Natural Resources and the Environment Graduate Field Handbook

This handbook has been prepared for the use of Master of Science students and faculty in Natural Resources and the Environment and should be read in conjunction with the Code of Legislation, which governs advanced degree programs at Cornell. 

Students who wish to undertake a one to two year research project to enhance their professional credentials or explore the possibility of pursuing a Ph.D. should consider applying for the M.S. degree. Typically, M.S. students engage in a research project after completing two semesters of coursework and complete a research thesis within two to three years. Upon earning their degree, they often pursue careers in the nonprofit or government sectors or continue their studies with a Ph.D.

Students in the M.S./Ph.D. track initially enroll in the master's program and transition to the Ph.D. program once the M.S. degree is awarded.

To qualify for graduation, a M.S. student must be enrolled for two semesters (one academic year); up to one In Absentia semester may count toward the minimum enrollment requirement. The student must also have residency on the Ithaca campus or a Cornell satellite location for a total of two semesters (one academic year). For more information, please refer to the Code of Legislation and Cornell Graduate School's In Absentia policy.

Program timeline:

• M.S. students must select a Special Committee Chairperson (also known as faculty advisor or committee chair) by the third week of the first registered semester.
• First-year M.S. students are required to complete an internal first-year Student Progress Review (SPR) by April 1.
• Every research degree student is required to complete the Graduate School Student Progress Review (SPR) annually, beginning in the second year of enrollment and continuing through degree completion. Due on April 1 of each academic year. 
• Every research degree Graduate student is required to complete training on Responsible Conduct of Research, addressing issues of authorship, peer review, plagiarism, and research misconduct. Each student must complete online training through Cornell’s Office of Research Integrity and Assurance (ORIA) prior to the end of the second registered semester.
• M.S. degree students must sign up for an ORCID prior to the end of their second registered semester. 
• M.S. degree students must complete their special committee selection by the end of the second semester.
• All M.S. degree students must take the Masters Thesis Defense (M exam) within four years. Students must schedule the Masters Thesis Defense (M exam) with the Graduate School at least seven days in advance. Please review the Field Exams section for additional details. 
• Making Academic Progress (Time-to-Degree Limits) The maximum time for completing all M.S. degree requirements is four years (eight semesters), with extensions available upon submission of a General Petition to the Cornell Graduate School.

Admissions and Deadlines: The Graduate Field of Natural Resources and the Environment has a rolling admissions policy for students starting in the Fall semester. While most students begin in the Fall, Spring admissions are also considered. Most admissions decisions are made by early February.

Spring admission: Submit application by November 1st.

Fall admission: Submit application by March 1st.

Admissions Criteria: Applicants should have strong academic records and relevant work experience. It is crucial to correspond with potential faculty members to discuss your research interests. Key admissions criteria include:

• Academic record and work experience.
• Alignment of research interests with a faculty member who is willing to supervise the student.

Applicants must secure a faculty member’s sponsorship for their application to be considered. Prospective students should email faculty whose research interests align with their own to discuss their research goals and secure a commitment before applying. A list of faculty accepting new students and their research interests is available on the Natural Resources and the Environment Graduate Field Faculty webpage. It is essential that you correspond with one or more faculty members about your shared research interests and that one faculty member express interest in looking at your application materials before submitting your application. 

Generally, you do not need to meet or speak with the Director of Graduate Studies. If you have questions about application procedures or your application status, email the Graduate Field Assistant (GFA), nregrad [at] cornell.edu (nregrad[at]cornell[dot]edu). 

To be officially considered for admission you must submit your formal application to the Graduate School.

Applications are reviewed by the Admissions Committee once a faculty member requests a review of the application. Required materials include the application form, academic statement of purpose, personal statement, transcripts, TOEFL or IELTS scores (for international students), and three letters of recommendation. For additional information on TOEFL or IELTS requirements, please review Cornell’s English Language Proficiency Requirements. The Field of Natural Resources and the Environment does not require the GRE or GMAT.

Tips for contacting potential faculty advisors:
For a list of potential faculty advisors, go to the Natural Resources and the Environment Graduate Field Faculty webpage and scroll down. You will be able to see which faculty are considering new students.

We recommend exploring potential advisors’ websites to learn about their research, interests, publications, and labs. Look for any guidance they offer for prospective students and follow their instructions for initial contact. 

Preference is often given to students with work or research experience beyond their undergraduate degree, though it is not a strict requirement. Most of our students have gained some relevant experience before applying. If you have external funding, such as an NSF or Fulbright fellowship, mention this in your email.

Reach out to potential advisors during the Summer or early Fall for admission in the following Fall. This allows ample time to assess if your research interests align with those of the advisor. Email is the most effective means of contact, but be sure to follow any specific instructions on the advisor’s website. 

In your email, briefly introduce yourself, outline your research interests, and explain why you are interested in working with this particular advisor. Advisors are more interested in your general research interests and motivations than in a fully developed project. Clearly articulate why a specific research topic excites you, based on past experiences or the topic's significance.

