The Robert S. Harrison College Scholar Program represents the pinnacle of the liberal arts experience at Cornell. The program is focused on a small group of stellar students whose interests transcend disciplinary boundaries. These students have demonstrated exceptional promise and maturity to plan and carry out a well-designed individualized program of study and research. Students design their own interdisciplinary major, organized around a question or issue of interest, and pursue a course of study that cannot be found in an established major.
College Scholars explore subjects with a broader integration of related disciplines than most students would attempt. They pursue their subjects using advanced, often graduate-level, techniques. As a capstone to their studies, all Scholars undertake an independent senior project, usually culminating in an honors thesis. It is a unique opportunity within the College of Arts & Sciences for engagement and learning, in the classroom and beyond.
Outcomes
All information below is based on the 2022 First-Destination Post-Graduate Survey.
If you would like to more information, please email as_careers@cornell.edu
What can you do with a College Scholar degree?
Graduate School:
In 2022, 44% of college scholar graduates embarked on graduate school journeys. They pursued various advanced degrees, with 44% focusing on their PhD, 19% working towards a JD, 7% dedicated to an MA, and more. Their graduate field interest ranges from law (19%) to classics (11%).
These ambitious individuals have chosen to continue their education at prestigious institutions like Harvard University, Princeton University, Stanford University, and the University of Oxford.
Employment:
18% of college scholar graduates secured employment, and the majority entered sectors in education (20%), nonprofit organizations (20%), and consulting (17%). Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Teach for America were the top 2022 employers.
Where 2022 College Scholar Graduates Work
| Employer | Job Titles |
|---|---|
| Carnegie Endowment for International Peace | Junior Fellow |
| Deloitte Consulting | Business Technology Analyst |
| MasterCard | Software Engineer |
| McKinsey & Company | Business Analyst |
| New York Times | News Assistant |
| Teach for America | Corps Member |
| WarnerMedia | News Associate |
