CORNELL UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
SIPS MS/PhD Graduate Fields & MPS in Plant Science
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 5 MS/PhD Graduate FieldsFields of Study
- 1-year MPS programDegree Options
- Interdisciplinary focusApproach
- Research-driven MS/PhDProgram Style
- Course-based MPSProgram Style
Cornell University offers graduate study in Integrative Plant Science through its School of Integrative Plant Science (SIPS). You can pursue either an MS/PhD through one of five specialized Graduate Fields, or a one-year, course-based Master of Professional Studies (MPS) degree. The MS/PhD programs involve coursework and original research, culminating in a thesis. The MPS degree is designed for in-depth study of current issues and advancements in plant and soil sciences. Graduate Fields allow interdisciplinary study, drawing faculty from various departments and colleges around shared intellectual interests. You will be admitted to a specific field and then select research interests within it. The five MS/PhD fields are Horticulture, Plant Biology, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology & Plant-Microbe Biology, and Soil & Crop Sciences. The MPS program offers concentrations such as Controlled Environment Agriculture, Geospatial Applications, Soil Science, Agronomy, Hemp Science, and Public Garden Leadership.
Frequently asked questions
- What degree options are available in Integrative Plant Science at Cornell?
- Cornell University offers graduate study in Integrative Plant Science through either an MS/PhD program across five specialized fields or a one-year, course-based Master of Professional Studies (MPS) degree.
- What are the MS/PhD fields of study?
- The five MS/PhD fields are Horticulture, Plant Biology, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology & Plant-Microbe Biology, and Soil & Crop Sciences.
- What are the concentrations for the MPS program?
- The MPS program offers concentrations such as Controlled Environment Agriculture, Geospatial Applications, Soil Science, Agronomy, Hemp Science, and Public Garden Leadership.
- What are the English proficiency requirements?
- For TOEFL, the minimum score is 100 (taken prior to Jan 2026) or 5.0 (taken Jan 2026 or later). IELTS requires a minimum of 7.5, Duolingo a minimum of 130, and Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency a minimum of 191.
- Is funding available for international MS/PhD students?
- Funding for MS/PhD students is very limited. Prospective students are strongly advised to contact individual faculty members within their chosen field to confirm funding availability before applying. International admissions are need-aware.
- When are the application deadlines?
- The application deadline for MS/PhD programs is November 1, and for the MPS program it is January 15. Supplemental materials for November 1 applications are due November 14.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate degreeA strong background in life sciences is important, as evidenced by grades and coursework.
TOEFL (taken prior to Jan 2026)minimum 100
TOEFL (taken Jan 2026 or later)minimum 5.0, recommended 5.5
IELTSminimum 7.5
Duolingominimum 130
Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiencyminimum 191
English proficiency can also be demonstrated if you are a U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident, English is your native language, or English has been the primary language of instruction throughout your secondary school career. Applicants whose permanent resident status is pending are considered international students. Undocumented students with or without DACA status are considered domestic students. Applicants who have enrolled full-time at another institution must apply as a transfer student.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please contact the Graduate Field Coordinator for the specific program of interest for information on tuition and funding. International admissions are need-aware, meaning ability to pay is considered. Financial aid is need-based only.
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Funding for MS/PhD students is very limited. Prospective students are strongly advised to contact individual faculty members within their chosen field to confirm funding availability before applying.
How to apply
1. Choose Your ProgramDecide whether the MS/PhD (within one of the five fields) or the MPS program is the right fit for your academic and career goals.
2. Contact Faculty (MS/PhD)For MS/PhD programs, contact faculty members whose research aligns with your interests. Inquire about their current research projects and if they have funding for new students. This is crucial as funding is limited.
3. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts, academic records, and English proficiency test scores (if applicable).
4. Submit ApplicationSubmit your application through the Cornell University Graduate School online portal. Ensure you select the correct Graduate Field or MPS concentration.
5. Pay Application FeeSubmit the application fee or a waiver, if eligible.
6. Apply for Financial Aid (if needed)International applicants seeking financial aid must apply for need-based aid by completing the CSS Profile by the specified deadline.
Frequently asked questions
What degree options are available in Integrative Plant Science at Cornell?
+
Cornell University offers graduate study in Integrative Plant Science through either an MS/PhD program across five specialized fields or a one-year, course-based Master of Professional Studies (MPS) degree.
What are the MS/PhD fields of study?
+
The five MS/PhD fields are Horticulture, Plant Biology, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology & Plant-Microbe Biology, and Soil & Crop Sciences.
What are the concentrations for the MPS program?
+
The MPS program offers concentrations such as Controlled Environment Agriculture, Geospatial Applications, Soil Science, Agronomy, Hemp Science, and Public Garden Leadership.
What are the English proficiency requirements?
+
For TOEFL, the minimum score is 100 (taken prior to Jan 2026) or 5.0 (taken Jan 2026 or later). IELTS requires a minimum of 7.5, Duolingo a minimum of 130, and Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency a minimum of 191.
Is funding available for international MS/PhD students?
+
Funding for MS/PhD students is very limited. Prospective students are strongly advised to contact individual faculty members within their chosen field to confirm funding availability before applying. International admissions are need-aware.
When are the application deadlines?
+
The application deadline for MS/PhD programs is November 1, and for the MPS program it is January 15. Supplemental materials for November 1 applications are due November 14.