Keep your email concise, ideally two short paragraphs. Include a brief description of your educational background and any relevant research experiences. If you lack formal research experience, mention related work or personal experiences. If you have clear career goals, such as working in government, the nonprofit sector, or academia, include this information as well. Be sure to attach a CV or resume to your email.

If you do not receive a response, consider sending a follow-up email after two weeks. Advisors may be busy, and your initial email could have arrived at a less opportune time. For your follow-up, resend the original email with a brief note at the top, such as: “Dear Dr. [Name], I am following up to ensure you received my previous email regarding graduate work…”

If you do not receive a response after two follow-ups, it may be best to move on and seek other potential advisors.

M.S. candidates in Natural Resources and the Environment are expected to demonstrate mastery of knowledge in an environmental, natural resources, and/or climate field, along with the capability to conduct research in these areas.  

M.S. Degree Proficiencies

• Demonstrate broad knowledge of the intersection between biophysical and social sciences in addressing environmental, natural resources, and climate problems, and in-depth knowledge related to one’s research topic.
• Make an original research contribution to environmental or natural resource management practice.
• Demonstrate research skills.
  • Conduct observational, ethnographic, experimental, modeling, spatial analysis, and/or other methods required for one’s M.S. research.
  • Interpret and evaluate research findings using rigorous analytical techniques.
  • Communicate research findings through oral presentations and written publications.
• Develop teaching and professional skills.
  • Use traditional and cutting-edge educational approaches in helping others understand environmental, natural resources, and climate science and related issues.  
  • Participate in and contribute to Field activities through the department seminar, Graduate Student Association activities and leadership positions, department DEI Council, and/or service days. 
• Apply research and other knowledge to addressing environmental problems.
  • Collaborate with research partners and stakeholders to explore how one’s research can be applied to addressing environmental problems.
  • Participate in outreach, student clubs, and other activities that involve sharing one’s knowledge with the public.

The Graduate Field of Natural Resources and the Environment does not mandate specific courses. However, it is recommended that all incoming M.S. students enroll in "Introduction to Graduate Studies" (NTRES 6000).

To maintain full-time, enrolled Graduate student status, the Cornell Graduate School enrolls research degree Graduate students in 12 credits of GRAD research courses each Fall and Spring. Students must enroll in GRAD research courses during the Summer if applicable (students who are conducting summer research and/or have a summer fellowship/appointment will need to enroll for the Summer). 

Graduate students may also register for Graduate-Level Thesis Research credits, typically under the supervision of their Special Committee Chair (also known as faculty advisor or committee chair). Additionally, students may take graduate and undergraduate courses in consultation with their Special Committee Chair and Members.

Minimum Grades or GPA: Natural Resources and the Environment adheres to Cornell’s Satisfactory Academic Progress policy which requires a minimum GPA of 2.25 for students in research degrees to remain in good academic standing and be eligible for federal loans. 

Incomplete (INC) Grades: Natural Resources and the Environment follows The Graduate School’s policy where grades designated as Incomplete (INC) may only be changed within one year.

Audits: Students are free to audit courses upon consultation with their Special Committee chair and the course instructor.  

Committee Chair Selection: By the third week of their first semester, M.S. students must select a Special Committee Chairperson (also known as faculty advisor or committee chair) through the Student Center (through the "Graduate Committee Selection" link). The Chairperson must be a member of the Natural Resources and the Environment Graduate Field.

Nominating your Special Committee

Special Committee Nomination: M.S. students must assemble and register their Special Committee with the Cornell Graduate School by the end of their second semester, using the "Graduate Committee Selection" link through the Student Center. This form must be submitted before the last Friday of classes.

M.S. Committee Requirements: M.S. students in the Field of Natural Resources and the Environment must establish a Special Committee with at least two members by the end of their second registered semester. This committee must include a Chairperson from the Field of Natural Resources and the Environment and one graduate field member. Students should consult with their committee chair before inviting other members to serve on their committee. Consistent with the field’s commitment to transdisciplinary education, students should choose committee members representing an array of disciplines. Some committee members may represent fields that have specific course requirements.

Ad hoc special committee members may serve in addition to the two required graduate field members. Ideally, Ad hoc members are Ph.D.-level scientists, and may come from institutions outside Cornell. To add an ad hoc member the Ad Hoc Member Request Form must be submitted. 

For M.S./Ph.D. students, the M.S. requirements must be met before establishing a full Ph.D. Special Committee.

Committee Meetings: The Field of Natural Resources and the Environment requires at least one committee meeting per year, though more frequent meetings are encouraged. Regular meetings help students benefit from their committee members’ expertise, agree on coursework and research projects, and address any issues promptly.

Advising Guide for Research Students

Natural Resources and the Environment Graduate students commonly choose minor subjects from the following Fields/Schools/Programs: American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Biometry, Communication, Development Sociology, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Global Development, and the Dyson School.

