CAU Summer is a two-week learning program held on Cornell University’s campus, offering a variety of courses taught by Cornell faculty. Participants attend for one or two weeks to engage in seminars, experiential learning, and active outdoor opportunities.

The program is open to Cornell alumni, friends, family, and anyone seeking an immersive educational experience. While we welcome lifelong learners from all backgrounds, participants must be at least 18 years old to join the program.

If you miss being a student on the Hill, there’s a way to revisit those days—including dorm life, but minus the grades...Read More

CAU Summer 2025 Course Roster

Courses include seminar-style lectures, hands-on workshops, and outdoor activities that leverage the Finger Lakes region’s unique opportunities.

Each participant selects one course for the week, as courses run simultaneously. If you'd like to take more than one course, join us for two weeks!

The course selection varies per week. When you register for both weeks, you get to learn more, deepen your relationships, and enjoy independent excursions and adventures between sessions. When you stay for two weeks, you can choose to take related courses or mix it up from week to week.

CAU Summer courses are non-credit and designed purely for personal enrichment. While many faculty provide resource and/or reading lists there is no required reading.

Courses typically run from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Wednesday afternoons are free for excursions or personal time.

Courses do not meet on Wednesday afternoons, affectionately referred to as "Spring Break," so you can take advantage of the other learning opportunities and optional excursions available on and off campus.

NEW in 2025: Stay tuned for details on how you can opt to take a Spring Break Mini Session to maximize learning time on campus.

Participants can join group dinners, midweek mini-seminars, and excursions to explore the Ithaca area for an additional fee. Commuters participants (those not staying in RBG dorm) can opt to pay an additional fee to attend the evening social lounge in RBG which includes alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and light hors douveres.

Registration for CAU Summer 2025 opens on January 31, 2025.
Registration closes on June 10, 2025.
Registration to stay in the dorm is separate from registration for your course.
Dorm registration is available here.

You can register through the CAU Summer website starting January 31st. Be sure to secure your spot early, as courses fill quickly.

In April, registered participants receive access to the CAU Summer Info Portal where you can stay up to date on details related to your course, download suggested reading materials, and more. A few weeks prior to your arrival, join your fellow participants on Zoom to meet your professor and start getting to know one another.

There are three types of courses listed on the Course Roster which opens Friday, January 31st:

Premium: $2,025 Commuter / $2,425 Dorm Resident
Premium courses offer an elevated educational experience. Often in a unique setting or featuring two or more faculty members, coaches, and support staff, Premium courses offer an enriched learning environment so you can engage deeply with course content. To complement in-class learning, students may enjoy unique out-of-classroom experiences, such as private tours, special dinners, hands-on explorations of fine wines/specialty foods, or a class-specific picnic, all crafted to offer a truly memorable educational journey.

Plus: $1,625 Commuter / $2,025 Dorm Resident
Our Plus courses add a touch of distinction to the learning experience, and may feature specialty equipment or exclusive locations. In addition to engaging classroom sessions, Plus courses provide an immersive environment for discovery and practice. Plus courses are designed to deepen your engagement and expand your understanding of the subject in ways that will inspire and enrich your learning.

Classic: $1,500 Commuter / $1,900 Dorm Resident
Classic courses are the heart of the CAU Summer experience. Within the familiar classroom format, these courses promise engaging discussions, interactive activities, and deep dives into topics that matter. Expect a welcoming and dynamic learning atmosphere where faculty are dedicated to fostering student participation and providing thoughtful, personalized attention. Classic courses offer rigorous instruction with an open exchange of ideas in a traditional and inspiring classroom setting.

If you are a Commuter, your course price includes:

• your course
• any course-specific costs
• any meals that are part of the curriculum
• class trips
• Sunday night welcome reception
• daily coffee breaks & snacks
• afternoon tours
• evening lectures
• Friday evening farewell reception and banquet
• TCAT bus pass
• one-week parking pass

If you are a Commuter, your course price does not include:

• housing
• most meals
• CAU Social Lounge (But you can opt to add it on during registration!)
• Red Runner Transportation
• central campus or accessible parking permits

You can learn more and customize your experience during registration.

If you are a Dorm Resident, your course price includes: 

• your course
• any course-specific costs
• any meals that are part of the curriculum
• class trips
• Sunday night welcome reception
• daily coffee breaks & snacks
• afternoon tours
• evening lectures
• Friday evening farewell reception and banquet
• TCAT bus pass
• one-week parking pass

PLUS the CAU Concierge Experience Package:

• concierge service
• luggage assistance
• full-time CAU Social Lounge access
• on-demand morning coffee, tea, and snacks
• beer, wine, and light bites during evening lounge hours
• one-week gym & pool pass
• limited on-campus shuttle service
• the convenience of close proximity to hosted pay-as-you-go meals in Toni Morrison Dining Hall

If you are a Dorm Resident, your course price does not include:

• housing: go here to book your dorm housing!
• most meals
• Red Runner Transportation
• central campus or accessible parking permits

You can learn more and customize your experience during registration.

