Cornell University Registrar

Overview

The College of Human Ecology advances and improves human experience by examining how individuals interact with their biological, social, economic, and physical environments. Through multidisciplinary programs in Nutritional Sciences; Human Development; Design and Environmental Analysis; Fiber Science & Apparel Design; and Fashion Design Management, the College anticipates and responds to complex human needs in a rapidly changing world.

Human Ecology integrates education, basic and applied research, and the extension of knowledge to address contemporary societal challenges with a preventive, solutions-oriented approach. Distinguished by the strength of its scholarship in the natural and social sciences and the design arts, the College fosters collaboration across Cornell’s academic community and maintains a strong global perspective throughout its programs.

Faculty and students explore the relationships among individuals, families, workplaces, neighborhoods, and broader communities, balancing theory with real-world application. This integration cultivates creative problem-solving, leadership development, and a commitment to diverse populations. Graduates are prepared to anticipate, analyze, and address critical human challenges, pursuing careers or advanced study in fields such as health, business, public policy, law, design, public service, and research.

The following sections outline the academic structure, advising resources, and opportunities available to Human Ecology students.

Website: human.cornell.edu

General Information

Administration

• Rachel Dunifon, Dean 
• Marianella Casasola, Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Affairs 
• Nancy Wells, Senior Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Education
• Anthony Burrow, Senior Associate Dean for Outreach and Extension
• Tashara Leak, Associate Dean of Cornell Human Ecology in New York City
• Craig Higgins, Associate Dean for Administration
• Kim Pietro, Assistant Dean for Alumni Affairs and Development
• Robin Rodger, Assistant Dean for Communications
• Marcia Easley, Assistant Dean for Human Resources
• Andrea Poag, Assistant Dean for Student Experience  
• Kerri Alexander, Assistant Dean for Social Justice Impact
• Kristine Mahoney, Assistant Dean for Centers and Institutes
• Michelle Lyon, Director of Budget and Finance
• Eric Nichols, Director of Facilities
• Randi Rainbow, Director of Information Technology
• Bernadette Parr, Director of Admission
• Julie McGee, College Registrar

Human Ecology Office of Student Services

The Human Ecology Office of Student Services houses multiple offices that collaborate together to support students. The goal of Student Services is to enable students to thrive academically, personally, and professionally while contributing to our vibrant Human Ecology community. Student Services includes Advisors from Student and Career Development Team, the Office of the Registrar, and the Office of Admissions.

Student and Career Development Team

Advising is a purposeful and evolving process that helps students define, clarify, and work toward their educational and personal goals. College Advisors in the Student and Career Development Team support students through a range of academic and personal circumstances that may affect their overall well-being. Advisors provide guidance on degree requirements, course planning, study abroad, and off‑campus coursework, and collaborate with students as they explore career interests and pathways, often integrating these discussions into academic advising meetings.

Office of the Registrar

The College Registrar, which is part of the Office of Student Services, maintains students' official academic records, including the audit of progress toward the degree. The College Registrar also provides services such as correcting student records, approving the transfer of credit from other institutions, reviewing all petitions, and upholding the policies of the College, Cornell, and SUNY.

Human Ecology Office of Admissions

Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS)

Each department within Human Ecology (Nutritional Sciences, Human-Centered Design, Human Development) has a faculty member designated as the Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS). The DUS can be a helpful resource and connection point for students in thinking through their degree, course planning, and more.  

Facilities

Comprehensive and up-to-date information regarding College facilities can be found on the College website.

Health Professional Advising Center

Cornell’s Health Professions Advising Center (HPAC) is centralized advising support specifically for students interested in Pre-Health. HPAC provides resources to the student and alumni community through enhanced support and innovative ways to help students make informed decisions about their future. 

Faculty Connections

Faculty help students explore the intersection of their educational and career interests through networking, career opportunities, alumni links, letters of recommendation, graduate school applications and more. Students can build relationships with faculty through courses, research opportunities, or initiating outreach to discuss their future interests.  

Career Exploration Center (CEC)

Supervised by the Office of Student and Career Development, the Career Exploration Center (CEC) is a student-led organization that supports career exploration and professional development for undergraduate students in the College of Human Ecology. The CEC offers walk-in resume reviews, cover letter critiques, practice interviews, career advice, career readiness workshops, and more. 

Human Ecology Peer Partnership Program 

The Peer Partnership program supports incoming students' personal growth and academic success by facilitating relationships and the sharing of information among new students, upper-class students, and faculty. For more information, contact the Office of Student and Career Development. 

The Human Ecology Alumni Association Student Grants 

Students in the College can apply for these competitive grants to further their academic interests through independent research, community outreach, conference travel, and limited summer study related to career preparation/professional development. Grant applications are available on the College website. 

Academic, Leadership, and Engagement Awards

Each year, Cornell Human Ecology honors students for their remarkable achievements in academics, leadership and engagement. These awards celebrate student leaders who are creating positive social change through research and outreach, creativity, communication, service, and partnering with others. For more information visit Student Grants, Awards + Stipends.

International Students

The International Services Office of Global Learning (300 Caldwell Hall, (607) 255-5243) provides a broad range of services to international students. All international students should maintain contact with the International Services Office. College Advisors in Student and Career Development are also available for assistance and support.  