Fields are divided into one or more subjects. The subjects are divided into concentrations. Currently, Natural Resources and the Environment has only one subject, i.e., Natural Resources and the Environment, and twelve concentrations: 

• Conservation Biology
• Forest Science
• Wildlife Science
• Fishery and Aquatic Science
• Quantitative Ecology
• Applied Ecology
• Policy and Institutional Analysis
• Risk Analysis and Management
• Ecosystem Biology and Biogeochemistry
• Program Development and Evaluation
• Community-based Natural Resource Management
• Human Dimensions of Natural Resource Management

Cornell is divided into departments for the purposes of undergraduate instruction and many administrative functions. Graduate fields are formed to facilitate broader interaction of faculty and graduate students whose interests overlap but are not necessarily housed within the same department. Therefore, the Graduate Field of Natural Resources and the Environment includes faculty from the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment and multiple other departments.

Replacing Special Committee Members: If the student has an issue with someone on their special committee, the student should first try to resolve the matter with their Committee Chair. If a committee member resigns, the student should work with their chairperson to find a replacement. If the issue is not resolved, then the students should schedule a meeting with the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS).

 In the unlikely event that the chair of a student's Special Committee resigns the student should first discuss the matter with the DGS. Should this discussion fail to resolve the issue, the student should then schedule a meeting with the Office of Graduate Student Life, reaching out to either Janna Lamey or Olivia Hopewell. If the issue remains unresolved, the DGS will aid the student in selecting a new chairperson. The entire process, from the initial discussion with the DGS to the appointment of a new chairperson, should be completed within three months.

First-year M.S. students are required to complete an internal Field first-year Student Progress Review (SPR) by April 1.

Starting in their second academic year, students must complete the Graduate School Student Progress Review (SPR) process by April 1, as mandated by the Graduate School. This process facilitates formal communication and written feedback between students and their advisors, requiring at least one annual meeting with the Special Committee to discuss academic progress, achievements, and future plans. Students submit a form detailing completed milestones, accomplishments, challenges, and plans, and the Special Committee Chair (also known as faculty advisor or committee chair) provides a written assessment of the student's progress, rating it as excellent, satisfactory, needs improvement, or unsatisfactory.

Student Progress Review

Required Examinations:

Masters Thesis Defense (M exam): This exam must be completed before the end of the eighth semester. If a student finds that their circumstances merit an exception to this policy, they may submit the General Petition form to request an exception.

Complete M.S. research proposal: Recommended by the Field of Natural Resources and the Environment and may be required by the student’s special committee.

Public seminar: Natural Resources and the Environment also recommends a public seminar on the thesis research near the time of the Masters Thesis Defense (M exam). This can be scheduled independently or as part of the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment seminar series. 

The Masters Thesis Defense (M exam) must be scheduled at least seven days in advance by submitting the Schedule M Examination form. The student must coordinate with the Graduate Field Assistant to ensure that an exam announcement is emailed at least seven days before the A exam.

There are four possible exam results: Pass, Conditional Pass, Fail, and Unanimously Fail. The student must submit a Results for Final Defense of Master’s Degree (M exam) form to the Graduate School within three business days of taking the Masters Thesis Defense (M exam). 

Enrollment in future terms is not permitted after a passed Masters Thesis Defense (M exam).

Taking Exams

Students in the M.S. /Ph.D. degree program must complete the requirements for the M.S. degree before beginning the Ph.D. program.

The Graduate School has Thesis/Dissertation guides for writing your thesis, covering required sections, formatting guidelines, publishing options, and templates. Upon completion of the thesis, the student must submit the thesis electronically to the Graduate School within 60 days of passing the Masters Thesis Defense (M exam). Enrollment in future terms is not permitted after a passed Masters Thesis Defense (M exam).

The student will work closely with their special committee chair (also known as faculty advisor or committee chair) to establish a reasonable timeline for drafting and revisions. Late submissions will incur a fee. For detailed information on thesis deadlines, requirements, and submission, visit Cornell Graduate School Thesis & Dissertation. Degrees are conferred three times annually and commencement ceremonies are held in December and May.

Graduation Requirements

Cornell supports the Faculty Advancing Inclusive Mentoring (FAIM) framework for faculty/student mentoring that draws upon a strengths-based and identity-informed approach to support mutual growth, development, and success (NASEM, 2019; Windchief, 2019).
The FAIM philosophy, key principles, and core mutual expectation areas for inclusive mentorship provide a foundation for fulfilling mentoring relationships by:
•    supporting mentors and mentees as they seek to develop an understanding of one another’s expectations, cultures, values, and sources of motivation;
•    helping mentors and mentees develop a mentorship plan better aligned to a mentor’s and mentee’s strengths, needs, and goals; and
•    provide resources and tools that can be adapted and adopted by mentors and mentees to be contextually relevant.
 

Students can consult with the Graduate Field Assistant (GFA), who acts as a liaison between faculty and students, and consult with the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) in their department, both of whom can offer guidance and assist with mentoring challenges.

The Cornell Office of Graduate Student Life has additional resources for academic support.

Every research degree Graduate student is required to complete training on Responsible Conduct of Research, addressing issues of authorship, peer review, plagiarism, and research misconduct. Each student must complete online training through Cornell’s Office of Research Integrity and Assurance (ORIA) prior to the end of the second registered semester.

