Meteorology, Physical Oceanography and Climate: Utrecht University

About the programme

The two-year research Master’s programme Meteorology, Physical Oceanography and Climate (MPOC) aims to train talented and motivated students to become researchers with a solid grounding in this field and focuses on the fundamental physical processes that make up the Earth’s climate system.

Career Opportunities

Graduates receive the title Master of Science in Meteorology, Physical Oceanography and Climate. The degree course truly is a research Master’s programme. Most graduates find PhD positions at the Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research Utrecht (IMAU) or at other institutes in the Netherlands and abroad. Moreover, the analytical and computing skills and critical academic attitude towards research acquired during the Master’s programme are valued outside the academic world as well.

Entrance Requirements

Required degree

Applicants are therefore expected to hold one of the following degrees:

• a BSc with a major in physics
• a BSc with a major in science, including a substantial number of credits in advanced undergraduate physics and calculus
• at least with second-class honours (or equivalent honours, GPA or other rating) issued by an accredited institution of higher education in the Netherlands or abroad.

Proficiency in English

All other applicants, including applicants who hold a Dutch HBO diploma (diploma of higher professional education), must provide proof of proficiency in English. To do so, you are required to take one of the following English language tests:

• IELTS, Academic Module. Minimum score: 6.5 overall band, at least 6 for writing. IELTS is the test preferred by Utrecht University.
• TOEFL, Internet based. Minimum score: 93. Institutional scores are not accepted. The TOEFL institution code for Utrecht University is 9062.
• Cambridge Certificates
  • Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English at least a B grade.
  • Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English at least a C grade.