If you are planning to be a Dorm Resident, you can:

• Book your dorm stay here
• See dorm pricing

Participants may stay in on-campus dormitories, the Statler Hotel, or commute from nearby accommodations.

Except for the Friday night Farewell Dinner and some course-specific meals, meals are not included in the base program fee to allow flexibility. You can join pay-as-you-go hosted group meals at Toni Morrison Dining Hall or dine on your own at various locations on or near campus.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RBG) Hall, located on Cornell's North Campus, is Cornell's newest dormitory. The CAU Summer Welcome Desk and Social Lounge are located on the ground floor of RBG. Book your stay on-campus in the dorm here.

Please note: dorm room booking is separate from course registration.

• Book your dorm stay
• See dorm pricing

For questions about dorm rooms, please use the "contact us" button at the bottom of the dorm registration page.

Staying in the dorm puts you at the heart of CAU Summer. You’ll enjoy Cornell’s most modern accommodations, designed for comfort and convenience. Each room features WiFi, climate control, and ergonomic furniture to ensure you can relax and recharge. Kitchens on every floor give you the flexibility to prepare your own snacks or meals, while proximity to CAU Summer headquarters means you’re steps away from classes, lectures, and events.

The dorm also includes exclusive amenities to elevate your experience, like access to CAU concierge services offering everything from personalized assistance to gourmet coffee whenever you want it. In the evenings, unwind with hosted happy hours, connect with fellow participants, and make the most of your time in a vibrant, welcoming community. Plus, with easy access to Cornell’s award-winning RBG Dining Hall, your dining needs are always covered. With only 50 spots available each week, staying in the dorm is a unique and sought-after opportunity to immerse yourself fully in CAU Summer.

Another on-campus option is Cornell's Statler Hotel. Use code CAU when booking by phone or online to enjoy a 10% discount on your stay at the Statler.

• Book Week One, July 6 - 12, 2025
• Book Week Two, July 13 -19, 2025

Yes, CAU Summer is a fantastic experience whether you stay in the dorms, commute from local accommodations, or travel from home. Commuting offers unmatched flexibility while allowing you full access to the program’s enriching courses and activities.

As a commuter, you can tailor your experience by attending just the course or enhancing your time with optional add-ons like the hosted happy hours and pay-as-you-go breakfasts or dinners at Cornell’s award-winning RBG Dining Hall. Commuting allows you to enjoy the charm of Ithaca while participating fully in the CAU Summer community.

Commuters receive a complimentary parking pass for A Lot and a free TCAT bus pass, making it easy to travel between your local accommodations, the Cornell campus, and downtown Ithaca.

There are many great accommodation options in and around Ithaca, including bed and breakfasts, hotels, and vacation rentals. For ideas, check out Visit Ithaca.

Whether you're commuting in each day or staying on campus, every day is full of opportunities for connection. Meet up in the evening in the Social Lounge, get inspired at the Evening Lecture, explore a new part of campus during an afternoon tour, and more! Take this chance to rediscover the fun of learning, really dive into what fascinates you, and build new friendships with fellow participants all along the way.

SUNDAY:
Orientation & Reception: Join us on the afternoon of your arrival for a warm introduction to the CAU Summer experience! During this orientation, we’ll provide you with everything you need to feel at home for the week ahead. You’ll receive an overview of the program schedule, key logistics, and answers to common questions—ensuring you’re fully prepared to dive into your courses and activities.

After the orientation, mingle with fellow participants and faculty at a welcoming reception. Connect with others who share your enthusiasm for learning and discovery. This is your opportunity to meet the brilliant Cornell faculty leading your courses and to begin building a sense of community that will define your time at CAU Summer.

Then, head over to Toni Morrison Dining for the optional pay-as-you-go Hosted Dinner with fellow participants, faculty, and the CAU Team. Enjoy CAU Summer's hallmark community spirit as we dine together in the CAU section where we will gather for meals together throughout the week.

Later, head to the Social Lounge in RBG Hall. Featuring an open wine and beer bar, a great playlist, and good company, the Social Lounge is a daily CAU Summer favorite.

MONDAY:
Morning: Gather in RBG Hall and walk together with your CAU host to enjoy pay-as-you-go breakfast together at Cornell Dining, "like the old days."
Daytime: Class in session
Evening: Join fellow participants for the hosted pay-as-you-go dinner. Walk together, sit together, and enjoy the camaraderie of  bygone years in a new form. Later, residents and  commuters (for an additional fee) can visit the daily Social Lounge in RBG for included drinks, snacks.
Keynote Address: Get inspired by the Keynote Address. Residents can take the provided shuttle between RBG and central campus.