If you work in a lab, you are required to complete specific safety training:

• For general lab safety training, visit Cornell EHS Research Safety.
• If working with animals, refer to Vertebrate Animal Research Compliance.
• If working with human subjects, consult Human Research Compliance.

Present Public Seminar on Thesis Research: It is recommended that M.S. students in the Field of Natural Resources and the Environment give a public presentation on their thesis research at a Cornell campus location within one month before or after their Masters Thesis Defense (M exam). This presentation can be part of the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment seminar series or another seminar series at Cornell, provided it is advertised to the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment community.

Complete M.S. research proposal: Recommended by the Field of Natural Resources and the Environment and may be required by the student’s special committee.

Give Presentation at the Graduate Student Association Symposium in January: Recommended by the Field of Natural Resources and the Environment and may be required by the student’s special committee.

Desk Space Allocation Guidelines: These guidelines outline the process for allocating desk space to graduate students in the Graduate Field of Natural Resources and the Environment, aiming to balance the needs of both incoming and current students. During the annual review, all students will need to assess and report their desk space requirements for the upcoming academic year. Students should carefully evaluate their needs, given the limited availability of space, and discuss their requirements with the Graduate Field Assistant (GFA). Graduate students will be assigned desk space on the 3rd floor of Fernow Hall.

Graduate students are allocated desk space for up to two years for an M.S. degree, five years for a Ph.D. degree, and six years for a combined M.S./Ph.D. degree. High demand may occasionally necessitate the sharing of desk space.

Students on a Leave of Absence (LOA) or In Absentia (IA) status may need to relinquish their desk space, which will be reassigned upon their return.

Students who do not require a permanent desk may use "swing space," where desks are shared among multiple students (e.g., 7 students for 3 desks). Bookshelves are available for personal storage.

Students with additional desk space elsewhere (e.g., Bradfield, Cornell Lab of Ornithology) may choose to share their Fernow desk space, which can be beneficial for those who do not frequently use it.

Change of Degree Policy (M.S. to Ph.D.):

The Graduate Field of Natural Resources and the Environment mandates that students seeking to change their degree program undergo review alongside all other field applications. To be considered by the admissions committee, students must follow the process outlined below.

• Fill out the Graduate School’s  Student Program Change form and email it, along with an updated statement of purpose, to gradstudserv [at] cornell.edu (gradstudserv[at]cornell[dot]edu). Make sure to copy the Natural Resources and the Environment Graduate Field Assistant (GFA) and Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) on the email. 
• The graduate school will move the student’s original graduate school application into the Field of Natural Resources and the Environment application pool for the current admission cycle.
• Send the following required documents to the Natural Resources and the Environment Graduate Field Assistant:
  • A letter from the student’s current special committee chair explaining the reason for the requested change.
  • A minimum of two Letters of Recommendation from Cornell faculty, excluding the current special committee chair but including other special committee members if applicable. 
  • Updated transcript showing Cornell coursework.
  • If available: An example chapter of the student’s M.S. thesis or other publication associated with their Cornell degree program.

Change of Field to Natural Resources and the Environment:
The Graduate Field of Natural Resources and the Environment mandates that students seeking to switch graduate fields undergo review alongside all other field applications. To be considered by the admissions committee, students must follow the process outlined below.

• Fill out the Graduate School’s  Student Program Change form and email it, along with an updated statement of purpose, to gradstudserv [at] cornell.edu (gradstudserv[at]cornell[dot]edu). Make sure to copy the Natural Resources and the Environment Graduate Field Assistant (GFA) and Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) on the email. 
• The graduate school will move the student’s original graduate school application into the Field of Natural Resources and the Environment application pool for the current admission cycle.
• Send the following required documents to the Natural Resources and the Environment Graduate Field Assistant:
  • A letter from the student’s current special committee chair explaining the reason for the requested change.
  • A minimum of two Letters of Recommendation from Cornell faculty, excluding the current special committee chair but including other special committee members if applicable.  
  • Updated transcript showing Cornell coursework.
  • If available: An example chapter of the student’s M.S. thesis or other publication associated with their Cornell degree program.

Most M.S. degree students in the Graduate Field of Natural Resources and the Environment (NRE) are fully funded. They are guaranteed two years of funding, covering tuition, living stipend, health insurance, and summer support. Third-year funding may be available depending on resources and annual contingencies. Students who require more time to complete their degree should discuss their situation and develop a plan with their committee chair (also known as faculty advisor or special committee chair) and the DGS. M.S. students can be admitted as self-funded students. M.S. students will remain funded through the completion of their degree as long as they remain in good academic standing and are within the time-to-degree limits. 

The Graduate School may provide funding through conference grants for graduate students invited to present papers or posters at professional conferences. Award amounts are based on geographic location, not actual expenses. Only one award will be considered during a single academic year (July 1 - June 30). For details and deadlines, visit the Travel Funding Opportunities.

The Graduate School awards a small number of research travel grants. These grants are for travel that is directly related to thesis research, not conference travel. Recipients must be enrolled in a graduate research program at the time of the award. For details and deadlines, visit the Travel Funding Opportunities.

