College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Overview

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (Cornell CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University's second largest population of students, faculty and staff. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; sustainable food, energy and environmental resources; and social, physical and economic well-being.

Since our founding, we have evolved continuously to meet the changing needs of our world. Our top-ranked programs include more than 20 majors and nearly 40 minors across our areas of science.

We aim to leave the world better than we found it, so we seek out those not simply driven to master their discipline, but who are also passionate about doing so to serve the public good. CALS is fundamentally invested in improving the lives of people, their environments and their communities both in New York state and around the world.

The Cornell CALS experience empowers us to explore the boundaries of knowledge, supported by the leading minds of today and surrounded by the leading minds of tomorrow.

Website: cals.cornell.edu

General Information

Administration

  • Benjamin Z. Houlton, Ronald P. Lynch Dean
  • Lori Leonard, Senior Associate Dean
  • Corrie Moreau, Senior Associate Dean
  • Anne Brandt, Assistant Dean
  • Sharon Detzer, Associate Dean
  • Sarah Giroux, Associate Dean
  • Ann LaFave, Assistant Dean
  • Xingen Lei, Associate Dean
  • Peter Paradise, Associate Dean
  • Chris Smart, Associate Dean
  • Margaret Smith, Associate Dean
  • Julie Suarez, Associate Dean
  • Andrew Turner, Associate Dean
  • Andy Vail, Associate Dean

Office of Academic Programs

The Office of Academic Programs is a unit within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) encompassing the Office of Admissions, the Office of Student Services, the Office of Curriculum Development and Instructional Support (OCDIS), and the Office of Professional Programs and Extended Learning (OPPEL). These offices collaborate on recruitment, enrollment, degree attainment, career development and academic support for all CALS Undergraduate and Professional Masters Students. The office also oversees the curricular and compliance efforts across the college.

Office of Student Services

The Office of Student Services collaborates with CALS students to help define and navigate their undergraduate journey, offering a centralized hub of resources that unlock transformative opportunities aligned with their academic goals. Students receive comprehensive guidance and support across various areas, including academic advising, resource navigation, degree tracking, career planning, experiential learning (such as research, internships, and international programs), skill development, graduate school preparation, and job search strategies. Students can access Student Services staff, support, and resources at 140 Roberts Hall and in the CALS Zone (112 Mann Library).

Office of Curriculum Development and Instructional Support

The OCDIS advances strategic curricular development throughout the college. The Director of this office provides guidance and implementation for pedagogical advancements, builds developmental resources to faculty, and launches new academic initiatives across the college. This office also supports shifts in coursework and the formation of new degrees.

Undergraduate Admissions Office

Each year, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) Undergraduate Admissions Office is responsible for admitting and enrolling a talented, capable, and compelling class of students from a broad range of backgrounds and perspectives. The admissions work meets college and institutional enrollment goals, while both reflecting and supporting the college mission. This includes first-year, transfer, and internal transfer admissions processes. The office engages in various forms of in-person and virtual outreach to prospective students and their families, evaluates and makes decisions on more than 7,000 applications each year, and coordinates events for admitted students. The Admissions Office staff also advises and supports the CALS Ambassadors program.

The office is located in 177 Roberts Hall. Staff members include Heather Marcotte, Erin Treat, Anna Cummings, Jenn King and Callan Robinson. The staff can be contacted via email at cals_admissions@cornell.edu or phone at (607) 255-2036.

Undergraduate Admissions

In CALS, students apply to one of 20+ majors and are selected based on academic preparation and demonstrated fit for Cornell CALS and their chosen major. A significant factor taken into consideration by the admissions committee is how well a student's academic interests relate to the mission of the college. Majors fall within the life, agricultural, environmental, and social sciences.

Enrollment

Undergraduate enrollment is approximately 3,100. Annually 750 students graduate, while new student enrollment consists of approximately 600 first year and 200 transfer students. College faculty members serve as chairs of the Special Committees of approximately 1,100 graduate students.

Transfer Admissions

A student who has earned 12 or more credits at another accredited college or university since graduating from high school is eligible to apply to CALS as a transfer applicant. Approximately 30 percent of CALS undergraduates are transfer students who have completed part of their collegiate work at other institutions, including community colleges. Detailed information is available on the CALS Transfer Admissions webpage.

All accepted transfer credit must be from an accredited college or university. A maximum of 60 non-Cornell credits may be transferred. Transfer credit is awarded based on review of official transcripts. Additional course information may be required to determine transfer eligibility.

Internal Transfer

A degree-seeking Cornell student in good standing may apply for Internal Transfer to CALS, to pursue a major and degree that is not available in their current Cornell college/school. Eligibility guidelines, academic requirements by major, application timelines and the process for applying are detailed on the CALS Internal Transfer webpage.

The process requires each student to meet with the Advising Contact in their desired CALS major, prior to applying, to ensure that the student fully understands the major requirements, along with how to complete the required courses within the timeline of their expected date of graduation. Following the meeting, the Advising Contact provides feedback to the CALS Admissions committee regarding the student's candidacy. Additionally, the student must submit the Internal Transfer application, which includes a personal statement and resume.

Students who are well-positioned for Internal Transfer are those who seek to enter CALS as rising sophomores, mid-semester sophomores or rising juniors. The strongest candidates have met the academic requirements by major, are supported by the Advising Contact in their desired major, and are able to communicate, through their personal statement and resume, why pursuing their desired major within CALS is the best fit for them at Cornell.

Visiting Students

A limited number of non-degree candidates who want to take courses in the college are admitted each year as Visiting Students. Applicants should complete the Transfer Common Application, including the Cornell Supplement to indicate the special/visiting student intentions and coursework.

Off-Campus Students

Courses that Cornell students participate in that are approved credit-bearing programs off Ithaca's campus during the fall or spring semester will count towards the number of credits that can be brought in from an external institution. For a list of programs and more information, please refer to Special Academic Options.

Departments

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences offers more than 20 undergraduate majors and nearly 40 minors, many of which are cross-departmental to take advantage of the knowledge experience and expertise of the faculty from several disciplines. Faculty identify a sequence of courses that constitute the requirements for each major.  In addition, all students must meet the minimum distribution requirements of the college. Courses of study are designed to provide systematic development of basic skills and concepts as well as critical thinking. Many majors provide the opportunity for students to concentrate in a particular focal area.

Our curriculum flexes to align with student's individual interests and ambitions. We encourage students to experiment and make connections across the life, agricultural, environmental and social sciences that are at the core of the CALS experience.

Departments / Division / Schools

The links below will take you to the departmental websites for each area.

