Undergraduate and Graduate Adventures: Where Education Meets the Elements

Immerse yourself in the extraordinary world of atmospheric science through the Mount Washington Observatory’s Undergraduate and Graduate Adventures. Our program is designed to offer students at all levels—from those just beginning their journey in meteorology to advanced graduate researchers—a range of unique, hands-on experiences that blend rigorous scientific inquiry with the excitement of exploring one of the most extreme weather environments on Earth. Please note that there are a limited number of spots available for winter, which will be granted to universities on a first-come, first-served basis until they are filled. All other requests will be moved to Fall, Spring, or Summer after that point.

Undergraduate Opportunities

For undergraduates, the program offers a dynamic mix of classroom connections, day trips, and practical learning experiences. Whether you’re participating in a guided tour of our weather station, engaging in real-time data collection, or attending interactive presentations, you’ll gain invaluable insights into the world of meteorology. These experiences are tailored to enhance your understanding of weather phenomena, introduce you to the tools and methods used by professionals, and inspire a deeper passion for atmospheric sciences. We offer the opportunity to pair students with our team to conduct meaningful research projects. Whether it’s for an independent study, a university-based research course, or another academic endeavor, students can collaborate with our experts to advance both their academic goals and the Observatory’s research initiatives.

Graduate-Level Challenges

Graduate students are invited to delve deeper into specialized areas of study. Our program includes opportunities for in-depth research, collaboration with seasoned meteorologists, and the chance to contribute to ongoing projects that explore the complexities of weather systems and climate processes. You’ll have access to advanced observational tools, participate in fieldwork that challenges your knowledge, and work in an environment that pushes the boundaries of what is known about our atmosphere. We emphasize pairing graduate students with our research team to undertake significant research projects that help advance our understanding of atmospheric sciences. These collaborations can align with independent studies, university research courses, or other academic frameworks, where our team acts as both mentors and clients, guiding students while contributing to our own research efforts.

A Transformative Experience

Whether you’re into forecasting, research, instrumentation and data acquisition, or broadcast meteorology, there is a program for you at the Mount Washington Observatory. Both undergraduate and graduate participants will find that the Mount Washington Observatory is more than just a weather station—it’s a living laboratory where education meets adventure. With each level of offering, from introductory tours to graduate research projects, you’ll be part of a community dedicated to understanding and preserving our planet’s climate and weather systems.

Join us at the Mount Washington Observatory and take your first steps towards a future in atmospheric science, or deepen your expertise in a field that’s crucial to our understanding of the world.

Studying in Other Scientific Disciplines?

Working in a field related to meteorology and interested in research on the summit? Reach out to us with your ideas to see if we might make a good fit at research@mountwashington.org.

Adventures and Experiences

At the Tropical Storm Level, students embark on their initial journey into the dynamic world of meteorology. This level is designed to introduce participants to the core concepts of atmospheric science through engaging and interactive experiences. Whether you’re attending a classroom connection session or participating in a guest lecture, you’ll gain foundational knowledge that prepares you for more advanced study.

The Tropical Storm Level offers a blend of educational activities that emphasize real-world applications, including:

  • Guest Lectures in Your Classroom
  • Distance Learning On Your Screen

This level is perfect for those who are just beginning to explore their interest in weather and climate, providing the skills and insights needed to understand the basics of forecasting, research, and instrumentation.

Cost:

  • Guest Lecture: $200 plus mileage at the current federal government rate
  • Distance Learning: $200 for virtual sessions

The Category 1 Level builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in the Tropical Storm Level, offering a more immersive and hands-on experience in atmospheric science. This level is ideal for students who are ready to delve deeper into the intricacies of weather systems and explore more advanced aspects of meteorology.

Category 1 Level includes:

  • In-Depth Weather Station Tour

Participants will have the opportunity to explore the operations of one of the world’s most renowned weather observatories. This exclusive tour provides a closer look at the instruments, technology, and processes used by meteorologists to monitor and analyze weather conditions in real-time.

This level is perfect for those looking to enhance their understanding of meteorology through direct interaction with both the technology and the experts that drive modern atmospheric research.

Cost:

  • $70 base fee per program, plus $37 per student taking part.
  • Transportation costs for program:
    • $50 vehicle transportation fee when Mt. Washington Auto Road is open.
    • $100 vehicle transportation fee when Mt. Washington Auto Road is closed.
    • $1,200 snow tractor transportation fee when Mt. Washington Auto Road is closed.

The Category 2 Level is designed for students who are ready to take their meteorological skills and knowledge to the next level. Building on the experiences offered in both the Tropical Storm and Category 1 Levels, this level provides even more in-depth and specialized opportunities to engage with the science of weather.

Category 2 Level includes:

  • Overnight Summit Adventure: Participants will stay overnight on the summit, with accommodations that include a bunk and four meals (from lunch to lunch). This immersive experience offers 3 to 5 hours of practical, hands-on learning through presentations and interactive sessions.

Each overnight experience can be tailored to focus broadly on atmospheric sciences and weather operations or delve deeper into specific areas such as forecasting, broadcast meteorology, instrumentation and data acquisition, or research. This level is perfect for those who are passionate about meteorology and eager to contribute to meaningful research while refining their technical abilities.

