JLH-Meteorology-Class
Geography & Meteorology

GEOGRAPHY & METEOROLOGY

The Department of Geography & Meteorology at Valparaiso University offers strong majors in both geography and meteorology. Students pursuing a degree in geography or meteorology can expect to explore exciting careers as a geospatial data analyst, meteorologist, atmospheric scientist, climate risk analyst, GIS technician, emergency manager, cartographer, parks manager, imagery analyst, science educator, and more.

Meteorology Class

Excellence in Teaching

Dr. Teresa Bals-Elsholz, has been awarded the 2024 Edward N. Lorenz Teaching Excellence Award from the American Meteorological Society. She was chosen, “For innovative and engaging teaching, making challenging curricula accessible and enjoyable, enthusiastic career-long mentoring, and inspiring the next generation of atmospheric scientists, especially empowering women”.

She will formally receive the award at the 2024 AMS Annual Meeting in Baltimore during the awards ceremony.

New Frontiers

Professor Jon Paul McCool tests a Vibecore soil coring equipment, as Professor Teresa Bals-Elsholz cheers on. This one of the many tools students will use while conducting real world inquiry. Our undergraduate students participate in field data collection, research, analysis, and research communication. When they graduate, they hit the road running!

Meteorology in Action

Valparaiso University’s meteorology program, which gained the status of a major in 1991, has quickly become one of the nation’s most respected training grounds for professional meteorologists.

Geography in Real Life

With one of the oldest and most respected geography programs in the United States, Valpo has produced a steady stream of successful professional geographers.

Community of Distinction

Be part of a community of dedicated professors, excellent students, and engaged alumni and follow your shared passion in geography or meteorology. Forge your career as a leader, a team builder,  and a beacon in your field.

A solid foundation

Valpo programs in geographical sciences and atmospheric sciences share a commitment to rigorous learning experience both inside and outside the classroom. Classes in our Department of Geography and Meteorology merge theory and application, giving you the tools for your next step. Students experience hands-on learning through extensive field experience and internships.

Learn to forecast storms in the high plains from Texas to Montana, experience America’s natural environments through field expeditions, gain expertise in field techniques though observation, measurement, and analysis, and learn to analyze spatial data to make stunning digital maps.

Are degrees in geography and meteorology in demand? With a post-graduation placement rate over 91%, your foundation builds your future.

Commitment to your success

Prospective Valpo meteorologists and geographers please schedule a visit to the department!  We love to meet with future students and spend time with you learning about your interests and charting a suitable path for you. Admissions will set you up with a full tour and visit with a professor.  Just in case you haven’t been scheduled to meet with a professor, please contact the department chair Professor Teresa Bals-Elsholz.