Additional Course Offering Areas:

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Agriculture and Life Sciences (ALS) courses are not associated with any departments, other than instructors from departments or the Center for Teaching Innovation. These courses have broad interest among students across the college.

Special Academic Opportunities

Early Enrollment Pathway

Outstanding undergraduate students may be admitted for professional study in the College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell Law School, or the SC Johnson College of Business before completion of their undergraduate program. To be considered, a student must:

  • Fulfill all University Graduation requirements. 
  • Fulfill all college requirements. 
  • Fulfill all major(s) requirements. 
  • Complete a minimum of 108 of their 120 academic credits toward the Bachelor of Science before the start of the senior year and have been accepted by one of the above-named professional schools.
  • No more than 121 academic credits from the student's first semester in the pathway will be applied toward general elective requirements to reach the 120 credits required to complete the CALS Bachelor of Science degree.
    • The 12 credits from the Professional Pathway will count toward the maximum of 60 transfer credits allowed toward the undergraduate degree.
  • Once 120 credits have been reached, students will have met all undergraduate degree requirements and their bachelor's degree will be conferred on the next degree date.
  • Students considering applying are required to confirm eligibility with the pre-law or pre-vet advisor and an advisor in CALS Office of Student Services, located in 140 Roberts Hall early in their sophomore year to discuss eligibility and application requirements. 
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The 12 credits from the Professional Pathway will count toward the maximum of 60 transfer credits allowed toward the undergraduate degree.

Opportunities in Research

Undergraduate Research

Students at the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences are exposed to a wide variety of learning experiences. One of the best ways for a student to gain knowledge beyond the textbook is to engage in original research.

Many opportunities for research exist across the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the University.

Students may be able to work on a faculty member's research project for pay. Opportunities can be identified by contacting individual faculty members or departmental offices. A second option is for students to receive credit through a 4990-level course within a department by conducting their own research project under a faculty mentor. Hundreds of students each year conduct research for credit.

Juniors and seniors usually have the course background to engage in research, but first-year students and sophomores also may be qualified to do some types of research. Off-campus research experiences are also available for pay or as internships.

Research Honors Program

The Research Honors Program provides students with a special opportunity to work with a faculty mentor to experience the research process. The Bachelor of Science degree with "distinction in research" is conferred upon those students who, in addition to having completed the requirements for the B.S. degree, have satisfactorily completed the honors program and have been recommended for the degree by the honors committee.

Research may be done in these program areas: animal sciences, biological sciences, biology & society, communication, entomology, environment and sustainability, information science, landscape studies, nutritional sciences, physical sciences, plant sciences, and social sciences. Students in any CALS major may be eligible to participate in most of these program areas. Each program area has its own requirements in addition to the college requirements. After reviewing the requirements of each program area (below), students' questions may be directed toward the appropriate program area chair.

Visit Undergraduate Research Opportunities for information about identifying a research topic, conferring with a faculty member, and undergraduate funding opportunities.

Research Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to:

  • Identify a question or topic requiring original research through critical examination of existing literature
  • Formulate the question into one or more testable hypotheses or central arguments and develop methods suitable to evaluate these hypotheses or arguments
  • Obtain information relevant to the hypotheses or arguments through effective use of contemporary methods and research techniques
  • Critically analyze the evidence obtained to refute or support the hypotheses or arguments
  • Integrate the findings of this research to the findings of others and to larger issues in the discipline
  • Communicate effectively through writing the thesis and oral or poster presentations

Honors Degree Requirements

Application Requirements and Procedures

An undergraduate wishing to enroll in the honors program must have completed a minimum of 55 credits, at least 30 while at Cornell. Additionally, the student must have a cumulative Cornell GPA of 3.0 or higher at the time of entry and at the completion of the program, unless otherwise noted by a particular program.

Interested students should make arrangements and discuss research ideas with a faculty member by the second semester of their junior year. Students must submit an application and thesis proposal to the appropriate office in accordance with their program area procedures and deadlines. Knowing the deadlines and submission procedures for a particular program area is the student's responsibility.

Applications
  • Applications for Biological Sciences students are available in the Office of Undergraduate Biology, 216 Stimson Hall.
  • Applications for Biology and Society students are available at 303 Morrill Hall.
  • Applications for Communication students are available online.
  • Students of all other programs should apply via the Cornell Experience CALS Research Honors Program website.

The CALS Research Honors Program Committee meets in the fall to give final approval of all qualified applicants, officially enrolling them in the honors program. Additional requirements for application and completion of the honors program are specified by each program area.

Honors Degree Requirements

Students enrolled in the honors program may earn credits for their research by enrolling in an independent research course (this course is not a requirement in all program areas). Funding opportunities are also available.

Students are required to present their research in the form of an oral presentation or poster session. Some departments have a seminar series during which honors presentations may be given; the Cornell Undergraduate Research Board (CURB) Forum is another possible venue for presentations. Students should discuss presentation options with their faculty mentors.

In addition to a presentation, successful completion of the honors program requires a research report, written in the style of a master's thesis or scholarly journal article. Students may volunteer to publish their original honors research at eCommons Cornell University Library, as long as doing so does not interfere with other plans, such as patenting or publishing in a professional journal. A permission form to allow a thesis to be made available online at Mann Library can be obtained from the honors committee chair. Thesis examples are available on the web; each program area chair may also be able to provide relevant examples.

Students in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences wishing to participate in the Research Honors Program are not eligible for "distinction in research" by participating in a program offered by another Cornell college or administrative unit.

The research honors committee for each program area then recommends to the college registrar those students who qualify for honors. Only those who maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 and complete all of their honor requirements will be graduated with "distinction in research."

More information is available on the CALS Research Honors Program website.

Honors Program Areas

Below are listed the CALS research honors program areas and their specific area requirements and deadlines. For more information is available on CALS Research Honors Program Areas.

Animal Sciences

The objective of the animal sciences research honors program is to provide outstanding undergraduates with the opportunity to pursue supervised independent research and to develop an awareness of the scientific process. It is expected that the research will require significant effort and creative input by the student in its design and execution and in the reporting of the results.