Cost:

  • $210.00 base fee per program, plus $238 per student taking part.
  • Transportation costs for program:
    • $50 vehicle transportation fee when Mt. Washington Auto Road is open.
    • $100 vehicle transportation fee when Mt. Washington Auto Road is closed.
    • $1,200 snow tractor transportation fee when Mt. Washington Auto Road is closed.

The Category 3 Level offers a deep dive into the world of meteorological science, designed for students who are ready to immerse themselves in advanced study and hands-on practice. Building on the comprehensive experiences from the Tropical Storm, Category 1, and Category 2 Levels, this stage provides an unparalleled opportunity for in-depth learning and professional growth.

Category 3 Level includes:

  • Week-Long Summit Immersion: Participants will spend a full week on the summit, from Wednesday to Wednesday, living and working alongside our experienced meteorologists. This extended stay allows for a thorough immersion in the Observatory’s operations and the unique weather phenomena of Mount Washington.
  • In-Depth Practical Sessions: Throughout the week, students will engage in intensive practical sessions, workshops, and presentations that delve deeper into specific areas of interest. This could include advanced forecasting techniques, specialized data acquisition and instrumentation, or even creating a professional broadcast meteorology forecast reel based on the week’s observations and weather events.

This level is perfect for those who are passionate about gaining a comprehensive and immersive experience in atmospheric science, offering a unique opportunity to apply their knowledge in one of the world’s most challenging weather environments.

Cost:

  • $2,100 base fee per program, plus $1,407.00 per student taking part.
  • Transportation costs for program:
    • $50 vehicle transportation fee when Mt. Washington Auto Road is open.
    • $100 vehicle transportation fee when Mt. Washington Auto Road is closed.
    • $1,200 snow tractor transportation fee when Mt. Washington Auto Road is closed.

The Category 4 Level represents the pinnacle of our educational offerings, designed for students who are ready to fully immerse themselves in the field of meteorology through a multi-week adventure. This level is akin to an internship, providing an unparalleled opportunity to specialize in one of the previously mentioned focus areas: forecasting, broadcast meteorology, data acquisition and instrumentation, or research.

Category 4 Level includes:

  • Extended Multi-Week Engagement: Participants will commit to a multi-week stay at the Mount Washington Observatory, where they will engage in an intensive, focused study tailored to their chosen area of interest. This extended period allows for deep exploration and practical application of advanced meteorological concepts.
  • Mentorship and Professional Development: Students will benefit from close mentorship by our research and education meteorologists, weather observers, scientific advisory committee, and other research staff. This mentorship will provide invaluable guidance, helping participants refine their skills, expand their knowledge, and prepare for a professional career in meteorology or related fields.
  • Specialized Projects and Responsibilities: At this level, participants will take on specialized projects that contribute to the Observatory’s ongoing research and educational efforts. Whether it’s leading a data acquisition project, developing a comprehensive weather forecast, or producing a broadcast meteorology reel, students will gain hands-on experience that is both challenging and rewarding.

This level is perfect for those who are committed to mastering their chosen field within atmospheric science and are eager to engage in a transformative educational experience that bridges the gap between academic study and professional practice.

Cost:

  • A custom quote will be provided based on the scope and duration of the engagement. Please reach out to research@mountwashington.org for more information and to receive a quote.

The Category 5 Level represents the ultimate opportunity for those ready to lead significant, original research in atmospheric science. This advanced fellowship offers a multi-month commitment, allowing participants to undertake an independent research project with the potential for publication or to contribute to ongoing studies at the Mount Washington Observatory.

Category 5 Level includes:

  • Independent Research Leadership: Students will design and execute a research project of their choice, under the mentorship of the Observatory’s expert scientists and our Science Committee. This experience is tailored for those aiming to make a significant contribution to the field of meteorology.
  • Presentation of Findings: Participants will have the opportunity to present their research to peers, professionals, and potentially at conferences or seminars, furthering their professional development and exposure.
  • Professional Networking: Engage with a network of visiting scientists, industry professionals, and experts in atmospheric science. This level offers unparalleled opportunities to build connections that could influence future academic or professional pursuits.

The Category 5 Level is ideal for students who are not only passionate about advancing their knowledge but are also driven to lead innovative research and make impactful contributions to the field of meteorology.

Cost:

  • A custom quote will be provided based on the scope and duration of the engagement. Please reach out to research@mountwashington.org for more information and to receive a quote.

Are you ready to take your meteorological skills to new heights? Engage with our summit scientists and valley educators to explore the cutting-edge research and extreme weather phenomena that make Mount Washington a unique environment for atmospheric science. Our programs are designed for undergraduate and graduate students who are passionate about deepening their understanding of weather, climate, and the technology that drives modern meteorology. Whether you’re interested in forecasting, research, instrumentation, or broadcast meteorology, we have a program tailored to your academic and career goals. Contact us today to learn more about how you can be part of this transformative experience!

Have a question or a specific idea in mind? Contact us by email at research@mountwashington.org or by phone at 603-356-2137 ext. 231.