The Einaudi Center for International Research also offers research and travel grants. 

Funding Administration:

• The Cornell Graduate School's stipend rates can be found here. 
• Stipends:
  • Fellowship stipends are paid through the bursar system and appear as refunds on student accounts in lump-sum payments near the beginning of the semester.
    • Direct deposit for fellowship stipends and bursar payments
  • Assistantship stipends are paid through the Cornell payroll system (Workday) on a semi-monthly basis.
    • Direct deposit for assistantship stipends processed through Workday
• Student Health Plan and Tuition: Details on the Cornell Student Health Plan (SHP) and tuition rates can be found on their respective webpages.

Assistantship and Fellowship Details and Policies:

• The University Policy 1.3 Graduate Student Assistantships outlines Assistantship definitions, responsibilities, and procedures. 
• In Absentia policy vs. Leaves of Absence
• Research Assistantships (RAs): perform non-thesis/dissertation research on a faculty’s research project.
• Graduate Research Assistantships (GRAs): GRAs perform research directly related to their thesis or dissertation.
• Teaching Assistantships (TAs): TAs assist faculty with course instruction. Positions are awarded by the Department Chair and Director of Graduate Studies based on faculty needs. Students interested in TAs should discuss options with their special committee chair (also known as faculty advisor or committee chair).

Financial support and Fellowships:

For comprehensive information on financial support, funding categories, and application procedures, please refer to the Graduate School website and the relevant funding application pages:

Graduate School Financial Support

New Graduate Student Fellowships

Continuing Graduate Student Fellowships

Financial Supplementation of External Fellowships

National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program

This handbook has been prepared for the use of Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) students and faculty in Natural Resources and the Environment and should be read in conjunction with the CALS Professional Master’s Degree Programs Student Handbook, which governs the Cornell CALS M.P.S. degree program. 

Students engage with a cross-disciplinary group of scholars committed to addressing environmental, natural resources, and climate problems. About two-thirds of our field faculty are in the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, with the remainder from fields such as veterinary wildlife, resource economics, international sustainable development, and more. We strive to create a community where biological, physical, and social scientists work together to address the pressing issues facing our planet and society. The Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) in Natural Resources and the Environment is a one-year, STEM-designated, course-based master’s degree program ideal for career-focused students interested in issues and advancements in environmental management, conservation biology, sustainable systems, water resource management, forest ecology, and related fields.

Although similar to a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in its academic rigor, the M.P.S. degree differs from a traditional M.S. degree in its structure and focus. The M.P.S. program is designed as a one-year course-based curriculum aimed at deepening knowledge and skills in a specific area of concentration. Instead of a thesis or research project, M.P.S. students complete a capstone project, which provides an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills practically. To understand this difference in greater detail, please visit the FAQ page.

A key feature of the M.P.S. program is its balanced curriculum, which integrates technical knowledge, analytical skills, and professional development. This comprehensive approach equips students with the expertise required for careers in industry, government, or non-profit sectors.

The Natural Resources and the Environment program has two main components:

• Coursework: Students collaborate with a faculty advisor to create a personalized course of study aligned with their interests, completing a minimum of 30 credit hours related to their concentration. While 20 credit hours must be earned within CALS, there is flexibility to take courses across Cornell University.
• Capstone project: This project may involve creating an action program, developing a plan to address a relevant problem, designing materials or methodologies suited to the student's situation, or conducting research pertinent to the profession. A formal project report must be submitted to and approved by the student’s faculty advisor.

The M.P.S. degree is designed for professionals in fields such as non-profits, government, and business, who seek to enhance their skills and knowledge through advanced coursework rather than research. It is typically pursued by individuals already employed in a professional capacity who aim to advance in their field. For more information about the Master of Professional Studies, please visit the CALS M.P.S. website.

Admissions and Deadlines: The Graduate Field of Natural Resources and the Environment has a rolling admissions policy for students starting in the Fall semester. While most students begin in the Fall, Spring admissions are also considered. Most admissions decisions are made by early February.

Admissions Criteria: 

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a passion for the importance of gathering and analyzing data to make strategic decisions, competency in university-level science coursework, and an interest in applying knowledge gained in a professional career.

• Bachelor's degree
• Strong Academic Statement of Purpose from the prospective student clearly expressing the rationale for pursuing a professional degree, including an outline of their desired professional trajectory, an articulation of their learning objectives, how they would achieve these objectives through the program, and how they would benefit by an M.P.S. degree. Review the Graduate School’s Academic Statement of Purpose information here. 
• The Personal Statement should provide the admissions committee with a sense of you as a whole person, and you should use it to describe how your personal background and experiences influenced your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Additionally, it should provide insights into your potential to contribute to Cornell University’s core value to provide a community of inclusion, belonging, and respect where scholars representing diverse backgrounds, perspectives, abilities, and experiences can learn and work productively and positively together. Review the Graduate School’s Personal Statement prompts here. 
• Three strong letters of recommendation reflecting both academic and professional potential
• Curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé
• Admitted applicants generally meet one of the two following criteria:
  • GPA ≥3.5 with evidence of strong foundational coursework and a demonstrated ability to succeed in Cornell courses
  • ≥ 3 years of continuous professional experience in a related professional field with evidence of strong potential to succeed in a natural-resources-oriented field
• International student requirements:
  • Students must meet either TOEFL or IELTS minimum requirements. Our field follows the Cornell Graduate School English Language Proficiency requirements.