TUESDAY:
Morning: Gather in RBG Hall and walk together with your CAU host to enjoy pay-as-you-go breakfast together at Cornell Dining.
Daytime: Class in session
Evening: Join fellow participants for the hosted pay-as-you-go dinner. Walk together, sit together, and enjoy the camaraderie of  bygone years in a new form. Later, residents and  commuters (for an additional fee) can visit the daily Social Lounge in RBG for included drinks, snacks.
Evening Lecture: Attend tonight's lecture. Residents can take the provided shuttle between RBG and central campus.

WEDNESDAY:
Morning: Gather in RBG Hall and walk together with your CAU host to enjoy pay-as-you-go breakfast together at Cornell Dining.
Daytime: Class in session
After Lunch: Enjoy "Spring Break" as your class is not in session on Wednesday afternoon. Take this time to explore campus or the Ithaca area, or opt to take the Spring Break Mini Session to maximize learning time on campus.
Evening: Join fellow participants for the hosted pay-as-you-go dinner. Walk together, sit together, and enjoy the camaraderie of  bygone years in a new form. Later, residents and  commuters (for an additional fee) can visit the daily Social Lounge in RBG for included drinks, snacks.
Evening Activity: Join CAU Bingo in the Social Lounge at RBG.

THURSDAY:
Morning: Gather in RBG Hall and walk together with your CAU host to enjoy pay-as-you-go breakfast together at Cornell Dining.
Daytime: Class in session
Evening: Join fellow participants for the hosted pay-as-you-go dinner. Walk together, sit together, and enjoy the camaraderie of  bygone years in a new form. Later, residents and  commuters (for an additional fee) can visit the daily Social Lounge in RBG for included drinks, snacks.
Evening Lecture: Attend tonight's lecture. Residents can take the provided shuttle between RBG and central campus.

FRIDAY:
Daytime: Class in session
Evening: Celebrate your CAU Summer experience with friends and faculty at tonight's Farewell Reception followed by the Farewell Banquet where your faculty will be honored. Many participants enjoy dressing up a bit for this special evening together.

SATURDAY: Check out day. See you next summer!

Guests who are not taking a CAU course can pay a la carte pricing to partake of optional activities as detailed on the registration form.

Cornell has one of the finest dining programs in the Ivy League. CAU Summer participants can enjoy meals at a variety of campus eateries. Go here for a list of on campus eateries with summer hours. You can sort the list by checking the box "open today" and "nearest first." You can pay by credit card at all Cornell eateries.

In 2025, we are reintroducing hosted group breakfasts and dinners in Cornell Dining that will all be pay-as-you-go to provide you with the most flexibility possible. These meals will be hosted by a combination of the CAU team, Cornell staff, and CAU Summer faculty.

It's easy to find a great campus eatery close to your classroom. Some course groups opt to eat together on campus. This is optional and pay-as-you-go. If you are in the Sailing or Week Two Ornithology course, your lunch time may differ slightly from the typical schedule. For Golf participants, lunch is available at the course restaurant for an additional fee.  You may wish to pack your lunch and bring it along.  If your course is taking a field trip, lunch may be provided.

Click the link above to fill out the Cornell Dining form to share your particular dietary needs and arrange for accommodation during CAU Summer.

Yes, we strive to make CAU Summer inclusive. Please contact us with your needs when registering.

Ithaca is accessible by car, bus, or flights to Ithaca Tompkins International Airport.

• Arriving by air
  Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport is 10 minutes from Cornell's Ithaca campus. Taxis and car services are available at the Ithaca airport to bring you to campus.
  Syracuse Hancock International Airport is about an hour from campus. There is no public transportation between the Syracuse Airport and Ithaca, but limos and Ubers are generally available.
• Arriving by bus
  Buses arrive and leave from various downtown locations. Coach USA Shortline and the Campus-to-Campus Bus Service will also pick up and drop off on campus.
  Campus can be reached from downtown by taxi, car services, and local TCAT buses.
  Ithaca is served by Coach USA Shortline (800.631.8405), Greyhound (800.231.2222), and OurBus (844.800.6828).
  The Campus-to-Campus Bus Service runs between Ithaca and New York City. Learn more here
• Arriving by car
  Detailed driving directions will be emailed to you in your Welcome Packet after you enroll in CAU Summer. For general directions to the Ithaca campus, see the university's Maps page. Once you arrive on campus, look for CAU signs to best direct you to our Program Headquarters and the CAU Hospitality Desk at Ruth Bader Ginsburg Hall.