Departments

• Human Centered Design
• Nutritional Sciences
• Psychology (Human Development)

Special Academic Opportunities

Honors Programs

Students interested in College Honors programs that lead to the degree “bachelor of science with honors” usually apply to the appropriate honors committee no later than the end of the first semester of their junior year. Each major has a minimum GPA requirement and demonstrated potential for honors-level research. Students take approved courses in research methodology and evaluation, attend honors seminars, complete a written thesis, and defend it in an oral examination. Students who are interested in the honors program should contact the director of undergraduate studies in their department or division for information and guidelines. For additional information regarding university-wide honors requirements and policies, please refer to Cornell University’s Honors Policy.

Minors

Students may pursue a minor in any department, in any College, where a minor is offered, subject to restrictions established by the department offering the minor and/or the student’s major. Successful completion of a minor will be recorded on the student’s official transcript. Because minors are not available in all departments, students should consult the relevant section of this catalog or contact the appropriate department for specific information regarding minor requirements and application procedures.

3 + 3 BS/JD

This pathway allows Cornell undergraduate students to spend their final semester of undergraduate study at Cornell Law School before graduating in December. This accelerated program allows participants to receive both a bachelor's and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree in six years.

For more information and inquiries, please see the Law School's catalog page or contact JD Admissions at jdadmissions@cornell.edu or (607) 255-5141.

Independent Research

Research opportunities for undergraduates are extensive and valued as an important part of the learning experience. The opportunity to engage in substantive research with some of the leading scientists in their fields is so compelling that approximately half of the College’s undergraduates conduct research projects. Students may become involved in research with the guidance of faculty members by conducting research assigned in a class, joining a faculty member’s research group, completing an independent study research project, or carrying out an honors program project.

For further information, students should contact individual faculty members or the director of undergraduate studies in their department. Students are also encouraged to review the Special Studies Courses section under 'Course Enrollment' for additional information regarding independent study and research course options.

Field Study and Internships

Field study and internships provide experiential learning opportunities in real-life circumstances where classroom knowledge is tested and applied. Students are able to master new skills, develop and implement plans of action, solve problems, interact in multicultural situations, and build networks for future job opportunities. By applying techniques of research methods, critical thinking, and self-directed learning, students learn to think conceptually while becoming agents of change.

Check with the director of undergraduate studies for major-specific information. The Student and Career Development Office and Cornell Career Development Office also can provide resources and assistance in finding internships and other experiential opportunities. Students are also encouraged to review the Special Studies Courses section under 'Course Enrollment' for additional information regarding Field Study and Internship options.

Off-Campus Programs

Education Abroad (Study Abroad)

Each year, more than 75 Human Ecology students participate in education abroad programs, gaining academic, professional, and cross‑cultural experience while studying at institutions around the world. These opportunities allow students to complement their Cornell coursework while developing global perspective and disciplinary depth.

Education Abroad options include Cornell‑sponsored programs, approved programs administered by other U.S. institutions, and direct enrollment at international universities. Students should consult the Office of Global Learning for current program listings, application procedures, academic planning guidance, and credit transfer policies.

Eligibility

To participate in a fall or spring Education Abroad program, students must:

• Be a registered, full‑time Cornell student
• Be in good academic standing with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
• Be able to study abroad and graduate on time
• Apply by published deadlines through the Office of Global Learning
• Obtain approval from their Human Ecology Education Abroad Advisor using the CHE Study Abroad Participation and Course Approval Form
• Students studying in countries where English is not the primary language are required to enroll in at least one 3‑credit course in the host country’s language

Students may petition for one‑time approval to attend a non‑approved program. Approval is not guaranteed and requires review by both the Office of Global Learning and the College of Human Ecology. Credit is not awarded retroactively for study abroad undertaken independently during a leave of absence.

Program Requirements

Approved programs must:

• Be CHE‑approved or receive one‑time recognition through the official petition process
• Require completion of 15–16 semester credits per term (unless otherwise approved)
• Offer coursework taken for a letter grade

Transfer Students

External transfer students may participate in Education Abroad programs under the same policies as other CHE students. Credits earned through Office of Global Learning fall or spring programs do not count toward the maximum transfer credit limit but are capped at 15 credits per semester and 30 credits per academic year. Transfer students nearing the 60‑credit maximum should consult a Human Ecology study abroad Advisor to assess degree progress.

Students planning to study abroad are encouraged to meet with a CHE College Advisor prior to departure to plan coursework following their return.

IC–CU Exchange Program

Full-time undergraduate students enrolled in at least 12 credits at Cornell University may petition to enroll in courses at Ithaca College through the IC–CU Exchange Program.

Students may enroll in up to one course per semester, with a maximum of 12 total credits over four years. Limited exceptions may apply to specific approved programs. Students pay regular Cornell tuition and are responsible for any special course fees applicable at Ithaca College.

Courses must be relevant to the student’s academic program and may not duplicate Cornell offerings. Credit earned counts as Cornell credit but does not count as Human Ecology credit. Enrollment is space-available and subject to approval by both institutions. The program is offered during the fall and spring semesters.

For complete policies, eligibility requirements, and registration procedures, visit the IC-CU Exchange website.

