Integrative Plant Science
The Integrative Plant Science Master of Studies program at Cornell University provides a multidisciplinary and research informed academic environment for students who want to explore plant biology from molecular processes to ecosystem level interactions. The curriculum blends plant genetics, physiology, development, ecology, and biotechnology, allowing learners to examine how plants respond to environmental conditions, how traits are shaped, and how plant systems influence global food security, biodiversity, and environmental stability. With a strong emphasis on plant systems, students build the analytical and scientific skills needed to investigate biological mechanisms, evaluate environmental influences, and design solutions that support resilient and sustainable plant production. This integrated structure allows learners to navigate plant science from multiple perspectives, strengthening their foundational understanding of plant function and adaptation.
Throughout this one year program, students engage with faculty who conduct leading research in plant–environment interactions, crop improvement, genomics, bioinformatics, and environmental sustainability. Through laboratory work, field studies, and data driven research, students develop technical competence in biological analysis, experimental design, and plant evaluation methods. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration across plant science, agriculture, and environmental biology, enabling learners to connect scientific discovery with practical applications in crop systems, ecological management, and sustainable development. This combination of scientific depth and applied perspective prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to advancing plant science knowledge and addressing agricultural and environmental challenges.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Integrative Plant Science
- Degree Type: Master of Studies
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Natural Sciences
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Foundations of Integrative Plant Biology
• Plant Physiology and Environmental Response
• Research Methods in Plant Sciences
• Elective in Genetics, Ecology, or Biotechnology
Semester 2
• Plant Development and Adaptation
• Applied Plant Science Research Project
• Data Analysis in Biological Systems
• Elective in Crop Science, Sustainability, or Molecular Biology
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue careers across plant science, agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental fields, frequently joining plant research institutions, sustainable agriculture organizations, biotechnology companies, and environmental consulting groups. With strong scientific training and applied analytical skills, they contribute to research projects, crop improvement initiatives, ecological assessments, and plant system evaluations. Their multidisciplinary preparation enables them to participate in lab and field research, support data driven agricultural decisions, and contribute to programs focused on plant resilience, food system sustainability, and environmental health across both public and private sectors.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students seeking a broad, scientifically grounded understanding of plant biology, offering opportunities to develop advanced plant insight and strong analytical capability supported by Cornell’s distinguished plant science faculty. Through interdisciplinary coursework, research guided study, and hands on experimentation, learners gain the tools to analyze plant behavior, evaluate environmental interactions, and design strategies that improve plant performance and sustainability. Its focused one year structure supports efficient scientific development and prepares graduates for impactful roles in plant research, agricultural innovation, and environmental management.
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
