A multidisciplinary approach
The world is complex. But we believe understanding is possible.
Our signature strengths
We take an integrated and holistic approach to development. With a mission to advance a more equitable, sustainable, and food-secure world for all, we engage at the intersections of development to create a flourishing world now and for future generations.
Wellbeing and inclusion
“A World that Leaves No One Behind”
Studying the causes, manifestations and consequences of poverty and inequality in the global political economy, the histories and legacies of development projects, and alternative models to promote wellbeing
Environmental sustainability
“A Greener World and Greener Economies”
Addressing strategies to mitigate or reverse the effects of climate change, helping people and communities adapt to new environmental realities, and researching the social and political dimensions of human-environment interactions
Food and nutritional security
“Sustainable and Sustaining Food Systems”
Identifying pathways to sustainable food systems while investigating the social and political dynamics of these systems across the cycle from cultivation to distribution, consumption, and recycling
How will you change the world?
Education with impact
In Global Development, we guide our students to become next-generation changemakers. Our engaged learning model encourages students to interpret problems, clarify solutions, develop leadership and foster positive social change now and into the future.
Study trips in Global Development
A new style of engaged courses in Global Development will allow students to apply classroom-based lessons in real-world development contexts. Launching in the fall semester of 2023, Global Development will offer two immersive faculty-led study trips each year. The first two courses will travel to Cameroon and Costa Rica.
Latest news
Discover how Global Development is committed to making a sustainable impact
News
Microbes are by far the most important factor in determining how much carbon is stored in the soil, according to a new study with implications for mitigating climate change and improving soil health for agriculture and food production.
Field Note
In her time at Cornell, Maria DiGiovanni ’23 explored and confronted a multitude of challenges that impact our food system. From co-founding the Soil Factory to co-leading Cornell Hunger Relief, she’s put classroom lessons into practice. Her...