You'll usually need a degree in meteorology or a related subject like:

• physical sciences
• maths
• geography
• computer science
• environmental science

You might need a postgraduate qualification in meteorology or climatology if you want to do research.

You can find out more about relevant degree subjects from the Royal Meteorological Society.

Getting experience of computer modelling during your degree or postgraduate course can be useful in this role.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

You can get  experience with the Met Office 10 week summer internship schemes. There are schemes for different groups, including graduates and A level students who are thinking about meteorology as a career.

You can apply to the Met Office for a place as a trainee on their forecasting and observations course.

You'll need a degree or equivalent qualification in science, maths or a related subject like geography. Other subjects may be accepted if you have the right qualities.

You'll need:

• maths knowledge
• knowledge of geography
• knowledge of physics
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to work well with others
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• excellent written communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As a forecaster you’ll:

• collect data from satellite images, radar, remote sensors and weather stations
• measure air pressure, wind, temperature and humidity
• forecast the weather by analysing information and using computer models
• give weather information and reports to customers

As a researcher you’ll:

• study weather patterns and climate change
• refine computer forecasting models
• use research to predict floods and droughts
• study how the weather affects the spread of pollution or disease

You could work in an office or at a client's business.

Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time.