Capital Semester

The Capital Semester program offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in New York State government affairs through a paid internship experience while earning academic credit. Key features of the program include:

• Undergraduate students enroll in a full semester of 12 Cornell credits through PUBPOL 4970 New York State Government Affairs.
• Graduate students enroll in 8 Cornell credits through PUBPOL 5920 Public Affairs Externships.
• The program includes a paid internship with a New York State legislator, either in the Assembly or Senate, located in Albany.
  • Graduate students are only eligible to participate in the senate program.
• Interns engage in various activities such as attending hearings and legislative sessions, meeting with lobbyists and constituents, writing reports for legislation and potential publication, and assisting in the daily work of their assigned legislator.
• Opportunities are available for undergraduate and graduate students, regardless of major, and are especially beneficial for those interested in policy-related careers or further academic studies in law, graduate school, or business school.

For more information, including application details and benefits, please visit the Brooks School website or contact campus liaison, Zoë Nelson, at zmn2@cornell.edu.

Brooks School Cornell in Washington DC Connect

Cornell in Washington DC Connect is an immersive spring and summer program located in the heart of Washington, D.C. This unique experience offers students from all colleges the opportunity to earn full academic credit while living, learning, and interning in the nation’s capital.

Through the program, students enroll in small courses led by Cornell faculty who are industry experts and gain hands-on work experience through an internship of their choosing. Participants live in the Wolpe Center in Dupont Circle, creating a fully integrated and professional experience in D.C.

To learn more about the Cornell in Washington DC Connect program, visit the Brooks School website.

College of Human Ecology Graduation Requirements

Students are responsible for monitoring their progress toward graduation by regularly reviewing degree requirements and their official transcript. Official transcripts may be requested through the Office of the University Registrar.

Students are expected to plan their course selections carefully to ensure all major, college, and university graduation requirements are completed within eight semesters. Once all requirements have been satisfied, the College will confer the degree; students should therefore monitor their progress closely.

Minor programs, honors programs, research, and other enrichment opportunities are not considered degree requirements. Students who complete all university, college, and major degree requirements will have their degree conferred in the term in which those requirements are satisfied and may not extend enrollment solely to complete non‑degree requirements or activities.

Transfer students may be allotted fewer semesters depending on the number of transferable credits awarded at admission. Students who require additional time to complete degree requirements must meet with a Human Ecology College Advisor (1210 MVR Hall) and be approved through the formal petition process.

Credit Requirements

Cornell Credit Requirements

• To graduate, a student must earn a minimum of 120 academic credits. Physical education credits and 10XX courses do not count toward the 120 required credits.
• Of the 120 credits required to graduate, at least 60 credits must be earned at Cornell University (applicable to transfer students).
• Students who matriculate as first-years may apply a maximum of 15 non-Cornell credits earned prior to matriculation (including AP, IB, and approved college-level coursework) toward the 120 credits required for graduation.
• Transfer students may apply up to 60 non-Cornell credits earned prior to matriculation, as awarded at the time of admission. After matriculation, all students (both first-year and transfer) may apply a maximum of 15 extramural credits (coursework taken outside of Cornell) toward the 120 credits required for graduation.
• No college credit earned before matriculation and used to meet Cornell's minimum admission requirements may be counted in the 120 credits required for graduation. This policy does not apply to transfer students.
• Courses taught by a college in the high school setting or counted toward high school graduation are not allowed to count for either credits or fulfillment of requirements.
• Strict limitations exist on the number of credits that can be applied toward the 120-credit minimum for special studies courses (including but not limited to 4000, 4010, 4020), for 4030 courses, and for courses taken with an optional S–U grade. Details follow.

Human Ecology Core Requirement^1,2

¹

Internal and external transfer students are exempt from HE 1800.

²

Internal and external transfer students must complete HE 2000 in their first fall semester in Human Ecology.

Human Ecology Distribution Requirement

Students must complete the college distribution requirements listed below. Each course applied to a distribution category must be a minimum of 3 credits, and the total credits in each category must meet the specified requirement (3 or 6 credits).  A list of courses that fulfill each Distribution Requirement code can be found on the College of Human Ecology Distribution Requirement Course List page of this catalog.

³

Courses with exam credit may not count.

⁴

Juniors, seniors, and transfer students may use ENGL 2880 Expository Writing to satisfy one First-Year Writing Seminar (FWS) requirement. For additional information on FWS courses and guidelines, please visit the John S. Knight Institute for Writing in the Disciplines.

45 Human Ecology Credit Requirement^4,5,6

⁴

Courses that fulfill College Distribution or Major Requirements may not be taken S–U unless S–U is the only grading option available.

⁵

Courses taken S–U that count toward Electives may also be applied to the 45-credit requirement.

⁶

Students should refer to the S–U grading section for complete policy details.

Minimum Semester Requirements

Students enrolling in the college as first‑years must enroll in a minimum of one 3‑credit course each semester in HE for their first four semesters, excluding winter and summer sessions (i.e., fall and spring semesters only). Students must carry 12 credits each semester, excluding physical education.

Grade Point Average (GPA) Requirement for Graduation

Students must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 (C) or better to graduate.

Degree Requirements by Catalog Year

 All degree requirements are based on the term in which the student matriculated to Human Ecology with no exceptions. If a student changes majors within Human Ecology, they should speak with the Human Ecology College Advisor or Registrar to discuss options. 

