Graduate studies

Earth & Planetary Science









The mission of the M.A. in Earth & Planetary Sciences program is to provide students with the scientific knowledge and technical skills to:
    (1) pursue careers in meteorology, astronomy, oceanography or geology either in the private sector or in government, or;
    (2) enhance knowledge in support of a career in secondary education -- in particular our courses support Connecticut cross-endorsement and New York state certification for physics and earth science, or;
    (3) allow students to continue with additional studies leading to a Ph.D. in atmospheric science, astronomy, oceanography or geology.

Our former students are now in Ph.D. programs and are employed as professional educators

The goals and objectives include:

  • Imparting an in-depth understanding of the factual and theoretical bases of the various disciplines in earth and planetary sciences;
  • Promoting scientifically-based critical thinking with regard to current issues in the earth and planetary sciences;
  • Familiarizing students with the application of technology and of scientific methods through astronomical observations, weather analysis and forecasting as well as data collection for meteorological, oceanic and
    geological applications via remote sensing and in-situ platforms;
  • Promoting an understanding of the scientific process and have students apply it to designing and analyzing experiments in support of independent research, and;
  • Promoting effective communication of scientific concepts in both oral and written formats.

Admissions Information

Program Information

Courses

Spring 2012
PHY 510: Thermodynamics (Dr. Boyle)

  • Thermodynamics (Curry and Webster)

PHY 530: Planetary Physics (Dr. Dawson)

Find out more about registration

Contact Information

For more information contact:

Dennis Dawson, Ph.D.
Graduate Program Coordinator
Physics, Astronomy & Meteorology Dept.
Western Connecticut State University
181 White Street
Danbury, CT 06810

Phone: (203) 837-8671

Email:  dawsond@wcsu.edu

WCSU Weather Information

Current Conditions in Danbury


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Wind: 3MPH from the ENE
Humidity: 92%
Pressure: 29.92 in.
Dew Point: 54° F


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