Those students with majors in animal sciences who are interested in doing a research project should consult with their faculty advisors by their junior year. All students are expected to meet the college requirements in qualifying for the program and to complete the following:

  • Identify a potential research honors project sponsor (i.e., a faculty member at Cornell working in the animal sciences) and secure that faculty member's commitment to sponsor the student in a research project. This should be accomplished by the second semester of the junior year or earlier. Students are encouraged to implement some research during the junior year and/or summer before the senior year.
  • Enroll in the Honors Program using the CALS application form within the first 6 weeks of the fall semester, senior year.
  • Register for ANSC 4990 Undergraduate Research in Animal Science if students wish to obtain course credit for their research.
  • Participate in ANSC 4020 Seminar in Animal Sciences during the spring semester of the senior year and report on and discuss the project and results.
  • Submit a written thesis to the Animal Sciences Research Honors Committee by the scheduled deadline (mid-April for May graduates). Specific information regarding deadlines, format, and organization for the thesis will be provided.
  • Meet with the Animal Sciences Research Honors Committee for a short oral defense of the thesis following a review of the thesis by the student's mentor and the research committee.
  • Submit to the honors committee chair an electronic copy of the final approved thesis (in pdf or Word format).
  • Students may volunteer to publish their original honors research at eCommons Cornell University Library, as long as doing so does not interfere with other plans, such as patenting or publishing in a professional journal. A permission form to allow a thesis to be made available online at Mann Library can be obtained from the honors committee chair.
  • Each year, in recognition of student honors research achievements, CALS prints a booklet of honors theses abstracts (CALS Research Honors Abstracts). Students are responsible for submitting their formatted abstracts in accordance with abstract publication instructions.

Details pertaining to the specific requirements of the program can be obtained from Dr. Quirk, Department of Animal Science, 434 Morrison Hall, vs88@cornell.edu.

Biological Sciences

Students interested in the Research Honors Program in the Biological Sciences should consult with their academic advisors and with potential faculty research mentors early in their junior year. See the Biological Sciences Website for complete details. If you have additional questions related to research, applications, and program requirements, contact biohonors@cornell.edu or the Office of Undergraduate Biology, 216 Stimson Hall.

Biology & Society

The Research Honors Program in Biology & Society is designed to provide independent research opportunities for academically talented undergraduate students in Biology & Society. Students who enroll in this program are expected, with faculty guidance, to do independent study and research dealing with issues in biology and society. Students participating in the program should find the experience intellectually stimulating and rewarding whether or not they intend to pursue a research career.

Biology & Society students are considered for entry into the research honors program at the end of the second semester of the junior year. Application forms for the program are available on the Biology & Society website, at our office- 303 Morrill Hall, or by contacting bsoc@cornell.edu. To qualify for the Biology & Society Research Honors Program, a student must have an overall Cornell cumulative GPA of at least 3.3, have formulated a research topic, and have found a project supervisor (with a Cornell academic appointment) and another faculty member willing to serve as their project advisor. At least one of these must be a member of the Biology & Society major. Applications will be reviewed by a committee headed by the director of undergraduate studies, who will notify students directly of the outcome. Students will be permitted to register for the honors program only by permission of the department. Students must enroll for both the fall and spring semesters. They must attend the honors seminar during the fall semester. More information on the honors program is available in the Biology & Society office, 303 Morrill.

Important Deadlines. Note: If the following dates fall on a weekend, the deadline is the preceding Friday.

  • Last week of second semester of the junior year: Application for honors program submitted to 303 Morrill Hall.
  • First Monday after Labor Day: a 1000- word thesis proposal with preliminary bibliography submitted to first reader.
  • End of first semester: students meet with first reader to decide whether to move forward.
  • March 7: First draft submitted to thesis advisor.
  • April 8-15: Thesis completed in a form satisfactory for evaluation and submitted to the three readers.
  • April 29-May 10: Thesis defense accomplished.
  • May 13: One bound copy of completed and defended thesis submitted to the Undergraduate Coordinator in 303 Morrill Hall.

Students may volunteer to publish their original honors research at eCommons Cornell University Library, as long as doing so does not interfere with other plans, such as patenting or publishing in a professional journal. A permission form to allow a thesis to be made available online at Mann Library can be obtained from the honors committee chair.

Each year, in recognition of student honors research achievements, CALS prints a booklet of honors theses abstracts (CALS Research Honors Abstracts). Students are responsible for submitting their formatted abstracts in accordance with abstract publication instructions.

Communication

The research honors program in communication offers outstanding undergraduate students the opportunity to work with a member of the communication faculty to pursue supervised independent research in the areas of media, technology, science, environment, health, persuasion, social influence, collaboration, intercultural communication, and other communication topics. The subject matter and nature of the research experience may be quite varied. Students participating should find the experience intellectually stimulating and rewarding, whether or not they intend to pursue a research career. It is expected that the research will require significant effort by the student in its design and execution, and in reporting of the results. The Bachelor of Science degree with "distinction in research" is conferred to students who successfully complete an honors thesis in communication.

The guidance and supervision of a faculty member with substantial interest and expertise is essential to the success of the research honors project. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with faculty during their junior year in order to identify someone to serve as their honors thesis advisor. Honors thesis faculty advisors must be members of the graduate field of communication. Students should enroll in COMM 4990 Independent Research their senior year to receive course credit for their honors research work.

Timeline

For Spring Graduates:

  • Junior year: contact communication faculty to talk about research ideas and identify thesis advisor.
  • The proposal is due the 4th Thursday of the fall semester.
  • The thesis is due the 2nd Friday of April in the spring semester.

For Fall Graduates:

  • Junior year: contact communication faculty to talk about research ideas and identify thesis advisor.
  • The proposal is due the 4th Thursday of the spring semester.
  • The thesis is due the 2nd Friday of November in the fall semester.
Thesis Proposals

Students should work closely with their honors thesis advisor in developing their thesis proposals. The purpose of the proposal is twofold. First, it formalizes a plan of study and establishes a set of expectations between the student and the faculty advisor. Second, the Communication Undergraduate Curriculum Committee will facilitate a formal review of the proposal to determine whether it is consistent with honors thesis requirements and, in some cases, to make suggestions for improvement.

The proposal should be 5 to 10 typed, double-spaced pages and include the following:

  1. Research Topic: State the problem to be studied or the topic of interest. Review the basic literature and the background of the problem or topic; include a more extensive bibliography to be consulted.
  2. Research Questions/Empirical Hypotheses: Specify the proposed questions to be answered or hypotheses to be tested empirically via collection of data and a mode of analysis accepted in the field of communication research.
  3. Research Methods: Discuss the models to be constructed (if any), sampling procedures, data collection procedures (including measurement instruments and survey or experimental designs, if appropriate), and proposed methods of analysis.
  4. Expected Significance: State what new knowledge or information is likely to be forthcoming and why it is important. State any practical applications expected as a result of the research.
  5. References
Thesis

After the April/November deadline, the thesis will be independently reviewed typically by two faculty committee members within about two weeks. If further revisions are required, students will be informed and a revised draft will be requested. Students who successfully complete a communication honors theses are often invited to present their research to the communication department in late April - early May or late November - early December.

