The study of meteorology in Egypt is one of the important and growing fields in recent years. This science is concerned with studying the atmosphere and its various phenomena, such as weather, climate, and weather changes.
Egyptian universities offer specialized programs in this field, which contributes to preparing qualified cadres to work in various related sectors. This specialty is of great importance due to the impact of climate changes on Egypt and the region.
History of meteorology in Egypt
Meteorology in Egypt has deep roots extending back to ancient times. This science has developed over time to become an essential part of the country's scientific and technological structure. Since the establishment of the first official meteorological station until today, this field has witnessed great progress in Egypt, making it an important regional center in the field of meteorology.
- Antiquity: The ancient Egyptians' interest in atmospheric phenomena for agricultural and religious purposes.
- 1829: Establishment of the first official meteorological station in Egypt in Cairo.
- 1898: Establishment of the Egyptian Meteorological Authority.
- 1950: Establishment of the Department of Meteorology at the Faculty of Science, Cairo University.
- 1971: The Meteorological Department was transformed into the General Meteorological Authority.
- 1980s: Remote sensing and satellite technologies begin to be used.
- 2000s: Development of digital forecast models and improvement of the network of monitoring stations.
- Currently: Egypt is an active member of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
Stages of development of meteorology in Egypt
Meteorology in Egypt developed through several main stages, each of which added a new dimension to this important science. It began with simple observations of weather phenomena, then developed into an integrated science based on modern technologies and complex mathematical models. This development contributed to improving the accuracy of weather forecasts and a deeper understanding of the Egyptian climate.
- The first stage: rudimentary observations and manual recording of weather phenomena.
- The second stage: establishing a network of weather monitoring stations and standardizing measurement methods.
- The third stage: introducing modern electronic devices and communications systems.
- The fourth stage: using computers to analyze data and predict the weather.
- The fifth stage: Employing remote sensing and satellite technologies.
- Sixth stage: developing digital models for weather and climate forecasting.
- The current stage: Focus on studying climate change and its effects on Egypt.
The importance of the development of meteorology in Egypt
The development of meteorology in Egypt is of great importance on several levels. It contributes to improving the quality of life and protecting lives and property through accurate prediction of dangerous weather phenomena.
It also plays a vital role in supporting various economic sectors, especially agriculture, tourism and transportation. In addition, it helps in understanding and evaluating the effects of climate change on Egypt.
- Improving the accuracy of short- and long-range weather forecasts.
- Supporting decisions in the areas of agriculture, irrigation, and water resources management.
- Contributing to the planning and implementation of sustainable development projects.
- Enhancing the safety of air and sea transportation.
- Providing vital information for the tourism sector and recreational activities.
- Supporting efforts to adapt to climate change and mitigate its effects.
- Strengthening regional and international cooperation in the field of meteorology.
Advantages of studying meteorology in Egypt
Studying meteorology in Egypt is characterized by diverse job opportunities in the public and private sectors. Students gain valuable analytical and technical skills that can be applied in multiple fields. This study also contributes to a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges facing Egypt and the region.
- Job opportunities in the Meteorological Authority, airports and ports
- Possibility of contributing to sustainable development projects
- Acquire skills in data analysis and computer modeling
- Participate in scientific research related to climate change
- Possibility of working in the field of renewable energy and agriculture
Conditions for studying meteorology in Egypt
Studying meteorology in Egypt requires a set of academic and personal conditions. The student must obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent, with a focus on scientific subjects such as physics and mathematics. Most universities require that the student obtain a high grade point average for admission to this major. This field also requires an interest in the natural sciences and the ability to analyze and think logically.
