History

The Atmospheric Science program began in the late 1960s as a graduate-only program, first in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences and later in the College of Letters and Science’s Dept. of Geography. The first M.S. and Ph.D. recipients with concentrations in atmospheric sciences graduated in 1968 and 1972, respectively.

Our program moved three times over the next 50 years: to the Dept. of Geosciences in the late 1970s, the Dept. of Mathematical Sciences in 2000, and the School of Freshwater Sciences in 2022. Our undergraduate program began in the late 1970s as a concentration in the Geosciences major before becoming its own major in 1999. Our graduate programs continued as concentrations until the Atmospheric Sciences M.S. and Ph.D. programs were instituted in 2017.

We’re widely known for our Innovative Weather program, which began in 2007, and the nation’s first faculty-led atmospheric sciences study-abroad program, “Air Pollution and Ancient Cultures,” which began in 2010.

Statement of Commitment

The UWM Atmospheric Sciences Program is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where all identities, backgrounds, and perspectives are celebrated, valued, and respected. We want to ensure everyone in our program has an enjoyable and fulfilling experience, and to nurture a secure and supportive environment where everyone can reach their full potential. We are dedicated to a harassment-free and non-discriminatory experience for everyone, regardless of gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race, age, and/or religion, and are committed to promoting equality and compassion in our courses and research.

Complaints and Reporting Policies

The UWM Atmospheric Sciences Program is committed to supporting students who experience microaggressions, harassment, discrimination, and/or overt racism or sexism by providing clear complaints and reporting policies. In general, we refer students to the university-wide reporting policies for discrimination — the full UWM discriminatory policy is available here. Complaints can be made in-person at UWM’s Office of Equity/Diversity Services or via phone/email. Anonymous reports are permitted, and additional resources available to students include counseling services, student centers, and other university resources. Students are also encouraged to reach out to us — the Atmospheric Sciences faculty are committed to being your advocates.