To be officially considered for admission you must submit your formal application to the Graduate School.

The Field of Natural Resources and the Environment does not require the GRE or GMAT.

Focused on the latest advancements in social and ecological dimensions of natural resources, the M.P.S. concentrations emphasize improvements that promote human health and well-being and advance environmental sustainability. Currently, Natural Resources and the Environment has only one subject, i.e., Natural Resources and the Environment, and ten concentrations: 

• Environmental Management
• Water Resource Management
• Conservation Social Science and Decision Making
• Sustainable Systems
• Forest Ecology and Management
• Conservation Biology
• Quantitative Ecology
• Community-Based Conservation and Management
• Wildlife Ecology and Management
• Fishery and Aquatic Science

Sample course courses and concentration courses. 

M.P.S. candidates in Natural Resources and the Environment are expected to demonstrate mastery of knowledge in an environmental, natural resources, and/or climate field.

M.P.S. Degree Proficiencies: 

• Problem-solving and Analytical Skills
• Specialized Subject Matter Competence
• Writing Skills
• Group Work, Management and Leadership Skills
• Communication and Presentation Skills

Graduate Field: At Cornell University, graduate study is organized into a field structure. Fields consist of faculty members from various departments who unite around shared intellectual interests, and who come from multiple campuses or colleges. Graduate students are admitted to these fields of study, which can encompass multiple departments and disciplines.

Graduate Field Assistants (GFAs): Graduate Field Assistants (GFAs) support students, faculty advisors, and the Director of Graduate Studies. They act as liaisons between students and faculty, offering guidance on campus resources and answering questions about the degree process.

Natural Resources and the Environment GFA:

• Crystal Brown
• Email: cb942 [at] cornell.edu (cb942[at]cornell[dot]edu)

Faculty Advisor: Each student selects or is assigned a faculty advisor. The faculty advisor’s role is to support the student, provide guidance on course selection, and lead the student in the development and completion of the M.P.S. project. Students may request a change of advisor during their program.

CALS Office of Professional Programs: The Office of Professional Programs (OPPEL) is dedicated to delivering an exceptional experience for the CALS Professional Master’s community, including students in the Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.), Master of Food Science (M.F.S.), Master of Landscape Architecture (M.L.A.), and Biological and Environmental Engineering – Master of Engineering (BEE-MEng) programs.

OPPEL provides comprehensive student and career services support and resources. Throughout the academic year, they hold events, workshops, alumni panels, and a professional skills course to enhance each student’s Cornell CALS experience. 

CALS Office of Professional Programs Location: 

• 211 and 212 Kennedy Hall
• Student Collaboration Space: 211 Kennedy Hall. All CALS professional master’s students can access the collaboration space using their Cornell ID card.

CALS Office of Professional Programs Staff: 

• Ann LaFave, Assistant Dean of Academic Programs & Student Success (607) 255-2257, aml25 [at] cornell.edu (aml25[at]cornell[dot]edu) 
• Soledad Almeida, Director of Program Development and Enrollment, 607-255-1572, sa2242 [at] cornell.edu (sa2242[at]cornell[dot]edu) 
• Erika Fowler-Decatur, Director of Current Programs and Student Services, 607-255-9649, ef48 [at] cornell.edu (ef48[at]cornell[dot]edu) 
• Marjorie Mosereiff, Employer Relations & Career Services Manager, 607-255-0689, mm2478 [at] cornell.edu (mm2478[at]cornell[dot]edu) 
• Jo-Lynn Buchanan, OPPEL Asst. Registrar, 607-255-9858, jb44 [at] cornell.edu (jb44[at]cornell[dot]edu) 

Registration: 

All students are required to be registered during each semester of the degree program until the degree is conferred. Any interruption of continuous registration is considered a withdrawal. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure proper registration at all times. International students should contact the International Students and Scholars Office if they have any questions about maintaining their student visa status. Please note that full-time students are limited to 20 hours of combined assistantships, hourly student appointments, and/or outside employment per week. 

