After my first storm chasing expedition in 2003, I became seriously interested in meteorology. I was a recent Penn State grad, so for fun I decided to see if they had any distance ed meteorology classes. I found Meteo 101, the first course of the program. That course exposed me to aspects of meteorology outside of storm chasing, and with each changing season I found my love of the subject growing. In 2005 I enrolled in the tropical forecasting class, and also in the traditional "sit in" classroom for my MHA degree. The online format made it possible to do both; I could go to my regular classes and work then do the certificate classes on my days off (or during slow times at work). The flexibility is great! I also enjoyed the interaction with classmates...felt like we were a "little family" even before meeting anyone in person. Dr. Grenci, Steve, and Dr Babb were totally awesome, a pleasure to work with. They are passionate about the subject and their students and are experts in the field. I would recommend this program to anyone!
I'm currently in the 2nd of the 4 courses that comprise the Certificate Program. It is my first online educational experience. I find the faculty to be extremely accessible and help make the concepts taught comprehensible to the well-educated non-scientist. Overall I've had a superb experience, and I look forward to completing it.
Four outstanding weather forecasting on-line college credit classes from basic to advanced. The Penn State University instructors are top notch and will help you succeed. You'll be challenged to think critically on tests, on-line discussions and writing assignments. For the serious minded meteorology student it will be well worth your effort and expense to enroll in the Certificate in Weather Forecasting program.
Superb program that I got everything I wanted out of and more. Class materials are fantastic and faculty is 100% engaged for you all the time. More interaction online than most in-person classes that I have taken.
Perfect choice for anyone interested in weather--from degreed professionals looking to brush up, to on air broadcasters, or just plain old weather weenies this program is great. You will not find a program with a better mixture of science of and concepts about the weather than this!
This is a fantastic program for professionals who want to be able interpret vital weather information and be able to make their own forecast for work or hobby without a BS degree. The instructors are friendly and the course material is first rate.
