Technologies
• Ground-Based Lidar and Related Technologies
• Solar Variability and Effects on Earth
• Remote Sensing
• Satellite Data Assimilation in Weather Forecast Models
• Validation and calibration of satellite measurements
• Student-Run Satellite and Ground-Based Measurements Validation Campaigns
• Cirrus Clouds
• Atmospheric Aerosols
• Social Science Studies
• Creating Climate Data Records
Research Opportunities in Planetary Science
• Geophysics and Interior Dynamics
(Venus, Earth, Io, Europa, Ganymede…)
• Planetary Geology
(Mars, Europa, Ganymede …)
• Atmospheric Dynamics
(Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Titan)
• Spacecraft-based Remote Sensing
(Mars, Jupiter, Saturn)
• Earth-based Observation
(Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune)
• Atmospheric Modeling
(Venus, Paleo-Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune)
• Planetary Magnetospheres and Aurorae
• Space Weather -
Student Funding
All accepted students are offered full support (stipend, tuition, and benefits) as part of an existing funded research project. Continued funding will depend on acceptable academic and research progress and on the availability of funds.
Internships
Information about educational opportunities for students in the atmospheric and planetary disciplines including scholarships, internships, and fellowships are listed at Interships & Fellowships. Links to the opportunities include a brief description of each program, the application deadline, award amount, dates of the opportunity, contact e-mail address and a link to the website.
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Are you ready to join us?
We will start reviewing applications on February 1st, and continue until all positions are filled.
Application Check List
1. Make sure you satisfy our program's admission requirements.
Program Requirements:
• 3.0 GPA or higher
• 2 or more Semesters of Calculus
• Differential Equations
• Linear Algebra recommended
• 2 Semesters of Calculus-based Physics
• GRE (submit scores)
• TOEFFL (international students)
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement
• Computer Programming Skills
2. Check out the research opportunities available in our department -- the personal statement you will write in #3 should address one or more of the opportunities available in our department.
3. Follow the steps outlined on the graduate college website for domestic applicants or international applicants.
Apply Online:
www.hamptonu.edu/apply
4. Email the department chair, Dr. Robert Loughman to inform us that you have applied.
email: robert.loughman@hamptonu.edu
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Program Inquiries:
Dr. Robert Loughman, chair.
Phone: 757.727.5137
email: robert.loughman@hamptonu.edu
About Hampton University:
www.hamptonu.edu
Dept. of Atmospheric & Planetary Science
Hampton University
23 E. Tyler Street, Hampton, VA 23668
757-727-5108
science.hamptonu.edu/aps
cas.hamptonu.edu
