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Cornell University

Undergraduate Education

College of Arts & Sciences

Arts & Sciences is a thriving environment for undergraduate students to follow their curiosity and find a course of study to match their interests. The rich diversity of academic pursuits in A&S opens opportunities to connect students to dynamic course offerings and world class faculty who create innovative classes that encourage students to try out new ideas, learn about new people and challenge themselves – embracing the best parts of a liberal arts education.

A liberal arts education will help students understand the foundations of knowledge, inquiry and creativity and prepare them for this era of rapid social, technological, economic and environmental change. Student services staff are at the ready to support students' academic, personal, and professional growth.

College FAQs

Who advises students in your school/college?

Advising deans help students explore academic resources, curriculum and understand the academic requirements of the College of Arts & Sciences. You can also discuss academic support resources as well as any challenges you face.

Faculty advisors are your go-to source for information about major requirements. You can find your faculty advisor in Student Center under "program advisor." 

Peer Ambassadors are assigned to all first-year students and can answer questions from a student perspective to ease the transition from high school to college. Learn more about Peer Ambassadors. 

Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) in each academic department is also available to help plan a path toward a particular major. Contact DUS. 

Office of Undergraduate Biology (OUB) advises on academics and research for all biology majors in both A&S and CALS. Learn more about OUB. 

How do I know who's my assigned advisor or advising team?

Students can find their assigned advising dean and faculty advisor through their Student Center.  

How do I make an appointment with an advisor?

A&S students can make a 30-minute appointment with their advising dean here. Students are also able to attend drop-in hours with their advising dean for brief meetings. Drop-in hours are hosted remotely via Zoom and the schedule can found here.

Students who want to meet with their faculty advisor are welcome to reach out to them directly over email to set up a meeting time.  

When should I meet with my advisor?

Students are recommended to meet with their advising dean at least once a semester but are welcome to meet with their advising dean more often. Advising deans can assist students in course selection, discuss academic engagement beyond the classroom, and refer students to campus resources to get the most out of their undergraduate experience. 

Four Advising Areas

Academic Focus

The College of Arts & Sciences has developed an innovative curriculum that encourages a curiosity driven exploration of all the benefits of a liberal arts education. The curriculum is designed to take full advantage of leading liberal arts faculty, as well as the resources of a world class research university. 

Undergraduate students in the college have 40+ majors and minors to explore and discover. Students can deepen their academic enrichment by engaging in Special Academic Opportunities within the college.

Experiential Learning

A&S students are encouraged to engage in various experiential opportunities that elevate their academic journey. Students who seek greater understanding of the world's people, cultures, economies and environment can choose to Study Abroad. 

Undergraduate students in A&S can do meaningful research across various academic departments to expand their knowledge. Students who are interested in pursuing their curiosity can learn more about getting involved in Undergraduate Research. 

Community and Belonging

A&S students are encouraged to connect with the broader Cornell community outside of the classroom to enrich their experience.  Our Student Life website provides links to various offices across campus that are essential to student wellness and community building. 

Career Exploration

A&S Career Development is your first stop for career exploration, job/internship search support, graduate school support, interview prep, and more. We specialize in helping liberal arts students determine their goals and provide the tools to achieve them. We support current A&S undergraduates and young alumni. It's never too early to start thinking about your future!