Cornell University

Overview

The Cornell College Scholar Program is an accelerated and highly selective undergraduate pathway offered by the College of Arts & Sciences at Cornell University. This program empowers students to design an interdisciplinary course of study centered around a question or issue of their choice. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship and are required to complete an independent senior project, often culminating in an honors thesis.

What you'll study

As a College Scholar, you will have the opportunity to craft a personalized interdisciplinary major tailored to your interests. The program encourages advanced learning and independent research, leading to a significant senior capstone project.

• Custom curriculum: Create a unique course of study instead of adhering to standard distribution requirements.
• Interdisciplinary focus: Integrate coursework from various disciplines to explore complex questions.
• Flexibility: Combine the College Scholar major with other majors or minors within the College of Arts & Sciences.
• Independent senior project: Complete a substantial independent project during your senior year, typically resulting in an honors thesis.
• Diverse project formats: Engage in library-based research, laboratory work, community projects, or creative inquiries.
• Research design options: Choose between empirical studies or theoretical, archival, and creative inquiries for your project.

Outcome: Graduates leave with a cohesive interdisciplinary academic record and a comprehensive capstone project that showcases their research, analytical, and communication skills.

Entry requirements

Cornell University does not have a universal GRE/GMAT requirement for undergraduate admissions. The admissions process considers the entire application, including academic preparation and demonstrated potential for success in the program.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Cornell College Scholar Program are well-equipped for a variety of career paths due to their interdisciplinary training and research experience. The skills developed through independent projects and faculty mentorship prepare students for advanced studies, professional degrees, and diverse roles in fields such as education, research, public policy, and the arts.