We also recommend students consult the following resource as they prepare their thesis drafts:

Application Submission

All proposals and theses should be uploaded and submitted to the Communication Undergraduate Program Coordinator through this online form.

Entomology

The Program: A research honors program in Entomology may be pursued by any student in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences who meets the qualifications below. The student does not need to be majoring in Entomology. Because insects are so biodiverse, abundant, ecologically important, and used as model organisms at multiple levels of analysis, they are ideal subjects for honors study. Entomology's diverse faculty interests and extensive collections are major assets if a student selects entomology as the area for research honors study.

Though research experiences are available to all undergraduate students (see links below for academic credit options), the Research Honors program is designed to capture the full range of the scientific process, from selecting a research question, designing a study to test hypotheses (often through experimentation), analysis of data collected, writing and revising a thesis, and public presentation of the results.

Qualifications: An undergraduate intending to enroll in the Entomology Research Honors Program must be matriculated in CALS, and have completed a minimum of 55 credits, at least 30 while at Cornell. Additionally, the student must have a cumulative Cornell GPA of 3.0 or higher at time of entry to the program.

Research honors students have the option of earning academic credit by enrolling in ENTOM 4970 Individual Study in Entomology or ENTOM 4990 Undergraduate Research in Entomology during any semester while working toward a research honors thesis. Credits and grade option for satisfying requirements of the course should be discussed with the thesis advisor (below).

Note: Enrolling in an independent study course, either ENTOM 4970 Individual Study in Entomology or ENTOM 4990 Undergraduate Research in Entomology, is not a requirement for participating in the Research Honors Program in Entomology. Upon completion of the requirements and acceptance of the thesis, the student’s diploma will state "with distinction in research."

Sequence of Requirements: The Entomology Research Honors Committee requires that an undergraduate student interested in embarking on a research honors project should proceed with the following steps:

  1. Discuss the possibility of a potential honors project with your academic advisor or potential research supervisor, preferably no later than your junior year. This timing makes it possible to carefully plan a research project and implement some research during the junior year and/or summer before the senior year, especially if field work is involved.
  2. No later than the end of your junior year, preferably, you should select an appropriate faculty member who can serve as an honors project supervisor to oversee your research project. The research supervisor need not be your academic advisor, but should be someone whose area of expertise best suits your interests and who wants to work with you. Typically, but not necessarily, they will be in the Department of Entomology.
  3. Discuss and develop a project with your honors project supervisor, ultimately resulting in a brief written plan. The plan should include a statement of objectives or hypotheses, proposed methods for testing the hypotheses, along with needs for laboratory or field space or shared equipment.
  4. No later than the end of the second week of the first semester of your senior year, submit a completed application and proposal approved by your supervisor. Applications are available online. Also submit a PDF version to the Chair of the Entomology Research Honors Committee. Earlier submission is strongly encouraged.
  5. Talk to your project supervisor about sources of funding for undergraduate research that are available through CALS and Arts early in the fall.  your chances of getting funding will be better if your project is further along.
  6. Provide two updates on your progress to the chair of the entomology research honors committee in your last semester. In the second week of the semester, submit a brief progress report to confirm that you have made progress and expect to complete the honors thesis by the end of the semester.
  7. By 10th of April of your last semester, you should write a brief (1-paragraph) summary of your research and statement that your project will be completed by the deadline.  the statement should be approved and signed by your project supervisor and forwarded to the honors chair.
  8. Draft(s) of your thesis should be reviewed by your supervisor, revised, and polished well before the submission deadline during the final months prior to graduation.
  9. Submit a polished and revised digital copy in word of the final honors thesis (as approved by the honors project supervisor, with signature) to the chair of the entomology research honors committee no later than four weeks before the last day of classes in the semester in which the student anticipates graduation. the thesis will be reviewed by the chair of the honors committee and at least one other referee selected by the chair.
  10. Reviewed theses will be returned to the student usually at least one week before the last day of classes. If reviewers indicate that changes must be made, the revised thesis should be submitted to the Entomology Research Honors Committee Chair no later than the last day of the study break before final exams begin. Referees should include a recommendation to the Entomology Research Honors Committee Chair regarding acceptability of the thesis for honors recognition.
  11. Present a formal seminar reporting the significant findings of your research to the Department of Entomology in the Undergraduate Research Symposium at the end of the semester of your senior year. The Chair of the Research Honors Committee will provide details on the date, time, duration of your presentation, etc.
  12. Students may volunteer to electronically submit their final approved thesis (in pdf or Word format) for Mann Library. Mann Library has given CALS the opportunity to have the theses available to the public electronically if this does not interfere with other plans, such as patenting or publishing in another journal. A permission form to allow the thesis to be made available online at Mann Library can be obtained from the honors committee chair.  The thesis should be turned into the Honors Chair.

Requirements for honors project supervisors. Your supervisor must agree to the following:

  • Will approve your thesis proposal before it is submitted to the committee Chair
  • Will provide the necessary equipment, supplies, and facilities to conduct your research
  • Will guide, support, and evaluate your progress as you work towards your thesis
  • Will review and provide feedback on your progress report before it is submitted
  • Will review and provide feedback on your thesis before you submit the thesis for formal review

The complete text of this section can be found at the Entomology honors web page.

Environment and Sustainability
Program Overview

The research honors program in environment and sustainability involves original, independent research that generates novel findings in a breadth of disciplines spanning the social, biological, and physical sciences and humanities. Students are encouraged to understand and address contemporary environmental and sustainability issues through an interdisciplinary and integrated approach. Thesis candidates learn how to design and carry out research under the direct supervision and guidance of a thesis advisor.

Prospective candidates are encouraged to network early in the junior year with faculty instructors, advisors, and graduate teaching assistants to identify faculty doing work that aligns with their interests and career goals. Students doing research off campus rely on winter and summer breaks to collect data at their field sites.

In the senior year, candidates meet on a regular basis with their thesis advisor whose responsibility it is to guide and approve the thesis work. Candidates will present the findings of their work in a special symposium in May.

Thesis Timeline

Thesis work is completed early in the senior spring semester. The thesis manuscript is submitted for formal review in mid-April. Once the thesis is formally accepted, CALS candidates graduate with Distinction in Research.

