Why did you want to study in this Master's programme? What sparked your interest in the field?
Lauri: Both climate and geography have been my interests since childhood. I primarily was interested in studying geography, but then I noticed that there is something called atmospheric sciences and under it there's biosphere and atmosphere cycling, which combines geography with climate.
Suman: I'm from Nepal and I've seen the snow in the mountains melting quite fast. The capital of my country suffers from very poor air quality. Those experiences got me interested in air pollution and climate science. In Finland, I looked for a programme where I could study aerosol physics and air pollution more deeply, and this programme at the University of Helsinki looked very promising.
Who is the programme suitable for?
Suman: I think it suits almost everyone because it's so versatile – you can focus on research, field measurements, data analysis, or programming.
Lauri: It's a great opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of climate beyond what is commonly talked about. It also challenges you to appreciate how subtle, seemingly mundane things – like the structure of a leaf – can matter enormously at a larger scale.
Can you give examples of what the courses are about?
Suman: I'm following the aerosol physics major, so I've taken courses on aerosol theory, laboratory measurement of aerosols, and in addition courses on programming, and data analysis. There are also courses on the atmospheric boundary layer and meteorology. And you're not limited to courses within your field. For example, I've taken Finnish language courses.
Lauri: I have courses both here at Kumpula and at the Viikki Campus. The Kumpula courses focus broadly on the atmosphere and Earth systems, while the ones at Viikki go deeper into forests and soils. Together they paint a picture of how everything is slowly circulating – I find it quite beautiful.
What are the studies like in practice?
Lauri: There are courses lasting one or two periods, mostly theory-based, but also intensive courses with a lot of practical fieldwork, which are a nice complementary to the theory.
Suman: The courses here are well-paced and you have enough time to engage properly with the material. Most assignments are group-based and focus on discussion. You're often working with real-time data and real-world issues. Written exams are rare. The workload is fairly even throughout the study period.
What about the master's thesis – what kind of support is offered for writing it?
Suman: I'm currently writing my thesis on separating traffic-related ultrafine particles from regionally formed ones in Helsinki streets, using a statistical approach. You work fairly independently, updating your supervisor regularly, and if you get stuck, you get guidance. What I've found especially valuable is the peer group clinic where students meet. It's a space to discuss challenges you face. You also get to present your work to an audience and receive feedback.
Lauri: I finished my thesis recently – it was about a year-long process. My topic was a bit unconventional: nudging waste recycling behaviour. I got to participate in a joint project between the university and public sector organisations. Later, I also explored the entrepreneurial potential of my thesis findings through
What would you like to do after graduation?
Suman: My goal is to do a PhD in this field. In the long run, I want to contribute to climate and air pollution policy-making, especially in South Asian countries where these issues are critical and better policy is urgently needed.
Lauri: I'm keeping my options open. A PhD interests me, as does working abroad. I'd also like to develop my entrepreneurship idea around nudging recycling behaviour.
What is it like to study in Helsinki?
Suman: It's quite peaceful, and a great learning environment. At the university, you take courses alongside people from very different backgrounds, and there's always something happening. Student organisations are quite active here, too. There are libraries with good facilities all around the city, plenty of student community events to participate in, and practical perks like student meal discounts and housing benefits. Public transportation is also very accessible.
Lauri: I find the atmosphere genuinely curious and open. It's easy to ask questions during lectures, and the relationship between students and staff feels approachable. You can really bond with fellow students here. I've also made good use of the Unisport sports centre, the annual ticket is very affordable.
What would you like to say to someone considering applying to this programme?
Suman: This is one of the best places in the world to study atmospheric and climate science – not only because of the quality of research and facilities, but because of the culture. People here, students and faculty alike, genuinely care about climate change. The research environment is collaborative: groups and departments exchange ideas freely, and you learn from each other constantly.
Lauri: If you want to contribute to better-informed decision-making on environmental issues, this programme gives you the knowledge and tools to do that. Uncertainty is one of the big barriers to making more environmentally friendly decisions, and this programme helps reduce that.
Has there been a breakthrough or a moment when something clicked for you?
Lauri: I think it happened gradually. When I first arrived, I kept wondering why we were measuring such specific, seemingly small things – VOCs, aerosols, individual data points. But over time, it built into a bigger picture, and I started to understand why all of it matters.
Suman: For me, a significant moment was when I got to present my thesis work at the ACCC climate conference. It was my first time giving an oral presentation to a large scientific audience. I also got to introduce the topic of climate change impacts on the Himalayas to an audience that wasn't very familiar with it. Being able to bring attention to an issue I care deeply about felt genuinely meaningful.