Skills Developed through an Earth & Atmospheric Science Degree

A background in Earth & Atmospheric Science ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges.

Core Skills

• Knowledge of the fundamental physical processes governing atmospheric and meteorological changes as well as developments in the Earth's interior
• Solid understanding of standard experimental techniques and practices through extensive laboratory work and exposure to hands-on field work
• Exposure to fundamental concepts in mathematics and the sciences

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

• The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements and written opinion pieces
• The ability to organize, understand and analyze sources of information and to apply novel forms of technology or new information to different professional settings and tasks
• The ability to learn new information and apply this to professional demands
• The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas
• The skills to collect various types of information, assess them, analyze and incorporate potential linkages from different fields, put them into writing and efficiently convey your message and the goal of your work

Management and Teamwork

• The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project's intended and successful end result
• Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
• The ability to debate, persuade, mediate and present your thoughts and opinions to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems
• The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.

• National Centre for Atmospheric Research
• Canadian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society
• Canadian Foundation for Climate and Atmospheric Sciences
• Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics
• York University Earth and Atmospheric Studies website