Junior Year
  1. Identify a thesis advisor and research topic if you did not do so in sophomore year.
  2. Apply to the E&S Honors Program by the end of junior year using the link on the E&S honors web page.
Senior Year
  1. ENVS 4990 Undergraduate Research in Environment and Sustainability can be added (in consultation with your research advisor) to receive credit for research work done in fall and/or spring. Candidates in both CALS and CAS enroll in research credits using the CALS Special Studies form. Enrollment in research credits is optional, not a requirement, in the E&S honors program.
  2. April 15: Target date for formal thesis submission for May graduates, December and August graduates should contact the E&S Program for details on their timelines.
  3. By the end of classes, candidates will receive thesis feedback and have an opportunity to revise their manuscript.
  4. Thesis Revision: By the end of finals, candidates submit the final version of thesis.
  5. May: Candidates present the findings of their thesis project in an honors symposium.
  6. Students may volunteer to publish their original honors research on eCommons, Cornell's digital repository, as long as doing so does not interfere with other plans, such as patenting or publishing in a professional journal. Authors must sign a Release to Publish, obtained from the E&S honors program coordinator, in order to publish their thesis on eCommons.
Information Science

Students should follow the CALS social sciences guidelines to obtain research honors in information science and refer to our honors requirements page for more information.

Students are accepted into the social science research honors program of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences after:

  • meeting all the college criteria described in Courses of Study
  • evaluation of the student's written application
  • approval of a detailed thesis proposal.

The application and proposal are due to the program area chair no later than the third week of the first semester of the senior year. Students must have a 3.0 GPA or better to be considered.

Each student is encouraged to begin working on this proposal with a prospective faculty thesis advisor during the junior year. The purpose of the proposal is two-fold. First, it formalizes a plan of study and establishes a set of expectations between the student and his or her faculty advisor. Second, the honors committee reviews the proposal to determine whether it is consistent with honors thesis requirements and to make suggestions for improvement. The proposal should be 5 to 10 typed, double-spaced pages and include the following:

  • Research Topic: State the problem to be studied or the topic of interest. Review the basic literature and the background of the problem or topic; include a more extensive bibliography to be consulted.
  • Research Questions/Empirical Hypotheses: Specify the proposed questions to be answered or hypotheses to be tested empirically via collection of data and a mode of analysis accepted in the social sciences.
  • Research Methods: Discuss the models to be constructed (if any), sampling procedures, data collection procedures (including measurement instruments and survey or experimental designs, if appropriate), and proposed methods of analysis.
  • Expected Significance: State what new knowledge or information is likely to be forthcoming and why it is important. State any practical applications expected as a result of the research.
  • Faculty advisors must be members of the graduate faculty. Exceptions may be granted for persons with special expertise who are deemed capable of thesis supervision; exceptions may be granted pending petition to the Social Science Research Honors Committee. Students should register for honors credit directed by the faculty research honors project advisor. Honors independent study (6 credits) can be awarded accompanying the work.
  • Distinction in research is awarded upon approval of the research honors thesis by the Social Science Research Honors Committee. The research should deal with a substantive issue in one of the fields in the social sciences. Both the results of the research and the methodology (or the logical argument by which the results were achieved) must be reported. Reviews of the literature, practical conclusions or applications, or broad characterizations of an area of inquiry may constitute part of the research report but are not themselves sufficient to count as research.
  • Honors theses should be written according to the form of any standard journal within the appropriate field. Three copies of the thesis must be submitted to the chair of the Social Science Research Honors Committee no later than three weeks before the last day of classes of the semester for which the degree is sought. A supporting letter from the faculty member supervising the work also must be submitted. The thesis will be independently reviewed and revisions may be required before the thesis is accepted. Final approval of the thesis requires a majority vote of the honors committee.
Landscape Studies

The research honors program in landscape studies offers outstanding undergraduates in CALS the opportunity to work with a member of the landscape architecture faculty to pursue supervised independent research in the cultural landscape, landscape archeology, environmental design resilience, community-based design and other design topics. The subject matter and nature of the research experience may be quite varied. Students participating should find the experience intellectually stimulating and rewarding, whether or not they intend to pursue a research career. The guidance and supervision of a faculty member with substantial interest and expertise in the subject is essential to the success of the research honors project. It is expected that the research will require significant effort and creative input by the student in its design and execution and in reporting the results.

Students who consider this option should be aware that honors research is undertaken above and beyond all requirements for graduation in the major of landscape architecture. It involves a number of deadlines and a considerable time commitment. Before signing on for research honors, students need to consult with their academic advisor to make sure that honors research projects will not interfere with other academic or professional objectives such as job applications, preparation of portfolios or application to graduate school as these may need to be deferred until the thesis is complete. Students are responsible for meeting deadlines and being prepared for presentations and other meetings.

Although honors research credits for spring semester junior year and both semesters senior year are designated a letter grade, individual mentors may choose the R grade for work in progress until the project has been fully completed. Grade is determined by each student's mentor. The designation of "distinction in research" on the diploma is awarded at the recommendation of the faculty advisor and other referees to the honors committee chair. An outline of activities for both years is given below.

Honors Degree Requirements

The Landscape Studies Research Honors Committee requires that an undergraduate who is interested in embarking on a research honors project proceed with the following steps:

Junior year: Identify a potential research honors project sponsor and secure that faculty member's commitment to sponsor the student in the research project. This should be accomplished early in the second semester of the junior year and be finalized by the end of the spring semester.

  1. Work with a faculty advisor to identify and formulate a research question or pursuit. If the faculty advisor is not in the Department of Landscape Architecture, select a co-advisor from the department to ensure that the research is consistent with the field.
  2. Submit a completed application and proposal (approved by the honors project supervisor and the chair of the research honors committee) no later than the end of the fourth week of the first semester of the senior year. Earlier submissions are encouraged. These will be reviewed by two ad hoc committee members, and successful thesis proposals will be submitted to the college honors committee by the sixth week.
  3. Carry out an independent research effort that is original and separate from the work of others who may be investigating similar subjects.
  4. Submit an outline of the thesis to the chair of the committee by the end of January for a May graduation.
  5. Submit a draft to the readers by April 15. Describe and summarize the work within the range of formats used in the master's thesis program or professional journals in design or research. This version will be reviewed by the faculty supervisor and two ad hoc reviewers, and the student will be able to incorporate the committee's comments and suggestions into the final version, which will be due the last day of classes. Referees prepare a recommendation to the honors committee chair regarding the acceptability of the honors thesis.
  6. Give one oral presentation to the group of other honors research students and invited faculty members. Both presentations are during the student's senior year.
  7. Send one bound copy of the completed and defended thesis to the honors committee chair by May 13 or another date provided by CALS, whichever is sooner.
  8. Students may choose to publish their original honors research at eCommons Cornell University Library, as long as doing so does not interfere with other plans, such as patenting or publishing in a professional journal. A permission form to allow a thesis to be made available online at Mann Library can be obtained from the honors committee chair.
Nutritional Sciences, within the Division of Nutritional Sciences

Honors Program in the Division of Nutritional Sciences (DNS) is designed to challenge research-oriented DNS majors (NS, HBHS, and GPHS) with strong academic records. Students may conduct Honors research within or outside DNS.