- Obtaining high school diploma (scientific section) with a high grade
- Proficiency in English
- Passing the college admission tests
- Have good analytical and mathematical skills
- Interest in natural sciences and weather phenomena
Duration of studying meteorology in Egypt
Studying meteorology in Egypt usually takes 4 years to obtain a bachelor's degree. This period includes:
- Study basic subjects in physics, mathematics and chemistry
- Specialization in meteorological subjects such as aerodynamics and weather forecasting
- Practical training on the use of meteorological monitoring tools and techniques
After the bachelor's degree, students can pursue postgraduate studies for a master's degree (usually 3 years) or a doctorate (an additional 5-XNUMX years).
Branches and specializations of meteorology in Egypt
Several stand out Branches and specializations of meteorology Covering various aspects of this science. These specializations include traditional meteorology, which focuses on weather analysis and forecasting, as well as climatology, which studies long-term climate changes and their effects on the environment and the economy.
General meteorology
This section is the foundation for understanding meteorology. Covers basic concepts of weather and climate, and provides students with the skills needed to analyze and interpret weather data. This department is considered the cornerstone of all other specializations in meteorology.
- Study of the components and layers of the atmosphere
- Analysis and interpretation of weather maps
- Understanding air and water cycles
- Study of basic weather phenomena such as atmospheric pressure and humidity
Physical meteorology
This section focuses on the physical aspects of the atmosphere. Students study the physical laws that govern the behavior of the atmosphere and the processes that lead to weather changes. This deep understanding helps develop more accurate weather forecasting models.
- Study of the thermodynamics of the atmosphere
- Understanding the processes of cloud formation and precipitation
- Study of radiation transmission in the atmosphere
- Analysis of interactions between the atmosphere and the surface
Atmospheric dynamics
This section deals with the study of air movement and its changes in the atmosphere. Students learn how to understand and analyze atmospheric circulation and wind patterns, which helps understand how weather systems develop and move.
- Study of equations of motion in the atmosphere
- Analysis of global and local circulation patterns
- Understand the effect of Earth's rotation on air movement
- Study of the formation and development of hurricanes and storms
Weather forecasting
This section is one of the most important practical applications of meteorology. Students learn how to use data and mathematical models to predict future weather conditions. This includes the use of modern technologies and high-performance computing.
- Develop skills of analyzing and interpreting numerical prediction models
- Study short- and long-term forecasting techniques
- Use specialized software in weather forecasting
- Learn how to formulate and present weather forecasts to an audience
Climate and climate change
This section focuses on studying long-term weather patterns and how they change over time. Students learn how to analyze climate data and understand the factors that influence global climate change.
- Study of the climate system and its elements
- Analysis of historical climate records
- Understand the causes and effects of global climate change
- Study climate prediction models and future scenarios
Applied meteorology
This department is concerned with the application of meteorological knowledge in various fields such as agriculture, aviation and maritime transport. Students learn how to adapt their knowledge to meet the needs of specific sectors.
- Study the effect of weather on agricultural production
- Understand aviation meteorological requirements
- Applications of meteorology in water resources management
- Study the impact of weather on transportation and energy
Meteorological monitoring tools and techniques
This section focuses on the tools and techniques used to collect and analyze atmospheric data. Students learn how to use and maintain a variety of monitoring devices, as well as analyze data from various sources.
- Training on the use of ground meteorological stations
- Study of remote sensing techniques (satellites and radar)
- Learn to analyze and interpret satellite images
- Training on maintenance and repair of weather monitoring devices
Marine meteorology
This department specializes in studying interactions between the atmosphere and oceans. Students learn how to understand and predict weather-related marine and coastal phenomena.
- Study of the dynamics of the interaction of the atmosphere and oceans
- Understand the impact of ocean currents on global climate
- Learn to predict marine phenomena such as storms and waves
- Study the impact of climate change on sea levels and marine ecosystems
Universities to study meteorology in Egypt
The study takes place at Egyptian universities and the Meteorological Authority, where modern technologies are used to predict weather and analyze climate data. Graduates of this major contribute to developing climate change adaptation strategies and natural resource management in Egypt.
- Cairo University - Faculty of Science
- Alexandria University - Faculty of Science
- Ain Shams University - Faculty of Science
- Al-Azhar University - Faculty of Science (for boys and girls)
- Helwan University - Faculty of Science
- Mansoura University - Faculty of Science.