Special Studies

• A maximum of 12 credits of special study course work from Human Ecology or other colleges will count towards the 120 overall credits. Courses will be indicated on the class roster with a Component of either IND or RSC. Additional special study credits may be taken but will not be applied toward the student’s major, college, or university degree requirements.
• A maximum of 12 credits of 4000-4030 may count toward the 45 HE credit requirement.

10XX Courses

10XX‑numbered courses do not count toward graduation requirements but do count toward full‑time enrollment status.

S-U Grade Options

The S‑U grading option may not be used for College Distribution courses or required major courses unless it is the only grading option available for the course. S‑U grading may be applied to courses taken to fulfill the Outside‑of‑Major requirement and to elective courses.

Students may apply no more than 12 credits of S‑U graded coursework toward the 120 credits required for graduation. Required courses that are offered only on an S‑U basis do not count toward this limit. In addition, Honors Research (4990) taken S‑U is excluded from the 12‑credit maximum. Students may enroll in additional S‑U courses beyond this limit; however, those credits will not be applied toward graduation requirements.

Advanced Placement and Advanced Standing Credit

Degree Programs

Human Ecology programs lead to the degrees of bachelor of science (B.S.), master of arts (M.A.), master of science (M.S.), master of professional studies in human ecology (M.P.S.), master of health administration (M.H.A.), and doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.). Human Ecology does not permit double majors. Programs leading to master and doctoral degrees are administered by the Graduate School.

Undergraduate Degrees

Bachelor of science (B.S.) degrees are offered in the following areas:

Undergraduate Minors

Undergraduate students may pursue minors in a variety of fields offered across multiple colleges of the University. Successfully completed minors are recorded on the student’s official transcript. Not all departments offer minors, and some minors may have specific eligibility requirements or restrictions. Students should contact the appropriate department for detailed information and procedures for declaring a minor.

Administered by the Graduate School

• Human Ecology (MPS)

Policies and Procedures

Registration and Course Enrollment

University Record Holds

The University assumes certain legal responsibilities for persons who participate as students in the University environment. As a result, specific requirements must be met in order to be eligible to remain enrolled for a current term or enroll in a subsequent term. For more information, refer to University Record Holds.

Enrollment Procedures

New Students

New first‑year and transfer students participate in course enrollment during the summer prior to their arrival on campus.

• Entering first‑year students may enroll in a maximum of eighteen (18) credits in each of their first two semesters. This limit includes non‑academic credits such as Physical Education (PE) and review or supplemental courses.

Continuing Students

Students should discuss their course selection and long-range goals with a college academic advisor or department advising coordinator prior to enrollment.

• Continuing students select and enroll in up to eighteen (18) credits during the enrollment period through Student Center, and up to a maximum of twenty‑two (22) credits during Add/Drop.

General Enrollment Information

Instructions regarding course enrollment are available at Course Enrollment and Credits, and Student Center Help.

• The official enrollment platform for Cornell University is Student Center.
• The Class Roster can be used to search available courses by semester. Please note: some courses may have Add/Drop deadlines separate from the University dates.
• Students may add and drop classes during the specified enrollment periods (enrollment and Add/Drop) of each semester. Enrollment dates can be found on the University Academic Calendar.
• Students must review and confirm their official course schedules in Student Center. Canvas is not considered an official source of enrollment information.

Enrollment Changes

A student is held responsible, and receives a grade, for enrolled courses unless the student officially changes their enrollment. The University provides key academic dates for add, drop, and withdrawal deadlines each semester. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of, and abide by, these deadlines.

All changes in courses, credits, grading options, or sections must be made by the student during the proper enrollment periods. Approval of department or course instructor may be required to change course enrollment.

• Students may add courses and change credit hours, if applicable, through the academic add deadline of the current semester (with the exception of specific courses with special deadlines).
• Students may drop courses and change grading options through the academic drop deadline of the current semester. Dropping a course removes it from the academic transcript.
• Requests to add a course to a previous semester’s enrollment are not permitted.
• Requests to withdraw from a course in a previous semester are not permitted.
• Courses officially dropped after the academic drop deadline will be permanently noted on the official academic transcript with a "W" where the grade would normally appear and there is no impact to the student's cumulative grade point average (GPA). This is a matter of record and is permanent.

Cross-Listed Courses

To apply a cross-listed course to graduation requirements, students must enroll in the department for which they need the credits. If changes in department designations need to be made, this must be done during the official course add period for the semester. Cross-listed course swaps are permitted only within the same term in which the student is actively enrolled. Swaps cannot be completed retroactively for prior terms. Cross-Listed Course Change Requests will be accepted each semester beginning the day after the add period ends and continuing through the final day of instruction.

A meeting with a CHE College Advisor is recommended if there are questions about the above criteria. Further information is available on the University Enrollment, Credit and Requirements page.

Special Studies Courses

Each department in the College of Human Ecology (DEA, FSAD, HD, HE, and NS) offers Special Studies courses that allow students to pursue independent academic work not available in regular coursework. These courses include 3000‑level Special Studies, 4000 Directed Readings, 4010 Empirical Research, 4020 Supervised Fieldwork, and 4030 Course Assistantships. Special Studies courses are typically taken by juniors and seniors under the supervision of a faculty member in the offering department.