The Honors Program is a structured research-based experience that focuses and builds on a student’s ongoing research, and involves four general components:

  • NS 3980, an introductory course in research (fall junior year for spring graduates)
  • Successful application to the DNS Honors Program (spring of junior year for spring graduates, fall of junior year for fall graduates)
  • A multi-semester independent research project, mentored by a faculty PI (final 3+ semesters)
  • Completion of a written thesis that reports the research (final two semesters)
  • Oral presentation of research at the DNS Undergraduate Honors Symposium (final semester)

Interested DNS majors should visit the DNS Honors Program page to review detailed eligibility requirements, application procedures, submission requirements and assignment descriptions, deadlines, and recent Honors theses.

Many DNS majors participate in research through independent study or employment, with or without applying to the DNS Honors Program. Read more about getting involved in undergraduate research and about DNS faculty research.

Physical Sciences

The research honors program in physical sciences provides outstanding students with an opportunity to do independent research under the supervision of a faculty member in the Departments of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Food Science, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, or Biological Statistics and Computational Biology.

Application Requirements and Procedures

In addition to meeting the requirements of the college, the student is expected to:

  1. Identify a thesis advisor and thesis topic before the end of the junior year.
  2. Work with the thesis advisor to prepare a budget, short research proposal (2–3 pages), and application form. These materials must be received by the Physical Sciences committee chair by the end of the third week of senior year.
  3. Enroll in the program for a minimum of two semesters.
  4. Enroll in the appropriate departmental undergraduate research course for a total of at least 6 credits.
  5. Submit an outline of the thesis to the chair of the committee by the end of January (for a May graduation).
  6. Submit a draft of the thesis to the thesis advisor with sufficient lead-time for a revision to be prepared.
  7. Submit three copies of the thesis and names of recommended reviewers to the chair of the honors committee by four weeks before the end of classes in the semester in which graduation is expected.
  8. Student should make the proper arrangements with their department for an oral or poster presentation of the thesis.
  9. Students may volunteer to publish their original honors research at eCommons Cornell University Library, as long as doing so does not interfere with other plans, such as patenting or publishing in a professional journal. A permission form to allow a thesis to be made available online at Mann Library can be obtained from the honors committee chair.

There is no required format, but the thesis is usually written in the form of a research journal article or a master's thesis.

Further details of the program can be obtained from the chair of the Physical Sciences Research Honors Committee.

Plant Sciences

The Research Honors Program in Plant Sciences is designed for students interested in seeking advanced training in laboratory or field research through completion of an original research project under the guidance of a faculty member in the School of Integrative Plant Science (SIPS). The breadth and diversity of research interests of SIPS faculty provide students a valuable opportunity to engage in basic and applied research to be well-positioned to pursue career goals. Students may also work with faculty in any department at Cornell as long as the research topic deals with plants.

Honors Program Requirements and Procedures

Students interested in enrolling in the Research Honors Program in Plant Sciences must:

  • Meet college requirements
  • Have an overall GPA of at least 3.0
  • By the first semester of the junior year, discuss your interests in the program with your academic advisor and with potential faculty research mentors.  Become engaged in research.
  • By the second semester of the junior year, initiate an independent research project with a faculty research supervisor who will guide and approve the thesis work (recommended: complete  PLSCI 4990 Independent Undergraduate Research in Plant Science)
  • In the first semester of the senior year, attend the information session for new applicants. For the Fall semester, it will be in the week after Labor Day. Contact the research honors committee chair, Dr. Teresa Pawlowska (tep8@cornell.edu), for the time and place.
  • In the first semester of the senior year, submit your application, as described below. The deadline for receipt of the application will be the sixth Thursday of the semester.
Application Procedures

Application involves a two-step procedure:

  1. Submit the following documents via email to the committee chair, Dr. Teresa Pawlowska (tep8@cornell.edu):
    1. Research description (3-6 pages, single space, font 12) that should include:
      1. Title of research project, your name, and name of research supervisor
      2. Statement of objectives and significance
      3. Brief overview of literature
      4. Experimental procedures
      5. Research accomplished to date
      6. Literature cited
    2. Signed honors thesis supervisor agreement. Contact Dr. Pawlowska (tep8@cornell.edu), for a copy. Supervisors must agree to mentor your project, provide necessary facilities and supplies, and work with you toward a successful completion of your thesis.
    3. Your application will be reviewed by two or more members of the Plant Science Honors Committee, or other faculty members with expertise in your area of research.
  2. Upon approval of your application at Step 1, you will be asked to submit your application to CALS Research Honors at the Experience Cornell website.
Honors Degree Requirements

Honors candidates are encouraged to enroll and obtain credit each semester in PLSCI 4990 Independent Undergraduate Research in Plant Science under the direction of the faculty member acting as the honors supervisor, although the program does not have a specific credit requirement.

Students accepted into the Plant Sciences Honors Program must complete the following in order to graduate with Distinction in Research:

  • Enroll in PLSCI 4950 Senior Seminar in Plant Sciences and present research findings at the SIPS Senior Symposium (end of the spring semester of the senior year).
  • Plant Sciences Honors graduates are encouraged to present their work at the Cornell Undergraduate Research Board Spring Forum [CURB] near the end of each semester.  (See: cornellcurb.edu).
  • Submit honors thesis by the scheduled deadline near the end of your senior year [thesis should be submitted electronically to the committee chair (tep8@cornell.edu).]
    • Your thesis will be reviewed by faculty who will recommend revisions and provide professional feedback.
  • Students encouraged to publish their original research in co-authored peer-reviewed journals with their supervisor and collaborators.  In addition, students are encouraged to publish their thesis at eCommons, Cornell University Library.
Social Sciences

This thesis program is open to students in CALS who work in a set of social science related fields (including applied economics and management, global development, international agriculture and rural development, biometry and statistics, and information science). The program provides an excellent opportunity for students to pursue independent study and research under the guidance/mentorship of a faculty member. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with faculty during their junior year in order to identify someone to serve as their honors thesis advisor. Honors thesis faculty advisors must be members of the graduate faculty. Exceptions may be granted for persons with special expertise pending petition to the committee. Previously approved theses covered a wide range of topics and methodologies. A complete list can be found at the Cornell library eCommons website.

Students are accepted into the social sciences research honors program of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences after meeting all the college criteria, after evaluation of the student's written application, and on approval of a detailed thesis proposal by the Social Science Honors Committee.

