The program aims to prepare a new generation of researchers who will be able to apply relevant methods, databases, and software for observational and/or theoretical research on Earth’s atmosphere and near space in research and practical activities. They will work with contemporary equipment, including that used in international global research networks for ongoing climate change and space weather development research. Program graduates will be competitive both in the job market and at subsequent educational levels.
Degree awarded: Master of Science in Atmospheric Sciences
In case of a double degree award, the following degrees are also possible:
Language of instruction: English
Program duration: 120 ECTS credits, 4 semesters
The program implementation involves highly qualified academic staff who are also leading scientists in atmospheric-ionospheric and near-space sciences with high citation indices and extensive research and practical experience.
Students acquire comprehensive theoretical and experimental knowledge covering planetary atmosphere structures in the solar system and the processes within them. The curriculum includes essential approaches and principles for Earth-based research utilizing contemporary satellite networks and global collaborations. Depending on the research objectives and selected methods, program graduates will be able to use and optimize global circulation models of Earth's atmosphere. They will also effectively conduct relevant theoretical and/or observational research in atmospheric sciences by selecting and using appropriate contemporary methods, approaches, and theoretical models.
The involvement of the INMAS (International Master in Atmospheric Sciences) consortium in the program development and evaluation process ensured the educational program was developed according to international standards.
The academic staff involved in the program represents leading research institutes and centers in Georgia; they also have connections with universities and research centers in Europe and the USA (University of Göttingen, University of Leuven, University of Graz, Ohio University, as well as the German Aerospace Center (DLR), International Centre for Theoretical Physics Trieste), which allows students to participate in scientific projects and conduct research in highly productive research teams. Professors involved in program implementation are members of SCOSTEP (Scientific Committee for Solar-Terrestrial Physics). Program staff considers experience gained at research and academic institutions in Europe and the USA.
Students will have the opportunity to participate in practical and research programs at European universities, thereby gaining competitive advantages in the international market. In 2022, Ilia State University signed a tripartite agreement with the following universities: Université Clermont Auvergne (France) and Johannes Gutenberg Universität Mainz (Germany). The tripartite agreement regulates student exchange mechanisms and the possibility of awarding a second degree upon completion of the exchange track.
Associate Professor Goderdzi Didebulidze
Associate Professor Maia Todua
Program graduates can be employed in:
Program graduates can continue their studies at the doctoral level.
Applicants for the program must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent academic qualification in one of the following fields:
Admission to the master’s program is conducted in three stages:
Program admission requirements include English language proficiency at the CEFR B2 level or higher. Upon demonstrating English language competency, applicants are entitled to take the oral examination. The oral examination evaluation process emphasizes the applicant’s motivation, communication skills, and foundational disciplinary knowledge required for program completion.
Students must accumulate 120 credits:
In case of participation in exchange programs with international partners:
The standard master’s program study period is 4 semesters (2 years) – 30 ECTS credits per semester and 120 ECTS credits total. Student participation in a two-semester exchange program from one university to another (= 1 academic year) is considered equivalent to two full semesters, i.e., 60 ECTS. Additional credits can be obtained at a third university. However, the requirement is a minimum of 60 ECTS equivalent at the “home” and one “host” university for awarding corresponding qualifications at both universities.
Program Academic Staff