In exploring how technologies such as robots, drones, sensors, machine learning, data models, information systems, networking solutions, cell phone applications, and more are being developed and applied to sustainably address issues in food systems involving plant, animal, and soil, this minor will provide you with a great introduction to, and initial foundation in, contemporary digital agriculture research and practice. You will come to understand the agricultural, technological, societal, organizational, occupational, and environmental considerations facing researchers, farmers, industry, and other stakeholders as they seek to feed the world’s population in safe, profitable, and efficient ways that are sustainable for the planet and equitable for its people.

In our introductory course, you’ll see digital agriculture solutions in action through visits to local farms and hear from top Cornell researchers across agriculture and life sciences, computing and information sciences, engineering, veterinary medicine, food safety, and social science domains. You will participate on student teams in the CIDA hackathon, where industry and faculty mentors will guide you to strong solutions and judges will determine winners. The minor offers ample choices in electives to suit the needs and interests of students from across the university, which means you will be making new friends and connections outside your own major.