Guidelines and Due Dates

A. Application and Proposal:

Students must submit by email a copy of the completed application and proposal to the social science program area faculty committee chair (Dr. Tom Hirschl) as well as a letter of support from their advisor, confirming their ability to oversee the thesis (see application deadlines below). Late applications will not be considered.

Application timeline & dates

  • Junior year: Students are strongly encouraged to meet with faculty during their junior year in order to identify someone to serve as their honors thesis advisor. Honors thesis faculty advisors must be members of the graduate faculty. Exceptions may be granted for persons with special expertise pending petition to the committee.
  • For May graduates, the proposal is due the 3rd Friday of September to the Social Science Undergraduate Program Coordinator. (For December graduates, the proposal will be due the 3rd Friday of February of the Spring semester.)
  • The thesis is due the 3rd Friday of April the Spring semester to the Social Science Undergraduate Program Coordinator. (For December graduates, the proposal will be due the 3rd Friday of November in the Fall semester.)

May Graduate Timeline

Proposal Details
Working with their honors thesis advisor, students should begin developing their thesis proposals during the second semester of junior year. The purpose of the proposal is twofold. First, it formalizes a plan of study and establishes a set of expectations between the student and the faculty advisor. Second, the honors committee reviews the proposal to determine whether it is consistent with honors thesis requirements and to make suggestions for improvement. Students accepted into the honors program may register for credit directed by the honors thesis faculty advisor (e.g., AEM 4990 Undergraduate Research, COMM 4990 Independent Research, EDUC 4990 Undergraduate Research, GDEV 4990 Independent Research in Global Development).

The proposal should be 5 to 10 typed, double-spaced pages and include the following:

  1. Research Topic: State the problem to be studied or the topic of interest. Review the basic literature and the background of the problem or topic; include a more extensive bibliography to be consulted.
  2. Research Questions/Empirical Hypotheses: Specify the proposed questions to be answered or hypotheses to be tested empirically via collection of data and a mode of analysis accepted in the social sciences.
  3. Research Methods: Discuss the models to be constructed (if any), sampling procedures, data collection procedures (including measurement instruments and survey or experimental designs, if appropriate), and proposed methods of analysis.
  4. Expected Significance: State what new knowledge or information is likely to be forthcoming and why it is important. State any practical applications expected as a result of the research.
  5. Research Timeline: Provide a brief chronological plan for how you will complete your project by the April deadline. This is intended to help you think about how to plan your workload to complete the project by mid-April. In this section, you need to think about data collection and access issues (especially for students collecting their own data/those that will require Institutional Review Board approval. See more details here: https://www.irb.cornell.edu/faq/#gq3). You also should set targets for delivering drafts/updates to your advisor.
  6. Attached to your proposal, you need to include a letter signed by your advisor confirming their ability to oversee your project and confirming that you have jointly agreed upon the application and timeline.
Honors Degree Requirements

B. Final Submission for Review and Approval Requirements:

Honors theses should be written in accordance with the formatting required for any standard journal within the appropriate field. Distinction in research is awarded upon approval of the research honors thesis by the committee. Both the results of the research and the methodology (or the logical argument by which the results were achieved) must be reported. Reviews of the literature, practical conclusions or applications, or broad characterizations of an area of inquiry may constitute part of the research report but are not themselves sufficient as research.

The committee recommends the submission of the thesis draft to the research advisor two months before graduation to permit sufficient time for revision.

Completed theses are due approximately one month before graduation, on the third Friday of April:

May Graduate Timeline
One electronic copy of the final thesis (in pdf or Word format) should be sent by email to the Social Sciences program area faculty committee chair no later than the due date. A supporting letter from the faculty member supervising the work must be submitted either electronically or as a hard copy.

The thesis will be independently reviewed typically by the faculty committee members, and external reviewers where appropriate, within about two weeks. If further revisions are required, students will be informed and a revised draft will be requested.

Students may volunteer to publish their final, approved thesis at eCommons Cornell University Library, as long as doing so does not interfere with other plans, such as patenting or publishing in a professional journal. A permission form to allow a thesis to be made available online at Mann Library can be obtained from the honors committee chair.

We also recommend students to consult the following resources as they prepare their thesis drafts:

Off-Campus Opportunities

There are two approved channels for credit-bearing off-campus study:

  • Credit earned through an approved, accredited university or study abroad program administered through the Office of Global Learning.
  • Credit earned in Cornell courses that require off-campus activity.

Students who plan to enroll in courses at another institution should refer to the non-Cornell (transfer) credit policies.

Study Abroad and Other International Opportunities

Students attending Cornell Global Programs during the fall or spring semester must:

  • be a registered, full-time student;
  • be in good academic standing and have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or above. Some programs may require a minimum of 3.0 GPA or higher;
  • Be able to study abroad and graduate on time;
  • apply by the stated deadlines;
  • apply for an approved program through the Office of Global Learning. Students may petition to receive a one-time recognition and permission to attend a non-approved university or study abroad program. There is no guarantee of an approval and all petitions will go through a review process by both the Office of Global Learning and CALS. Credit is not awarded retroactively after a return from a leave of absence during which you may have studied abroad independently;
  • receive approval on the "CALS Study Abroad Participation and Course Approval Form" from their faculty advisor and/or designated department coordinator, and CALS Office of Student Services.

Programs Must:

  • be a "CALS-approved" accredited university or study abroad program offered through the Office of Global Learning. Search the Experience Cornell: select "Global" under Category, and "Agriculture and Life Sciences" under the College/School filter on the left side of the screen in order to view CALS-approved opportunities;
  • be an approved accredited university or study abroad program by both the Office of Global Learning and CALS that has been given one-time recognition status through the official petition process.

Credits earned through Office of Global Learning Fall and Spring programs do not count towards the 60 maximum transfer credits permitted; credits are limited to 15 credits per semester, 30 per academic year.

External Transfer students are able to participate in the same study abroad opportunities as all CALS students. For students with 45 or fewer transfer credits, studying abroad for a semester can fit into a Cornell degree quite seamlessly. However, students with more than 45 transfer credits should discuss their individual situation with a CALS study abroad advisor.

CALS Global Fellows Program

The CALS Global Fellows Program supports CALS undergraduate students from any CALS major in pursuit of challenging, professionally focused summer internships and research placements that enhance and complement their career goals and academic progress while enriching their undergraduate experience with diverse cultural and international immersion. Through key partnerships, the Global Fellows Program provides a platform for students to make positive and definable contributions to global organizations and communities.

Acceptance to the program is competitive and a limited number of students are selected each year.

More information regarding specific placement opportunities, eligibility, and how to apply can be found online.

