Howard University Graduate Program in Atmospheric Science (HUPAS)

Howard University Graduate Program in Atmospheric Science (HUPAS)

Established in 1997, HUPAS offers Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in atmospheric science. The program prepares students—particularly those from traditionally underrepresented groups—for leadership careers in atmospheric science and related fields.

Affiliated with the Departments of Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, and Physics & Astronomy, HUPAS collaborates with federal agencies such as NOAA and NASA, as well as industry and academia, to diversify the atmospheric science workforce. In its short history, HUPAS has become a national model for excellence in research, education, and diversity, producing socially responsible scholars who address critical environmental and societal challenges.

Faculty Expertise

HUPAS faculty are recognized experts in:

  • Mesoscale meteorology
  • Climate modeling
  • Air quality modeling and field observations
  • Atmospheric physics and chemistry
  • Mechanical engineering applications

Research Areas

HUPAS maintains active research programs supported by NASA, NSF, DOE, and NOAA. Students at all levels work alongside faculty on projects addressing local to global atmospheric challenges.

Air Pollution & Urban Meteorology

Observation, simulation, and modeling of polluted urban boundary layers, urban climate impacts, and pollutant transport. Includes chemical modeling and data assimilation to forecast ozone and PM2.5.

Profs. Sakai, Wilkins, Ajoku, & Chiao

Climate Change – Atmospheric Dynamics

Numerical analysis of global and regional climate change from natural and human influences, including atmospheric variability and interactions using global climate models.

Profs. Ajoku, Chiao, Das, & Ichoku

Fire Weather & Wildfire Dynamics

Field and modeling studies of severe fire weather, fire-induced winds, and smoke emissions (PM2.5, black carbon, greenhouse gases) and their impacts on air quality and climate.

Profs. Wilkins & Ichoku

Mesoscale Processes

Dynamics of mesoscale waves, orographic precipitation, downslope winds, and drainage flows; advanced lidar-based profiling for climate and satellite validation.

Profs. Sakai & Chiao

Boundary Layer Meteorology

Observational and modeling studies of boundary layer evolution in complex terrain, cold air pools, and pollutant transport in the Washington-Baltimore corridor.

Profs. Chiao & Sakai

Tropical Meteorology

Processes of hurricane rapid intensification, tropical cyclogenesis, and the effects of Saharan dust and biomass burning on Atlantic weather systems.

Profs. Chiao & Ajoku

Weather Systems & Forecasting

Synoptic, mesoscale, and convective systems studied via modeling, observation, and theory.

Prof. Chiao

Research Centers

HUPAS students benefit from research opportunities through:

  • The NOAA Center for Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology (NCAS-M)
  • The Beltsville Center for Climate System Observation (NASA University Research Center)

Admission Requirements

Applicants typically hold degrees in chemistry, physics, mathematics, meteorology, engineering, or atmospheric sciences, with strong backgrounds in physics, mathematics, and (for atmospheric chemistry) chemistry. Computer skills are highly recommended.

Financial Support

Research assistantships ($30–$40K/year) and teaching assistantships are available. Contact faculty directly to be considered for support opportunities.

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Degree Requirements

Details: Master’s Program | Ph.D. Program

Master of Science

  1. Proficiency in math and physics (or completion of leveling courses)
  2. Pass one of three written proficiency exams
  3. Defend thesis proposal
  4. Complete and defend thesis
  5. 30 credit hours
  6. Full-time on campus

Doctor of Philosophy

  1. Proficiency in math and physics (or completion of leveling courses)
  2. Pass written qualifiers in specialty
  3. Defend dissertation proposal
  4. Complete and defend dissertation
  5. 72 credit hours
  6. Full-time on campus

Contact

Howard University Graduate School
Office of Graduate Recruitment and Admissions
2400 Sixth Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20059