Read also: The most important international universities for studying meteorology
Studying meteorology in Egypt at Cairo University - Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science at Cairo University is one of the most prestigious colleges in Egypt that offers the specialty of meteorology. The program is distinguished by its long history and high quality of education. Students benefit from advanced laboratories and distinguished academic experiences. The college offers various research opportunities in the field of meteorology and climate sciences.
- Location: Giza, Egypt
- Educational degrees: Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
- Average fees: 5000-7000 Egyptian pounds annually for Egyptians
- The top 5 majors: meteorology, physics, chemistry, geology, and mathematics
- Language of study: Arabic and English
- Conditions: Obtaining high school diploma (science) with a grade of no less than 90%.
Studying meteorology in Egypt at Alexandria University - Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science at Alexandria University offers an outstanding program in meteorology. Students take advantage of the university's location near the Mediterranean Sea to study marine weather phenomena. The college features modern laboratories and its own meteorological station. Students participate in applied research projects in cooperation with local and international bodies.
- Location: Alexandria, Egypt
- Educational degrees: Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
- Average fees: 4500-6500 Egyptian pounds annually for Egyptians
- The top 5 majors: meteorology, marine sciences, physics, chemistry, and space sciences
- Language of study: Arabic and English
- Conditions: Obtaining high school diploma (science) with a grade of no less than 85%.
Studying meteorology in Egypt at Ain Shams University - Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science at Ain Shams University features a strong program in meteorology. The program focuses on the theoretical and applied aspects of science. The college cooperates with the Egyptian Meteorological Authority to provide practical training for students. Students benefit from advanced laboratories and a meteorological station on campus.
- Location: Cairo, Egypt
- Educational degrees: Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
- Average fees: 5500-7500 Egyptian pounds annually for Egyptians
- The top 5 majors: meteorology, physics, chemistry, geology, and computer science
- Language of study: Arabic and English
- Conditions: Obtaining high school diploma (science) with a grade of no less than 88%.
Studying meteorology in Egypt at Al-Azhar University - Faculty of Science (for boys and girls)
The Faculty of Science at Al-Azhar University offers an outstanding program in meteorology for both male and female students. The program combines modern science and Islamic values. The college is distinguished by the presence of its own meteorological observatories and advanced laboratories. Students receive practical training at various meteorological institutions.
- Location: Cairo, Egypt (branches in several governorates)
- Educational degrees: Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
- Average fees: 3000-5000 Egyptian pounds annually for Egyptians
- The top 5 majors: meteorology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, and environmental sciences
- Language of study: Arabic with some courses in English
- Conditions: Obtaining Al-Azhar Secondary School (Science) or its equivalent with a grade of no less than 75%.
Studying meteorology in Egypt at Helwan University - Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science at Helwan University provides a comprehensive program in meteorology. The program focuses on practical applications and scientific research. The college features modern laboratories and an advanced meteorological station. Students participate in research projects that address local and regional environmental and climate issues.
- Location: Cairo, Egypt
- Educational degrees: Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
- Average fees: 4000-6000 Egyptian pounds annually for Egyptians
- The top 5 majors: meteorology, physics, chemistry, geology, and space sciences
- Language of study: Arabic and English
- Conditions: Obtaining high school diploma (science) with a grade of no less than 80%.
Studying meteorology in Egypt at Mansoura University - Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science at Mansoura University offers an outstanding program in meteorology. The program takes advantage of the university's location in the Nile Delta to study weather phenomena associated with coastal and agricultural areas. The college features advanced laboratories and a modern meteorological station. Students cooperate with local institutions in applied projects that serve the community.
- Location: Mansoura, Egypt
- Educational degrees: Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
- Average fees: 4000-5500 Egyptian pounds annually for Egyptians
- The top 5 majors: meteorology, physics, chemistry, environmental sciences, and mathematics
- Language of study: Arabic and English
- Conditions: Obtaining high school diploma (science) with a grade of no less than 82%.