Academic Standing Policy 

To remain in good academic standing, a student must: 

• maintain a cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher 

• satisfactorily complete 12 or more academic credits per Fall/Spring semester 

• demonstrate satisfactory progress toward completion of College and field requirements 

Procedure: 

Each semester, the Office of Professional Programs will review the records of students who are not in good academic standing or whose semester GPA is below 2.5 and may consult with the CALS Professional Master’s Academic Committee to determine appropriate action. Actions include but are not limited to: 

• Issuing a warning to alert the student that they are not currently in good academic standing or that their semester GPA is below 2.5 and offering support for improving academic performance. (Warnings will not appear on the student’s transcript; however, if the University receives a valid external request for verification of good academic standing, the appropriate information will be reported.) 
• Granting a student-requested leave of absence or placing the student on a mandatory leave of absence. 
• The College retains the right to establish conditions that must be met before a student may return from a leave of absence. The CALS Professional Master’s Academic Committee may place academic conditions on the return from either a voluntary or mandatory leave based on curriculum sequencing and/or additional required academic actions determined and communicated to the student by or at the end of the term prior to their leave. 
• Carrying out an academic withdrawal of the student from the degree program. 
• If the CALS Professional Master’s Academic Committee determines that a student is failing to make satisfactory progress toward the degree based on their cumulative GPA, GPA for the most recent semester(s), and/or grades in field-required courses, the student may be withdrawn from the program without the option to return. 

CALS Professional Master’s Academic Committee Constituents:

Sarah Giroux, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Strategic Programs Erika Fowler-Decatur, Director of Student Services and Current Programs, OPPEL Jo-Lynn Buchanan, Assistant Registrar, OPPEL Director of Graduate Studies (for student’s field of study), Student’s Faculty Advisor

The Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.)  is a professional non-thesis degree. The M.P.S. degree is required to be completed in a minimum of two semesters and must be completed within 4 years of admission. Students must earn a minimum GPA of 2.5.

Coursework: 

Satisfactory completion of a minimum of 30 credit hours related to the candidate's professional interest, as agreed upon with the faculty advisor. 

• Twenty credit hours must be taken within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and at least 30 credits must be in graduate-level courses (5000-level and higher). 
• A minimum of 18 credit hours with letter grades.
• A maximum of 6 of the required 30 credit hours may be earned through the student's problem-solving project.

Completion of a minimum of two full-time semesters. Full-time enrollment is equivalent to at least 12 academic credits. 

Satisfactory completion of a problem-solving project under the supervision of the faculty advisor. This project may be an action program, the development of a plan to address a pertinent problem, the development of materials or methodology suited to the student's situation, or the development and execution of research appropriate to the profession. A formal project report must be submitted to and approved by the candidate's faculty advisor. 

A minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 

Specific courses may be required by individual fields; check with the field for details. 

Completion of the degree within four years of admission. 

Academic Plan: 

Every student, under the guidance of the faculty advisor, will review and outline their courses for each semester using the academic course plan for their degree program. Academic Plan sheets are available in Canvas. All coursework should be documented on the sheet and updated with any changes. A minimum of one curriculum planning meeting between student and advisor should take place per academic year, typically at the beginning of the fall semester. 

Faculty Advisor Selection: 

Every student must have a faculty advisor. Your faculty advisor will be assigned to you by your GFA (Graduate Field Assistant), please be sure to sign up for ALS 5900 and 5910 under your advisor’s section.

Advising Guide for Professional Students

The Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.)  is a professional non-thesis degree. The M.P.S. degree is required to be completed in a minimum of two semesters and must be completed within 4 years of admission. Students must earn a minimum GPA of 2.5.

The student will prepare and submit an M.P.S. project report under the supervision of their faculty advisor. The content of the project will be pertinent to the subject matter of the student’s major area of concentration or specialization. Early in their first semester on campus, the student will work with their advisor to define the project opportunity. This may be the execution of a professional action program designed under the guidance of the faculty advisor; the development of a professional plan or solution to a pertinent problem; the development of professional materials; or the development and execution of a research project. 

The student and faculty advisor determine the content and length of the final paper or project report. The student and the faculty advisor will determine the total number of credits to be obtained for work on the M.P.S. project based on the expected project duration. The student will enroll in the M.P.S. project course each semester for the determined amount of credits, for a maximum of six credit hours for satisfactory completion of the project. 

Satisfactory progress and project completion are determined by the student’s advisor. Project completion is a mandatory requirement for graduation from the M.P.S. program. 

Capstone Project Courses 

For any semester of study: enroll in ALS 5900 Project Development 

For the last semester of study: enroll in ALS 5910 Project Completion 

ALS 5900: Project Development (Variable credits per student not to exceed 5 credits total). Students enroll in this course when they are working on their project. ALS 5900 is a graded course (not eligible for S/U). 

ALS 5910: Project Completion (1 credit required for all CALS M.P.S. students to complete their degree). Students enroll in the semester they intend to complete their project. Students can be enrolled in ALS 5900 and ALS 5910 simultaneously. ALS 5910 is a graded course (not eligible for S/U). 

To accommodate the needs across the CALS graduate fields participating in the expanding M.P.S. programs, both courses will be offered in fall, spring, and summer terms. Project work is evolving as the degree programs are growing, and in certain fields of study, students will be actively working on their projects over the summer. For this reason, project credits earned during the summer term will be non-tuition bearing. 

Up to 6 credits from the Project Courses (ALS 5900 and ALS 5910) will be counted towards the 30 credit degree requirement. Please be sure to select the course section corresponding to your advisor. 

