Plant Breeding
The Plant Breeding Master of Science program at Cornell University provides a scientifically rich and research oriented learning environment for students who want to understand how genetic variation, environmental interactions, and breeding strategies shape the development of improved crop varieties. The curriculum integrates molecular genetics, quantitative analysis, biotechnology, and field based crop evaluation, allowing learners to explore how desirable traits are identified, enhanced, and stabilized through targeted breeding methods. With a strong emphasis on trait improvement, the program equips students with a solid understanding of plant biology, statistical modeling, and breeding systems required to address agricultural challenges related to yield, resilience, and quality. This structure supports a deep scientific perspective on modern breeding approaches and their application in sustainable food production.
Throughout this one year program, students engage directly with faculty whose expertise spans crop genetics, molecular breeding, bioinformatics, functional genomics, and sustainable agriculture. Through laboratory research, controlled experiments, and field observations, learners build a strong foundation in genetic evaluation, experimental design, and data driven interpretation. The academic environment encourages interdisciplinary study that links molecular tools with agronomic insight, enabling students to analyze plant traits from both biological and environmental viewpoints. This combination of scientific depth and applied research experience prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to crop improvement initiatives, agricultural innovation, and research programs focused on meeting global food system demands.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Plant Breeding
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 03 January 2026
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Horticulture and Crop Science
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Principles of Plant Breeding
• Genetics and Molecular Tools for Crop Improvement
• Research Techniques in Plant Biology
• Elective in Genomics, Biotechnology, or Crop Physiology
Semester 2
• Advanced Breeding Strategies and Trait Selection
• Applied Plant Breeding Research Project
• Statistical Analysis for Biological Systems
• Elective in Bioinformatics, Agronomy, or Environmental Systems
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue careers across agricultural science, research, and biotechnology, frequently joining seed development companies, crop research institutions, biotechnology organizations, and agricultural improvement programs. Their strong preparation in genetics, data analysis, and scientific evaluation allows them to contribute to breeding strategy development, field testing, trait selection, laboratory research, and crop performance assessment. With interdisciplinary training and applied scientific skills, they support projects aimed at improving crop resilience, enhancing food production, and advancing sustainable agricultural systems.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students who want to combine scientific research with practical agricultural innovation, offering opportunities to develop advanced breeding expertise and strong analytical capability supported by Cornell’s leadership in plant science. Through research based study, field engagement, and interdisciplinary coursework, learners gain the tools to evaluate plant traits, design improvement strategies, and contribute to solutions that strengthen global agriculture. Its focused one year format ensures efficient, rigorous scientific preparation and positions graduates for meaningful roles in crop development, biotechnology, and plant research.
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