Students must consult with a faculty supervisor, develop a plan of work, and submit an online Special Studies request. Upon faculty approval, students will receive a permission code to enroll. Enrollment must be completed by the end of the fifth week of the semester.

Credits are awarded based on required faculty contact hours (45 contact hours per credit). Limitations apply to the number of Special Studies credits that may count toward graduation, college, or major requirements; students should refer to the Human Ecology Credit Requirements section for applicable credit maximums.

Course Assistantships (4030) are subject to the following restrictions:

• Students may not receive credit for serving as a course assistant for the same course more than once.
• Students may not enroll in and serve as a course assistant for the same course during the same term.
• Course 4030 does not fulfill major requirements.
• Enrollment in 4030 is limited to a maximum of 5 credit hours per semester.

Students enrolling in Special Studies courses outside the College of Human Ecology must follow the procedures and policies of the offering department.

Enrollment Timing and Credit Policies

Changes in Status

Leaves of Absence

Grades and Examinations

Grade Definitions

Repeating Courses

Students may enroll more than once in a course in which they have previously earned a passing grade or received a grade of F.

If a student repeats a course previously passed, the credits from the second enrollment will not count toward degree or graduation requirements. The grade earned in the repeated course will be included in the cumulative GPA, but the course credits may be applied only once toward the total credits required for the degree.

If a student repeats a course in which an F was previously earned, the credits from the repeat enrollment will count toward graduation requirements, and the grade earned will be included in the cumulative GPA. The original F remains on the academic record and continues to be calculated in the GPA.

Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (S/U) Grading Option

Grades of Incomplete (INC)

A grade of Incomplete (INC) is awarded only when both of the following conditions are met:

1. The student has substantial equity at a passing level in the course based on work completed; and
2. The student has been prevented by circumstances beyond their control from completing all required course work within the established time frame.

An Incomplete may not be assigned solely because a student failed to complete course requirements on time or desires additional time to improve performance. The assignment of an Incomplete is not an option that may be elected at the student’s discretion.

It is the student’s responsibility to initiate a request for an Incomplete and to discuss the request with the instructor before the end of classes and prior to the study period. The instructor determines whether the circumstances warrant an Incomplete and establishes the specific remaining requirements and deadline for completion.

A grade of Incomplete may remain on the student’s official transcript for a maximum of two semesters and one summer term, or until the awarding of a degree, whichever occurs first. An instructor may set a shorter deadline for completion of the required work.

If the work is completed within the approved time period, the Incomplete will be replaced with the appropriate final grade on the student’s official transcript. If the work is not completed by the deadline, the Incomplete will automatically convert to a grade of F, in accordance with college policy.

Students are responsible for ensuring that all required work is submitted on time and for verifying that the final grade has been recorded by the Human Ecology Registrar’s Office. Failure to resolve an Incomplete within the permitted time frame may affect academic standing and progress toward the degree, including minimum semester credit requirements.

Faculty members should not assign an Incomplete solely due to time pressures associated with grade submission deadlines.

Grade Disputes

Students who wish to dispute a course grade are encouraged to pursue resolution through the following channels, as appropriate:

• Meet with the course instructor to attempt to resolve the concern.
• If the issue remains unresolved, meet with the chair of the department in which the instructor holds an appointment.
• Meet with the associate dean for undergraduate studies of the college in which the course was offered.
• Consult the University Ombudsman (118 Stimson Hall, 607‑255‑4321).

Students may also seek guidance from a faculty advisor, the Human Ecology Registrar’s Office, or a College of Human Ecology academic advisor in the Office of Student, and Career Development (1210 MVR Hall).

Final Examinations

The university academic calendar provides a study period followed by a final examination period at the end of each semester. Final examinations and other end‑of‑semester evaluative exercises are scheduled and administered in accordance with university policy.

For current policies and scheduling information, students should consult the Final Examinations section of the University Catalog and communications from the Office of the University Registrar.

Return of Exams and Other Graded Work

There is no federal or state law governing the manner in which graded academic work must be returned to students. However, instructors are expected to handle the review and return of graded materials in a way that protects student privacy.

Students have the right to review and examine their graded exams, papers, and other evaluative materials in order to understand and discuss their academic performance. Students do not, however, have an absolute right to retain possession of such materials.

Examinations, papers, and grading records should be retained for at least one year after the completion of the course to allow students the opportunity for review.

Academic Standing and Integrity

Criteria for Good Academic Standing

The College of Human Ecology has established minimum academic standards that all undergraduate students must meet or exceed each semester. These standards are as follows:

• Students must maintain both a semester and cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.0.
• Students must successfully complete a minimum of 12 academic credits per semester, excluding physical education courses.
• During the first four semesters of enrollment (excluding winter and summer sessions), students must enroll each semester in at least one 3‑credit course offered by the College of Human Ecology, designated by the course codes HE, DEA, FSAD, HD, NS, or PUBPOL. First‑Year Writing Seminars (FWS) with these course codes do not satisfy this requirement.
• Students must be making satisfactory progress toward completion of a Human Ecology bachelor’s degree.
• Students must complete the first‑year writing seminar (FWS) requirement within their first two semesters at Cornell University. Students who do not enroll in a required FWS during their first semester of matriculation will be placed on warning status.