Project enrollment examples by semester are detailed below: 

Spring 2021 expected graduation date: 

• Fall 2021 – enrolled in 3 credits of project work (ALS 5900) 

• Spring 2022 – enroll in ALS 5900 = 2 credits and ALS 5910 = 1 credit 

Summer 2022 expected graduation date: 

• Fall 2021 – enrolled in 2 credit of project work (ALS 5900) 

• Spring 2022 – enroll in ALS 5900 = 3 credits 

• Summer 2022 – enroll in ALS 5910 = 1 credit 

Capstone project best practices: 

• The number of credits enrolled in for M.P.S. project development course should accurately reflect the amount of work expected to be completed in the semester. University standard is 2 hours and 40 minutes per week of work equates to 1 course credit. Based on the project completion schedule, the advisor and/or DGS will help guide the student’s enrollment. 

• The grade awarded at the end of the semester in the M.P.S. project development course accurately reflects the work completed in the semester. 

• The M.P.S. project can be a smaller portion of the faculty advisor’s current research or a unique project tailored to the individual student. 

• A clear M.P.S. project completion plan is established between the faculty advisor and student by the end of the first semester. 

• Clear expectations of the faculty advisor are shared at the beginning of the first semester, and regular check-in meetings are set up to support successful completion. 

Advising Guide for Professional Students

M.P.S. degree students in the Graduate Field of Natural Resources and the Environment (NRE) are self-funded, usually with federal and/or private loans. 

Read more about loans and funding for graduate school

For comprehensive information on financial support, funding categories, and application procedures, please refer to the Graduate School Financial Support website.

Degrees are conferred annually in May, August, and December.

Applying to Graduate: 

It is the responsibility of the graduating student to complete an Application to Graduate. Completing the Application to Graduate notifies the CALS Office of Professional Program Student Services to initiate a review of the degree requirements met. 

During the semester in which you’re expected to graduate, you will receive an emailed invitation to complete and submit the Application to Graduate online. For specific dates by semester, refer to the “Important Dates” for the semester. 

M.P.S. Capstone Project Submission Process: 

The student will work with the faculty advisor on the completion of the capstone project and receive final approval from the faculty advisor. 

The student will submit the following to the Office of Professional Programs before the submission deadline (for specific dates by semester, refer to the “Important Dates” module in Canvas): 

• Capstone project (PDF) 
• Certification of Capstone Project Completion form (a link to this form is emailed during the semester in which the student is expected to graduate) 
• eCommons FERPA Release Form 

The capstone project will be retained on the Cornell eCommons digital repository. Due to eCommons being an online source, all project papers must be checked for accessibility. Students should run an accessibility checker on the PDF file and fix all issues before submitting the file. The project will be available on the website approximately two weeks after degree conferral. 

Project Formatting Guidelines: 

All completed M.P.S. projects are submitted to Cornell University’s eCommons digital repository for long-term storage and access. Cornell University has a policy on Web Accessibility Standards to ensure that all users have fair and equivalent access to eCommons content. All M.P.S. projects must be made accessible according to the standards and practices outlined by eCommons. Specific details can be found here. 

Grammar, punctuation, spelling and other mechanical issues are the sole responsibility of the student. 

Commencement: 

Cornell Commencement takes place each academic year in late May. Every candidate, regardless of fall/spring/summer semester graduation date, is invited to participate in the May Commencement ceremony. A separate Recognition Event takes place in December for fall semester graduates. Please see the Cornell University Commencement website for more information. Diplomas will be printed with the name exactly as it appears on the official records and sent via postal mail. It is the student’s responsibility to verify their name and home address are correct in Student Essentials. This will ensure mailing to the correct address.

OPT allows an extension of F-1 student status for those who have completed at least two academic semesters in the United States in F-1 status. It allows students to apply what they have learned in their degree program to off-campus work in the United States in their field of study. Students can receive at least 12 months of full-time OPT when they complete a degree program and must apply for OPT no more than 90 days before finishing their degree. 

Students enrolled in professional degree programs recognized by the federal government as STEM-designated (Animal Science, Food Science, Integrative Plant Science, Landscape Architecture, and Natural Resources and the Environment), can apply for a STEM extension of their F-1 OPT. The extension allows them to work in the United States for an additional 24 months.

For additional information or questions about OPT, please contact the Office of Global Learning.

Advising: A full-time staff member is dedicated to providing professional development and career guidance to all Professional Master’s students in CALS. To assist you in the post-grad transition, the Employer Relations and Career Services Manager organizes workshops, events, and teaches a career readiness course. Whether the transition to the workforce involves an internship or full-time job placement support, students receive customized, one-on-one advising for resume reviews, practice interviews, target employer networking strategies, and much more. 

A variety of career events will be offered throughout each semester, including alumni networking events, panels, and career-focused workshops focusing on the many aspects of effective job search strategies. 

ALS 5211: Career Readiness for CALS Professional Master’s Students 

A one-credit, seven-week course for all CALS professional master’s students. In the course, students receive engaging and interactive assistance in best practices for creating an effective career readiness plan. Students practice networking, learn to decipher a job description, prepare interview materials, and develop a thorough understanding of how to leverage the Cornell network as well as various internal and external resources.