Agricultural Sciences

The Agricultural Sciences undergraduate program at Cornell University offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental and applied aspects of agriculture, food systems, and environmental stewardship. This program is designed to prepare students for diverse careers in agriculture, biotechnology, environmental management, farm management, research, and policy-making. Students will explore a wide range of disciplines including crop science, animal science, soil and water conservation, sustainable farming practices, agricultural economics, and food systems management. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, providing students with hands-on experience through laboratory work, field studies, internships, and research projects. Cornell’s state-of-the-art facilities, extensive research centers, and close ties with industry leaders offer students unique opportunities for experiential learning and professional development. The program encourages critical thinking, innovation, and problem-solving to address the global challenges of food security, climate change, and sustainable resource use. Students will also gain a strong foundation in the sciences, economics, and policy frameworks that influence agricultural practices worldwide. The faculty comprises renowned experts dedicated to advancing agricultural innovation and sustainability. Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to contribute to the development of sustainable agricultural practices, improve food production systems, and promote environmental health. Enrolling in this program enables students to become part of Cornell’s vibrant community committed to agricultural excellence and sustainability. Through interdisciplinary coursework, research opportunities, and partnerships with industry and government agencies, students are prepared to lead efforts toward a resilient and sustainable agricultural future.

Core Knowledge

• PLSCS 1900 - Sustainable Agriculture: Food, Farming, and the Future
• PLSCI 1101 - Plant Science and Systems
• PLSCS 2110 - Field Crop Systems
• ENTOM/PLSCS 4440 - Integrated Pest 

Concentrations

All students take core courses in sustainable agriculture, soil science, animal science, horticulture, business management, international agriculture, and integrated pest management, and gain practical experience by completing an internship for academic credit. The requirement to select one or more concentration areas encourages students to become experts in the area of agriculture that is most exciting to them.

Animal Science

The Animal Science concentration focuses on the biology, nutrition, and management of farm animals. Courses in this concentration are selected to complement the collective agricultural skills gained from the major core requirements. There are additional courses in dairy, swine, sheep, and poultry management. Interested students may choose to become involved with Cornell's extensive dairy management program, including hands-on educational facilities on campus and a nearby teaching and research center. This concentration will prepare students for careers with animal agriculture operations.

Business

Students concentrating in Business have many options for specialization from food, to finance, business management, or policy. All students take foundational courses in accounting, finance, and marketing, in addition to the introductory business management course required of all Ag Sciences graduates. This concentration aligns well with related minors and many relevant opportunities.

Crop Production and Management

The Crop Production and Management concentration aims to strengthen the student's knowledge and skills in the production and management of crop systems, including the use of both organic and conventional methods. Within the concentration, students take courses in field crops, horticulture, pest management, and soil science. Students can learn the importance of weed management, the principles of vegetable production, nutrient cycling in cropping systems, and how to calculate returns on different management systems. This concentration encourages students to learn more about how to overcome environmental stresses such as drought, cold, and weeds in cropping systems and to develop pest control methods that are sustainable and do not harm the ecosystem.

Education and Communication

Students concentrating in Education and Communication explore individual interests pursuing coursework of at least 12 credits in alignment with associated minors. This concentration offers exceptional flexibility. Those considering formal or nonformal teaching with Cooperative Extension, non-profit organizations, or in secondary education will work with an advisor to plan for the Education minor.Those considering work in publishing, public relations, or other communication fields will work with an advisor to plan for the Communication minor.

Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable Agriculture generally refers to land management practices designed to provide goods and services over time while maintaining natural resources for the future. Sustainable practices encompass the entire ecological system, including both social and biological conditions, in order to understand and develop holistic management plans. This concentration allows students to combine interests in environmental and social studies with current topics in agriculture such as organic farming practices, local food initiatives, farm workers' rights, energy sources, and farm policy. Graduates from this concentration have the skills to work in a range of related fields such as sustainable education, immigration rights, social activism, farm management, environmental studies, and agricultural policy.

Requirements

• SAT or the ACT —CALS does not have SAT/ACT score requirements
• Landscape Architecture: Portfolio required
• International Students: TOEFL (score of 100 or better) or IELTS (score of 7) required
• The Common Application (CA) or Universal College Application (UCA)
• The School Report
• Counselor Recommendation
• Two Teacher Evaluations
• The Midyear Report, when your mid-year grades are available
• $80 application fee or fee waiver
• Official secondary/high school transcript
• Cornell University Questions and Writing Supplement (CA) or Cornell Supplement (UCA)

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Agricultural Sciences program at Cornell University includes a comprehensive structure of options designed to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees vary depending on the residency status of the student, with in-state students benefiting from lower rates compared to out-of-state students. For the academic year 2023-2024, in-state undergraduate students pay approximately $65,000 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $65,000 annually. Graduate students may have different fee structures, often determined by the specific department and funding availability.

Financial aid is widely available for qualifying students, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and work-study opportunities. Cornell University offers a variety of endowed scholarships specifically for students pursuing degrees in Agricultural Sciences, which are awarded based on academic achievement and financial need. In addition, many students receive Federal Pell Grants and state-specific financial aid programs to help offset tuition costs.

Graduate students often secure funding through research or teaching assistantships, which cover tuition and provide a stipend for living expenses. These assistantships are competitive and typically require students to contribute to ongoing research projects or course instruction. Moreover, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as private scholarships, fellowships, and industry-sponsored grants.

The university also participates in federal loan programs, enabling students to borrow funds with favorable interest rates and flexible repayment options. Loan eligibility is determined based on need and eligibility criteria set by federal agencies. Furthermore, Cornell provides financial planning services to assist students and families in navigating the cost of education and maximizing available resources.

International students interested in the Agricultural Sciences program can apply for scholarships geared specifically toward international applicants, as well as utilize global fellowship opportunities. The university’s Office of Financial Aid offers detailed guidance on applying for various sources of funding, including how to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form and other necessary documentation.

In summary, the financing of the Agricultural Sciences program at Cornell University is supported through a rich combination of institutional scholarships, federal and state aid, work opportunities, and loans, enabling a diverse range of students to pursue their academic and research interests in this vital field.

The Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Sciences at Cornell University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices that underpin modern agriculture. This program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in biology, ecology, environmental science, and agricultural technology, preparing them for diverse careers in farming, research, environmental management, policy development, and agricultural business. Throughout their studies, students explore topics such as plant and soil sciences, crop production, sustainable farming practices, pest management, biotechnology, and resource management. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work, field studies, internships, and research projects. Cornell’s state-of-the-art facilities, including research farms and laboratories, provide students with real-world experience. The program also emphasizes the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship, preparing graduates to address global challenges related to food security, climate change, and natural resource conservation. Students are encouraged to participate in interdisciplinary approaches, integrating technology and innovation to develop sustainable solutions. The program benefits from Cornell’s extensive network of partnerships with agricultural industries, government agencies, and research institutions, offering students opportunities for internships and collaborative research. Graduates of the Agricultural Sciences program can pursue careers in agribusiness, farm management, environmental consulting, government agencies overseeing agriculture and natural resources, or continue their education in graduate or professional schools. The faculty consists of leading experts in agriculture and environmental sciences, committed to mentoring students and advancing research in the field. Overall, the program aims to cultivate skilled, visionary professionals who can contribute to sustainable agricultural development and food security worldwide.