Capital Semester

Capital Semester offers the unique opportunity to help students explore careers in public service, public policy, politics, and government. Students intern directly for a Member of the New York State Assembly or New York State Senate in Albany. These programs are offered during the spring semester and are open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Policy interests may include, but are not limited to: Health Care; Environment; Agriculture; Energy; Science and Technology; Crime, Incarceration, and Justice; Social Sciences; Human Rights; Children and Families; Education; Taxation and Economic Policy; Labor; and Urban Planning.

This program offers a paid internship (stipend) in the New York State Legislature, earning a full semester of credits (12 credits). 

As part of either the Senate or Assembly, students learn through direct experience and formal instruction how the New York State Legislature functions. The Capital Semester Internship Program offers students a type of real-world experience. For full program details go to the Experience Cornell Pages for NYS Assembly or NYS Senate. Contact Zoe Nelson before applying at zmn2@cornell.edu.

Ithaca College Exchange Programs Policies

Overview

The Cornell University–Ithaca College Local Exchange Program allows matriculated full-time Cornell students, with prior approval and within stated stipulations, to cross-register at the other institution only during the fall and spring academic semesters. 

Policies
  1. As an Ithaca College exchange program participant, the student must pay for full-time status at Cornell University (12 or more credits for undergraduate students
  2. Ithaca College Exchange credits will be treated as non-Cornell (transfer) credits and reflected on the Cornell transcript.
  3. Cornell students can register only for Ithaca College courses applicable to their program that do not duplicate Cornell courses.
  4. A student may only take courses not offered at their home institution. (Schedule conflicts or unavailability of courses in a given semester do not constitute valid rationales for enrollment as an exchange student.)
  5. The School of Continuing Education website provides more information for those interested in this program.

Only Division of Nutritional Sciences undergraduate majors may complete courses at Ithaca College for the Applied Exercise Science minor. Contact dnsstudentservices@cornell.edu for further information.

Brooks School Cornell in Washington DC Connect Program

Cornell in Washington DC Connect is a spring semester or summer program in the heart of Washington, D.C., our nation’s capital. This unique experience offers students in all colleges an opportunity to earn full academic credit for the spring semester or summer. Students take part in small courses led by Cornell faculty, and gain work experience through an internship of their choosing, while living in the Brooks School's residence hall near Dupont Circle. Learn more about the Cornell in Washington DC Connect.

Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML)

Cornell's Shoals Marine Lab is the country's largest undergraduate-focused marine field station, offering summer courses on Appledore Island, Gulf of Maine. Students from any major can focus on coastal field work and experiential learning while living on the island. Courses could meet major and college distribution requirements. Financial aid and scholarships are available. Please refer to the Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML) website for more information.

Shoals Summer Semester

The Shoals Semester program offers students a chance to apply their Cornell financial aid package toward a summer semester at the Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML). Participation in the Shoals Summer Semester will require students to accelerate their undergraduate program at Cornell by accumulating a full semester's worth of credits (12 or more) over the summer at SML. Students who complete a Shoals Semester must opt to graduate early or replace a regular fall or spring semester with a voluntary leave of absence. This option is especially useful for students in the Marine Biology major concentration or minor. For more information, contact Academic Coordinator, Dr. Eugene Won for advising and the required steps to apply.

Eligibility requirements for College Approval:

  1. Students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
  2. Be in good academic standing
  3. Complete the application form with Dr. Won

Special Studies

Several departments in the college offer independent study (4970), teaching assistantships (4980), and undergraduate research (4990) for academic credit. To ensure a fair and manageable system to deal with these specialty courses, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has set forth guidelines to serve as minimum requirements for a student to receive credit.

  • A Cornell CALS faculty member is directly involved in determining both the course content and in evaluating the student's work. The experience should be purposeful, provide opportunities for reflection, present a continual challenge to the student, and incorporate active learning, with the student an active participant in all stages of the experience from planning to evaluation.
  • Before a student begins the independent study, research, or teaching assistantship:
    • A learning contract should be written between the Cornell CALS faculty member responsible for grading and the student.
      • This contract should state the conditions of the work, assignments, supervision, learning goals, number of credits and methods of evaluation of the work.
      • Credit hours should be determined in accordance with Cornell's credit hour policy and based upon number of hours of work per week.
  • Special Studies Research, Teaching, and Independent Study requests are submitted electronically. More information is available on the CALS website.
    • Some departments may have their own form and/or course numbers.
  • Evaluation: Credit will only be assigned or accepted in cases where a Cornell faculty member is directly involved in determining both the special studies course content and in evaluating the student's work.
  • Progress Updates: Students must keep the CALS faculty member responsible for grading updated on the progress of the special study.
  • Individual departments may add more requirements (including additional forms to complete) to the special study based on specific needs such as time constraints, faculty workloads, and the relationship of the special study to the goals of the department.
  • Students should further develop the experience based on the college Experiential Learning Criteria.

Internships

Several departments in the college offer supervised internships (4960) for academic credit. Academic credit isn’t awarded for the internship, rather the work (presentation/paper/project) conducted during the following fall or spring term in the special studies class. Students should consult with their major department prior to the start of an internship if they want credit. Internship Guidelines must be reviewed and can be found on the CALS website under Internship. Credit will not be awarded for internships completed prior to matriculation.

  • Special Studies Internship requests are submitted electronically.  More information is available on the CALS website.
  • Individual departments may add more requirements (including additional forms to complete) to the internship based on specific needs such as time constraints, faculty workloads, and the relationship of the internship to the goals of the department.

Pay and Credit for Undergraduate Research, Teaching, and Internships

Undergraduate Research: students can receive pay or credit, but not both. 

Undergraduate Teaching Assistant: students can receive pay or credit, but not both.

Internships:

Students may receive both pay and credit for the same internship experience and receive credit for the academic component of the same experience.

Double Majors in CALS

Students are admitted into a single major. Completion of one (1) major is required for graduation. Some students may choose to complete more than one (1) major. Completed majors are posted on the official transcript. Students are not permitted to extend their studies beyond eight semesters (or the equivalent) in order to complete additional majors or minors.

Students interested in declaring an additional major can find more information on the CALS website. Students who pursue an additional major must choose a major that is available within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

  • Double majors across colleges are not permitted. For example, students may not double major in CALS Biological Engineering or Environmental Engineering and any other Engineering major.
  • Students majoring in CALS Landscape Architecture may find it challenging to double major within CALS. Due to the studio-based nature of the Landscape Architecture curriculum, no more than twelve (12) credits - typically electives - are expected to overlap with another CALS major.
  • Similarly, students majoring in CALS Biological Engineering or Environmental Engineering may find it difficult to double major within CALS. The specialized nature of engineering coursework means that no more than 12 credits - generally electives - are likely to overlap with another CALS major.