Conditions for studying meteorology in Egypt for foreign students
The conditions for studying meteorology for foreign students differ slightly from the conditions applied to Egyptian students. Egyptian universities seek to attract international students while maintaining high academic standards. General conditions for foreign students wishing to study meteorology in Egypt include the following:
- Obtaining a high school diploma or its equivalent from the student’s country, with a focus on scientific subjects (especially physics and mathematics).
- Achieving a high academic average in the secondary school certificate (the minimum required varies depending on the university, but is usually not less than 70-80%).
- Proficiency in the English language, with an acceptable TOEFL or IELTS certificate (requirements vary depending on the university).
- In some cases, a student may be required to pass a college or university entrance exam.
- Submit all required documents certified and approved by the Egyptian Embassy in the student’s country.
- Obtaining a valid study visa to study in Egypt.
- Passing the medical examination required to study in Egypt.
- Pay tuition fees in foreign currency (usually higher than Egyptian student fees).
- Some universities may request letters of recommendation from former professors or a personal (online) interview.
- In the case of postgraduate studies, the student may be required to submit a research proposal or pass additional examinations.
University housing options
Cairo University
- The university provides a university city for male and female students
- University City is located within the university campus in Giza
- Shared rooms (2-4 students) and limited single rooms are available
- Services include restaurants, gyms, and libraries
- Fees vary according to room type, and are less expensive for Egyptian students
Alexandria University
- The university owns several university cities in different areas of Alexandria
- Accommodation is available for male and female students separately
- Room options include shared and single rooms
- University cities provide accommodation services and student activities
- Accommodation prices are relatively reasonable compared to private accommodation
Ain-Shams University
- There is a university city for male students and another for female students
- The university cities are located in the Abbasiya district of Cairo
- Shared rooms are available at reasonable prices for Egyptian students
- Additional services such as libraries and dining halls are available
- There are a limited number of rooms designated for foreign students
Al Azhar university
- The university provides separate housing for male and female students
- University cities are available in Cairo and some other governorates
- Accommodation is free or at a nominal cost for Egyptian expatriate students
- Accommodation and health care services are available within university cities
- There is special housing for international students with special conditions and fees
Helwan University
- The university owns a university city in the Ain Helwan area
- It provides accommodation for male and female students in separate buildings
- Shared rooms and some limited single rooms are available
- Services include sports facilities, restaurants and medical centres
- Fees are relatively moderate, with support for students in need
Mansoura University
- There is a large university town within the campus
- It provides separate accommodation for male and female students
- Rooms vary between shared and single
- Integrated services such as libraries and sports fields are available
- Accommodation prices are suitable for Egyptian students, with special fees for foreigners
General Notes:
- Priority in university housing is usually given to expatriate and foreign students.
- Fees and services vary between universities and may change from year to year.
- Students are advised to contact the University Cities Administration directly to obtain the latest information and prices.
- There may be private off-campus housing options for students who prefer this.
Professional opportunities after graduating from studying meteorology in Egypt
Studying meteorology in Egypt offers a variety of career opportunities for graduates. During their studies, students acquire valuable analytical and technical skills that qualify them to work in multiple fields. These opportunities range from working in government institutions and the private sector, in addition to opportunities in the field of scientific research and education.