Students who, after completing their second or subsequent semester, have not completed both required FWS courses will be reviewed by the Committee on Academic Status (CAS). If the student has not enrolled in an FWS for the upcoming semester, a registration hold will be placed until enrollment is confirmed. Failure to complete the FWS requirement by the end of that semester may result in withdrawal from the College.

Committee on Academic Status (CAS) Actions

At the conclusion of each semester, the Committee on Academic Status (CAS) reviews each student’s academic record to determine compliance with the minimum academic standards outlined above. The committee evaluates each case individually and may take one or more of the following actions in support of student success:

• Place a hold on university registration or course enrollment.
• Issue a warning, severe warning, or severe warning with danger of withdrawal.
• Place the student on a review list, with progress monitored throughout the semester.
• Require the student to take a leave of absence for one or more semesters.
• Withdraw the student from the College and Cornell University.
• Return the student to good standing.

Students placed on warning or severe warning status will be informed of the specific conditions required to return to good standing. In general, these conditions include:

• Earning a minimum semester GPA of 2.0
• Completing at least 12 academic credits, excluding physical education
• Resolving any Incomplete, missing, F, or U grades on the most recent semester record

Students on warning status are automatically reviewed again at the end of the subsequent semester.

Appeals, Return from Leave, and Readmission

(Committee on Academic Status (CAS) Review and Decisions)

Students placed on a required leave of absence must appeal to the Committee on Academic Status (CAS) at the conclusion of the leave period in order to return. Students who have been withdrawn may appeal the decision during the committee’s pre‑semester appeals meeting.

Students whose academic status was affected by incomplete or missing grades may request a status review once grade records have been updated. Such requests must be submitted through the general petition process to the College Registrar.

Students seeking to return after a required leave must submit a plan of study to CAS and are encouraged to consult with a College of Human Ecology academic advisor in the Office of Student, and Career Development (1210 MVR Hall) regarding procedures and deadlines.

Students withdrawn by CAS may request readmission within three years of the withdrawal date with the assistance of a College of Human Ecology academic advisor. After three years, former students must apply for readmission through the Office of Admission. Applicants are encouraged to consult with academic advisors, faculty members, instructors, or appropriate university support services. All materials submitted to CAS are treated as confidential.

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to review and comply with the Code of Academic Integrity, as well as all applicable University policies governing academic conduct.

Academic Records and Privacy

Academic Records

Students may obtain their Cornell academic records through several means. The Cornell transcript, which is the official record of courses, credits, and grades earned, may be ordered at no charge through the Office of the University Registrar (B07 Day Hall) or online via the University’s transcript service. Students with questions about transcript requests may contact the Office of the University Registrar at (607) 255‑4232.

Students may also view grades and course schedules electronically through Student Center. Students are responsible for reviewing their official course schedules and grading options and are encouraged to confirm the accuracy of this information by the second week of each semester. Any necessary adjustments must be made before published enrollment deadlines.

Academic Honors and Awards

The College recognizes academic excellence and outstanding achievement through several honors and awards.

Honors Societies

Kappa Omicron Nu

Kappa Omicron Nu is a national honor society that promotes scholarship, leadership, and research in the human sciences. As an active chapter within the College of Human Ecology at Cornell University, Kappa Omicron Nu recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and a commitment to improving individual and community well‑being.

Students are eligible for membership upon attaining sophomore, junior, or senior status. Invitations are extended to students who rank in the top 25% of their major, and induction occurs during the spring semester.

Degree Honors

Bachelor of Science with Major Honors

Almost all departments offer honors programs for students who have demonstrated exceptional accomplishment in the major and succeeded in research. The conferring of honors is set by the departments for each major. Minors do not offer honors programs. Students should contact their department with questions about honors in the respective major.

Bachelor of Science with Latin Honors

Beginning with the December 2026 conferral date, Cornell University will award Latin Honors based solely on final cumulative undergraduate GPA. The Latin Honors categories include: Summa Cum Laude (top 5%), Magna Cum Laude (next 10%), and Cum Laude (next 15%).

The student's cumulative undergraduate GPA percentile at the time of degree conferral will be computed with respect to the student's particular college. See Graduation and Academic Honors for more information.

Undergraduate Affairs

Internal Transfer Students

Students seeking information about the internal transfer process should contact the Office of Human Ecology Admissions.

Empire State (SUNY Empire) Students

Students enrolled in degree programs at SUNY Empire State University may, under limited circumstances, enroll in courses offered by the College of Human Ecology as visiting or cross‑registered students. Enrollment is subject to space availability, instructor approval, and applicable university and SUNY cross‑registration policies.

Registration, billing, and credit arrangements are administered through the appropriate Cornell and SUNY Empire offices in accordance with current cross‑registration agreements. Students must complete all required approvals and documentation prior to enrollment.

Academic Policy Exceptions

Petition Overview

The petition process allows undergraduate, degree‑seeking students in the College of Human Ecology to request exceptions to academic policies based on defined eligibility criteria or documented, extenuating circumstances. Petitions are reviewed individually, and approval is not guaranteed. Additional eligibility requirements, procedural details, and restrictions for each petition type are provided on the Human Ecology Forms and Petitions website. Requests related to off‑campus coursework, retroactive credit, graduation timing, and enrollment beyond standard limits are governed by additional policies described elsewhere in this catalog, including Off Campus Coursework, Retroactive Credit Policy, and Graduation Timing and Enrollment Beyond Eight Semesters.

