Degree overview
The Cornell University Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) is designed for adults who want to complete their bachelor’s degree without putting their life on hold.
This part-time, fully online degree program combines the flexibility of virtual learning with all the benefits of a Cornell education and degree.
As a BPS student, you’ll join a diverse community of learners and gain skills that matter, all while applying what you learn to your career and community. You’ll have access to:
- Dedicated academic advising
- Career services tailored for adult learners
- Technical support for online learning
- Networking opportunities with Cornell faculty and peers
- The vast Cornell alumni network
Applications for the first major in this program, a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Organizations, Markets, and Society, will open in January 2027. The first cohort of students will start their degree in August 2027.
Eligibility
The Cornell BPS is designed for
- Adults who wish to complete their bachelor’s degree at Cornell
- Community college students and alumni
- Cornell employees and other working professionals
To be eligible
- You must be at least four years beyond high school or secondary school graduation. (An exception may be made if you earned your GED at least four years after you would have completed traditional secondary school.)
- You must have earned 45 to 60 transferable college credits from a regionally accredited institution. (Please note that dual-enrollment course credits might not transfer.)
- We recommend that you have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Applicants with a lower GPA may be considered based on professional experience and a statement of academic readiness.
Are you an international student? Please contact us to determine your eligibility to apply for this degree. Note that as a part-time, online program, we cannot issue visas.
Instructional format
BPS degree courses are Cornell undergraduate courses delivered online, mostly asynchronously.
The asynchronous format means you’ll access lectures, readings, and assignments on your own schedule, allowing you to better balance study with work and family responsibilities.
Faculty are drawn from across Cornell’s schools and colleges and collaborate closely with SCE and eCornell to develop and deliver high-quality, engaging online learning experiences.
You may enter during a Fall or Spring semester and are expected to complete your degree within five years.
The BPS degree is administered by Cornell University’s School of Continuing Education (SCE).