Currently enrolled Cornell University freshmen and sophomores who are interested in internally transferring to the College of Human Ecology (CHE) from another Cornell University college/school should thoroughly review the following information to prepare for the Internal Transfer process. You should also thoughtfully consider your academic interests and strengths as you explore CHE and our majors.

*Current Human Ecology students who are interested in changing to another CHE major need to complete the Change of Plan (Major) Form. Students can consult with CHE academic advisors to discuss their interests and this process and can contact the Human Ecology Registrar’s office with questions about the form.

Information Sessions [Fall 2020 update]

A CHE Internal Transfer Information Session is the best place for admissions and coursework advising. Prospective Internal Transfers are strongly encouraged, but not required, to attend/view a session (recorded on September 9, 2020) well in advance of applying. Information about live, Zoom-based sessions, typically offered once per semester, will be posted as they are scheduled. The Fall 2020 live session was offered on September 9, 2020.

In addition to attending a College of Human Ecology Internal Transfer Information Session, you can make an appointment with the Office of Internal Transfer and Concurrent Degrees in 222 Computing & Communications Center (CCC) for more information about the application process.

Internal transfer eligibility for the College of Human Ecology

  • Currently enrolled/matriculated Cornell University freshmen and sophomores can apply for an internal transfer. Juniors are rarely considered for an Internal Transfer.
  • Students must be in good academic, character, and disciplinary standing with Cornell University and their home college, and not have any pending status inquiries at the time of application.
  • Qualified premed/prehealth candidates should apply by the end of their freshmen year. High performing premed/prehealth sophomores might be considered. 

CHE Internal transfer selection criteria

The internal transfer process is selective and competitive. Admission to the Human Biology, Health, and Society (HBHS) major is extremely competitive, and only students who meet the coursework and GPA requirements should apply.

Internal transfer applicants should have:

  • a minimum Cornell University cumulative GPA of 3.0, with "B" or better grades in courses for your target major;
  • taken/in progress major and College-based required coursework; and
  • provided evidence of a strong, well-considered connection between your interests, extracurricular engagements, and your target major via the application essay.

Internal transfer application process

Admissions decisions

Internal transfer application decisions are made after final grades for the current semester have been received. Decision letters will be mailed to the address noted on your application. There is no appeal process.

Conditional transfer requirements

See below for the requirements of the Conditional Transfer semester. Your potential admission to the College for the following semester is contingent upon successful completion of the listed requirements.

  1. Your Conditional Transfer semester course schedule must be approved by a College of Human Ecology Admissions Counselor by the end of the first week of classes.
              - All courses should be consistent with the requirements in your proposed major.
              - At least half of your academic credits must be College of Human Ecology courses and must be taken for a letter grade.
              - Any changes to your academic schedule throughout the semester must also be pre-approved.
  2. Complete 12 -- 15 academic credits and earn a minimum semester grade point average of 3.0 with B+ or better grades in courses related to your College of Human Ecology major.
  3. Remain in good academic and character standing.

Contact us

Attended a session and have additional questions? Email us.