Curriculum Waiver, Substitution, and Transfer Credit

This petition is used to request course waivers or substitutions; approval to enroll in coursework at another institution for transfer credit; or approval of coursework completed through approved study abroad or exchange programs. Only coursework approved in advance may be applied toward degree requirements. 

Credit limits apply and include all post‑matriculation external coursework and applicable test credits. Students should also review the Off Campus Coursework and Retroactive Credit Policy sections of this catalog, which define eligibility, approval requirements, and limitations on credit earned outside Cornell.

General Petition

Used to request exceptions such as missed deadlines, late course withdrawals, or extensions of graduation dates. General Petitions may not be used to request retroactive academic credit or course adjustments.

Change of Major

Students changing majors within the College of Human Ecology must submit a Change of Major form. Approval is subject to departmental and registrar review and may affect graduation timelines.

Faculty

A

Anderson, Adam, Ph.D., Yale U. Prof., Psychology

Aydemir, Tolunay, Ph.D., U. of Florida, Asst. Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

B

Barré, Laura, M.D., R.D., Dartmouth U., Asst. Clinical Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Barrow, Joeva, Ph.D., U. of Florida Asst., Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Baytar, Fatma, Ph.D., Cornell U., Assoc. Prof., Human Centered Design

Bellows, Laura, Ph.D., Colorado State U., Assoc. Prof., Director of Graduate Studies, Division of Nutritional Sciences

Berry, Daniel C., Ph.D. Case Western Reserve U., Asst. Prof., Andre Bensadoun Associate Professor, Division of Nutritional Sciences

Brainerd, Charles, Ph.D., Michigan State U., Prof., Psychology

Burrow, Anthony, Ph.D., Florida International U., Assoc. Prof., Psychology

C

Casasanto, Daniel, Ph.D., U. of Chicago, Assoc. Prof., Psychology

Casasola, Marianella, Ph.D., U. of Texas, Austin., Prof., Psychology; Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Affairs

Cassano, Patricia, Ph.D., U. of Washington, Prof., Alan D. Mathios Professor in the College of Human Ecology, Division of Nutritional Sciences

Ceci, Stephen J., Ph.D., U. of Exeter (UK)., Prof., Psychology

Cunningham, Paige, Ph.D., The Pennsylvania State University, Asst. Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

D

Dahl, Audun, Ph.D., U. of California, Berkeley, Assoc. Prof., Psychology

DeRosa, Eve, Ph.D., Harvard U., Assoc. Prof., Psychology

Dunifon, Rachel, Ph.D., Northwestern U. Prof., Psychology; Rebecca Q. and James C. Morgan Dean of the College of Human Ecology

E

Eckenrode, John J., Ph.D., Tufts U., Prof. Emeritus, Psychology

Elliott, John, M.E. Des., U. of Calgary (Canada)., Assoc. Prof., Human Centered Design

Evans, Gary, Ph.D., U. of Massachusetts, Amherst., Prof., Human Centered Design and Psychology

F

Field, Martha, Ph.D., Cornell U., Asst. Prof. Division of Nutritional Sciences

Figueroa, Roger, Ph.D., U. of Illinois, Asst. Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Frey, Margaret, Ph.D., North Carolina State U., Vincent V.C. Woo Professor in Fiber Science Emerita, Human Centered Design

G

Ghosh, Shibani, Ph.D., U of Massachusetts, Amherst, Assoc. Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Gier, Emily, M.B.A., Binghamton U. Assoc., Prof. of Practice, Dietetic Internship Director, Division of Nutritional Sciences

Golan Maor, Yarden, Ph.D., R.D., Isreal Institute of Technology, Asst. Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Gonzalez, Marlen, Ph.D., U. of Virginia., Asst. Prof., Psychology

Green, Denise, Ph.D., U. of British Columbia., Assoc. Prof., Human Centered Design

Green, Keith, Ph.D., U. of Pennsylvania., Prof., Human Centered Design

H

Hazan, Cindy, Ph.D., U. of Denver, Prof., Psychology

Hinestroza, Juan, Ph.D., Tulane U., Assoc. Prof., Human Centered Design

Hobbs, William, Ph.D., U. of California, San Diego., Asst. Prof., Psychology

Hoddinott, John F., Ph.D., U. of Oxford, Prof., H.E. Babcock Professor of Food & Nutrition Economics and Policy, Division of Nutritional Sciences

Hoffman, Adam, Ph.D., U. of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Asst. Prof., Psychology

Hua, Ying, Ph.D., Carnegie Mellon U., Prof., Human Centered Design

I

Inniss-Thompson, Misha, Ph.D., Vanderbilt U. Asst. Prof., Psychology

K

Kalantari, Saleh, Ph.D., Texas A&M U., Prof., Human Centered Design

Kao, Hsin-Liu (Cindy), Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Assoc. Prof., Human Centered Design

Kaur, Gunisha, M.D., M.A., Weill Cornell Medical College, Courtesy Asst. Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Kersten, Sander, Ph.D., Cornell U. Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences Director, Schleifer Family Professor, Division of Nutritional Sciences

L

Leak, Tashara, Ph.D., U. of Minnesota Assoc., Prof., Associate Dean for CHE in NYC, Division of Nutritional Sciences

