Agriculture at Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Agriculture, General
30 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
30
Optimistic
30
Base Case
22
Pessimistic
Earnings $53,465/yr (32% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Small (6,800 openings/yr)
ROI 2.0x earnings multiple
Ranked #40 of 47 Agriculture, General programs

Program Analysis

Cornell’s status as New York's land-grant university gives its agriculture programs a unique mission and deep regional connections. You aren't just studying theory; you're immersed in an ecosystem tied directly to the state's vibrant food and farming industries, from Finger Lakes wineries to dairy science innovators. This creates a powerful pipeline to careers in agribusiness, food tech, and environmental policy, with employers like the USDA, PepsiCo, and major ag-tech startups actively recruiting on campus. The program's true value lies in its flexibility—you can pivot from plant science research to a business role at a global food company. To maximize this degree’s potential, don’t just focus on the core science. Actively seek out courses or a minor in applied economics, business, or data science to position yourself for the higher-paying management and technology tracks within the industry.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Agriculture graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $527K $524K $484K
Earnings Multiple 2.0x 2.0x 1.8x
Probability of Field Employment 43% 39% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 30 30 22

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$264,056
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$129,348
51% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$13,109
2.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$56,857
6% growth from Year 1

About Cornell University

Cornell University admits 8% of applicants — among the most selective institutions in the country, serving 15,935 students in Ithaca, NY. After financial aid, the average student pays $129,348 over four years — 51% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at Cornell University →

Top Career Paths

Agricultural sciences teachers, postsecondary $86,350/yr
Food scientists and technologists $85,310/yr
Animal scientists $79,120/yr
View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Agriculture at Other Schools

Other Majors at Cornell University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 30/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Agriculture at Cornell University?
At 30/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Agriculture programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Agriculture at Cornell University?
The 47% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
What do students actually pay for Agriculture at Cornell University?
The 51% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $264,056. At a net cost of $129,348, the earnings multiple improves substantially.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →