The Human Ecology Master of Studies program at Cornell University provides a multidisciplinary and research grounded environment for students who want to understand how human behavior, ecological systems, and social structures interact to shape environmental and societal outcomes. The curriculum blends ecological science, social analysis, policy studies, and community based research, enabling learners to explore how human actions influence biodiversity, environmental resilience, and sustainability. With a strong emphasis on human–environment dynamics, the program helps students develop analytical and conceptual tools to interpret ecological change, evaluate human impacts, and design strategies that support sustainable development. This integrated approach encourages learners to connect scientific inquiry with social context, strengthening their ability to analyze complex environmental relationships.
Throughout this one year program, students engage with faculty who conduct leading research in conservation, population studies, environmental behavior, public health, and ecological governance. Through seminars, applied projects, and interdisciplinary collaboration, learners expand their ability to analyze ecological data, assess community needs, and understand decision making processes related to conservation and resource use. Hands on research and data driven study strengthen students’ competence in ecological assessment, sustainability analysis, and policy interpretation, enabling them to bridge scientific understanding with practical solutions. This balance of conceptual depth and applied perspective prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to environmental research, community development, and biodiversity protection efforts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Human Ecology
- Degree Type: Master of Studies
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 December 2025
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Biodiversity & Conservation
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Foundations of Human Ecology
• Environmental Systems and Biodiversity
• Research Methods in Ecology and Society
• Elective in Conservation, Policy, or Public Health
Semester 2
• Human–Environment Interactions
• Applied Ecology and Sustainability Project
• Environmental Data and Social Analysis
• Elective in Community Development, Global Environment, or Ecological Policy
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue meaningful roles across environmental, social, and research oriented fields, frequently joining conservation organizations, environmental policy groups, community development agencies, and nonprofit research institutions. Their strong preparation in ecological analysis, social interpretation, and sustainability assessment enables them to contribute to biodiversity monitoring, environmental planning, community engagement, and research projects that address the relationships between people and natural systems. With interdisciplinary training, they support programs involving ecological restoration, environmental education, policy evaluation, and sustainable development across both public and private sectors.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students who want to integrate ecological science with human centered understanding, offering opportunities to develop strong sustainability insight and advanced analytical capability supported by Cornell’s interdisciplinary strengths in human ecology. Through research guided study, applied projects, and cross disciplinary exploration, learners gain the skills to evaluate human impacts, design community oriented strategies, and support biodiversity and environmental health. Its focused one year structure ensures efficient, meaningful academic development and prepares graduates for impactful roles in conservation, environmental research, and community based sustainability initiatives.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