Leigh, Sang-won, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Asst. Prof., Human Centered Design

Leitao, Renata, Ph.D., U. de Montreal, Asst. Prof., Human Centered Design

Lewis, Van Dyk, Ph.D., U. of Central England, Birmingham, Assoc. Prof., Human Centered Design

Loebach, Janet, Ph.D., Western U., Asst. Prof., Human Centered Design

Loeckenhoff, Corinna, Ph.D., Stanford U., Prof., Psychology

Lujan, Marla, Ph.D., Queen's U. (Canada), Assoc. Prof., Director of Undergraduate Studies, Division of Nutritional Sciences

M

Mehta, Saurabh, M.D., Sc.D., Harvard U., Prof., Janet and Gordon Lankton Professor, Division of Nutritional Sciences

Mendle, Jane, Ph.D., U. of Virginia., Assoc. Prof., Psychology

O

O'Brien, Kimberly, Ph.D., U. of Connecticut, Prof., Director of Graduate Studies, Division of Nutritional Sciences

Odoms-Young, Angela, Ph.D., Cornell U., Assoc. Prof., Nancy Schlegel Meinig Associate Professor of Maternal and Child Nutrition, Division of Nutritional Sciences

Ong, Anthony D., Ph.D., U. of Southern California. Prof., Psychology

P

Park, Heeju, Ph.D., Oklahoma State U. Prof., Human Centered Design

Pillemer, Karl A., Ph.D., Brandeis U. Prof., Psychology

Poole, Angela, Ph.D., U. of Washington, Asst. Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Q

Qian, Shu-Bing, Ph.D. Shanghai Jiaotong U. (People's Republic of China), Prof., James Jamison Professor, Division of Nutritional Sciences

R

Reed, Jaleesa, Ph.D., U. of Georgia, Asst. Prof., Human Centered Design

Reyna, Valerie, Ph.D., Rockefeller U. Prof., Psychology

Robertson, Steven S., Ph.D., Cornell U. Prof. Emeritus, Psychology

Rottenberg, Jonathan, Ph.D., Standford U., Prof., Psychology

S

Sahn, David, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Salerno, Jessica, Ph.D., U of Illinois, Chicago, Assoc. Prof., Psychology

Shepherd, Larissa, Ph.D., Cornell U., Asst. Prof., Human Centered Design

Shepley, Mardelle, Ph.D., U of Michigan, Prof. Emerita, Human Centered Design

Shin, Jung-hye, Ph.D., U. of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Prof., Chair, Human Centered Design

Sternberg, Robert, Ph.D., Stanford U., Prof., Psychology

T

Thoemmes, Felix, Ph.D., Arizona State U., Assoc. Prof., Psychology

U

Uyar, Tamer, Ph.D., North Carolina State U., Assoc. Prof., Human Centered Design

V

Vacanti, Nathaniel, Ph.D., U of California, San Diego, Asst. Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

W

Wang, Meng, M.D., Ph.D., U. of Cambridge, Asst. Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Wang, Q. I., Ph.D., Harvard U., Prof., Psychology

Wang, Yuhan, Ph.D., Oregon Health & Science U., Asst. Prof., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Wells, Jenna, Ph.D., U. of California, Berkeley, Asst. Prof., Psychology

Wells, Nancy, Ph.D., U. of Michigan, Prof., Human Centered Design; Senior Associate Dean for Research

Wethington, Elaine, Ph.D., U. of Michigan, Prof. Emeritus, Psychology

Williams, Wendy M., Ph.D., Yale U., Prof., Psychology

Y

Yoon, JungKyoon, Ph.D., Delft U of Technology, Assoc. Prof., Director of Graduate Studies, Human Centered Design

Yoon, So-Yeon, Ph.D., U. of Missouri-Columbia, Prof., Human Centered Design

Z

Zadeh, Rana, Ph.D., Texas A&M U., Ass. Prof., Human Centered Design

Lecturers

Ahmadi, Nooshin, M.Arch. Degree, Texas A&M U., Sr. Lec., Human Centered Design

Blumenkamp, Catherine, M.P.S., Cornell U., Lec., Human Centered Design

Casasanto, Laura, Ph.D., Stanford U., Visiting Lec., Psychology

Centeno Tablante, Elizabeth, Ph.D., Cornell U., Lec., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Conroy, Melissa, M.A., U. of Georgia and Philadelphia U., Sr. Lec., Human Centered Design

Gilmore, Rhonda, M.A., Cornell U., Sr. Lec. Emeritus, Human Centered Design

Kim, Eddy Man, M.Des., Harvard U., Sr. Lec., Human Centered Design

Korfine, Lauren, Ph.D., Harvard U. Sr. Lec., Director of Undergraduate Studies, Psychology

Medina-Rivera, Melisa, Ph.D., SUNY Buffalo, Lec., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Milewski, Andrew, M.D., Ph.D., Weill Cornell Medical College, The Rockefeller U., Visiting Lec., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Phoenix, Kim, M.A., Cornell U., Sr. Lec., Human Centered Design

Quinn, Kelly, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N., Northern Illinois U., Lec., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Rajagopolan, Kripa, Ph.D., Cornell U., Lec., Division of Nutritional Sciences

Riley, Elizabeth, Ph.D., Boston U. School of Medicine, Visiting Lec., Psychology