- Working at the General Meteorological Authority
- Jobs in airports and airlines
- Opportunities in the agriculture sector and water resources management
- Working in the field of renewable energy
- Jobs in the media as weather forecasters
- Opportunities in the field of scientific and academic research
- Working in insurance companies and assessing risks
- Jobs in the tourism and hotel sector
- Opportunities in the field of environmental consulting
- Working in international organizations concerned with climate and environment
General Authority of Meteorology:
- Working as a meteorologist or weather forecaster
- Participate in preparing daily weather bulletins
- Analyzing climate data and preparing reports
Aviation sector:
- Providing meteorological information to pilots
- Contribute to planning flight routes
- Analyze weather conditions to ensure flight safety
Agriculture and water resources management:
- Provide weather forecasts to farmers
- Assisting in planning planting and irrigation dates
- Study the impact of climate changes on crops
Renewable energy sector:
- Analyze weather conditions to improve solar panel efficiency
- Study wind patterns to determine locations for wind farms
- Evaluating the impact of weather conditions on renewable energy production
Media:
- Working as a weather forecaster on television channels
- Preparing weather reports for newspapers and websites
- Providing aerial consultations for radio programs
Scientific and academic research:
- Conducting research in the field of climate change
- Teaching meteorological sciences in universities
- Developing weather and climate forecasting models
Insurance companies:
- Assess risks associated with weather phenomena
- Assistance in pricing natural disaster insurance policies
- Analyze climate data to estimate potential losses
Tourism sector:
- Providing weather forecasts for tourist resorts
- Assistance in planning tourist seasons
- Providing air consultations to tour operators
Environmental consulting:
- Environmental impact assessment of industrial projects
- Study the impact of climate change on ecosystems
- Providing solutions to reduce air pollution
International organizations:
- Working in United Nations climate programs
- Participation in international cooperation projects to combat climate change
- Representing Egypt in international conferences and events related to meteorology
These career opportunities reflect the importance of meteorology and its diverse applications in various sectors, making this major attractive to students who want a diverse and impactful career path.
Internal training courses for meteorology specialization for Egyptian students
Egyptian students majoring in meteorology have a variety of internal and external training opportunities. These courses help enhance practical skills and expand horizons of knowledge in this vital field.
Meteorology specialty at the General Authority of Meteorology:
- Summer internship program for undergraduate students
- Training duration: 4-8 weeks
- Includes: working at monitoring stations, data analysis, and weather forecasting
Meteorology specialty at the Regional Center for Meteorological Training (Cairo):
- Specialized courses in the use of modern monitoring tools
- Workshops in weather and climate modeling
- Duration of courses: ranging from a week to a month
Meteorology specialty at Cairo University - Faculty of Science:
- Practical training in the meteorological laboratory
- Field visits to monitoring stations
- Duration of training: one full semester
Meteorology specialty at the Arab Organization for Industrialization:
- Courses in maintenance and operation of weather monitoring devices
- Training on climate data analysis software
- Training duration: 2-4 weeks
Meteorology specialty at the Egyptian Ministry of Environment:
- Training program on air quality monitoring
- Courses in assessing the environmental impact of climate change
- Training duration: 3-6 weeks
Courses for studying meteorology in Egypt externally
Meteorology specialty at the World Meteorological Organization (WMO):
- An international training program for outstanding students
- Includes visits to international meteorological centers
- Program duration: 2-3 months
Meteorology specialty at the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF):
- Advanced courses in digital weather modeling
- Opportunities to participate in international research projects
- Training duration: 1-3 months
Meteorology Specialization at NASA - DEVELOP Program:
- Training on the use of satellite data in meteorology
- Applied projects in the field of remote sensing
- Program duration: 10 weeks
Meteorology Specialization at the International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI) - Columbia University:
- Courses in analyzing climate data and its effects on society
- Workshops on forecasting extreme weather events
- Training duration: 4-8 weeks
Meteorology Specialization at the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC):
- A training program for students interested in climate change studies
- Participate in preparing global assessment reports
- Program duration: 3-6 months
Important Notes
- Most externship programs require English language proficiency.
- There may be scholarships available to cover the costs of some external programmes.
- Students are advised to contact the meteorology departments at their universities for information about available internship opportunities.
- Some programs may require recommendations from professors or an outstanding academic record.
- Students can also search for internship opportunities in private sector companies working in meteorology-related fields.
Meteorology study courses in Egypt provide Egyptian students with valuable opportunities to gain practical experience and build a professional network, which enhances their chances in the job market after graduation.