The doctor of philosophy degree is a research-oriented degree awarded upon the demonstration of scholarly competence. To obtain the Ph.D. degree in atmospheric science, each student must satisfy all requirements of the School of Graduate School as well as those of the Atmospheric Science Program. Students who complete their M.S. at The University of Alabama in Huntsville must pick a thesis or a non thesis option; complete all requirements for a M.S. before they are formally admitted to the PhD program. Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science – Policies