Which course you register will determine your comfort with having or not having a car. For instance, if you take the Sailing course which is held at the Merrill Sailing Center on Cayuga Lake, you will need a car to get to class. In general, many people prefer to have access to a car throughout the program in order to be able to explore the surrounding area as well as campus locations.

Your program fee includes a week-long parking pass for A Lot. No passes are needed on Saturdays and Sundays. You will also receive a TCAT bus pass. The bus makes stops at A Lot as well as throughout campus.

If you want to be able to park on central campus, you can park in a metered spot and pay as you go. Please visit Short-term Parking Options to learn more about the system used for metered parking on central campus. No passes are needed on Saturdays and Sundays.

If you need an accessible parking pass, please visit Facilities and Campus Services to learn more. In general, most classroom buildings have several accessible spaces nearby. A pass is required. You can purchase the pass on Monday morning after 7:00 a.m. No passes are needed on Saturdays and Sundays.

Yes! You will be provided with a free week-long bus pass to ride the TCAT (Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit) which provides bus service to all parts of the Cornell campus and downtown Ithaca. There is a TCAT stop conveniently located outside of the Appel Community Center, which is adjacent to Ruth Bader Ginsburg Hall. The TCAT map of routes, schedule, and instructions are available at the CAU Hospitality Desk in the Program Headquarters at Ruth Bader Ginsburg Hall. Visit the TCAT website for more information.

• Johnson Museum of Art
• Lab of Ornithology
• Cornell Libraries
• Liberty Hyde Bailey Conservatory
• Helen Newman Bowling Lanes
• Cornell Botanic Gardens
• Cornell Store
• McGraw Clock Tower
• Cornell Events

Your program fee includes a one-week Gym & Pool pass for campus pools. There are a number of options for safe and legal swimming in the Ithaca area. Please note that swimming in the gorges is prohibited. Note: All campus fitness centers require you to show a photo ID and your one-week CAU Gym & Pool pass to participate.

With four summer locations around campus, Cornell Fitness Center provides an extensive variety of cardio and weight equipment and group exercise classes. Note: All campus fitness centers require you to show a photo ID and your one-week CAU Gym & Pool pass to participate.

• Helen Newman Gymnasium
  Helen Newman Hall offers a range of facilities and activities, including basketball, volleyball, swimming and bowling. Phone: 607.255.4261
• Reis Tennis Center
  Indoor and outdoor courts can be reserved at the Reis Tennis Center. Phone: 607.272.0037
• Robert Trent Jones Golf Course
  Located just across Pleasant Grove Road, the golf course provides an excellent opportunity for golf enthusiasts. Call for reservations. Phone: 607.254.6531

Cornell's main campus is in Ithaca, New York, one of the best college towns in the country. Located at the south end of Cayuga Lake in the heart of the beautiful Finger Lakes region, Ithaca offers a breathtaking landscape of deep gorges and thundering waterfalls, rolling hills with farms and forests, and a lively community with shops, art galleries, and great places to eat (including the world-famous Moosewood Restaurant). For information about things to do in the area—music, dance, cinema, sports, hiking, swimming, shopping, and more—check out these resources:

• Cayuga Lake Wine Trail
• Finger Lakes Beer Trail
• Finger Lakes Discovery Trail
• Ithaca Food & Drink
• Nearby State Parks
• Seneca Lake Wine Trail

CAU participants must be at least 18 years old. Visit the Tompkins County Summer Camp Guide for Ithaca area options for youth.

To cancel your enrollment, send written notification of your wish to withdraw to cauinfo@cornell.edu. Your official date of withdrawal will be the date on which this email is sent. (If you booked your stay at RBG, the Statler, or another accommodation, you must cancel those reservations separately. For RBG dorm cancelations please contact: ceshelp@cornell.edu  For Statler Hotel cancelations please call 607-254-2500.)

CAU Summer 2025 Cancellation Refund Schedule:

• If you cancel by Tuesday, April 1, 2025: Full refund
• If you cancel by Tuesday, May 20, 2025: 50% refund
• If you cancel by Tuesday, June 10, 2025: 25% refund
• If you cancel after Tuesday, June 10, 2025: No refund

If a course is canceled, you’ll be offered the option to switch to another course or receive a full refund.

CAU is unable to accommodate requests for refunds outside of the stated refund schedule.
We encourage you to purchase the insurance of your choice to protect your investment in CAU Summer programming.

“The breadth of courses given, and the depth of the courses are excellent. The organization of the entire event was also excellent. It was a well-run activity.”
—Ron Livecchi '70

Cornell’s Adult University
Cornell University Alumni Affairs and Development
cauinfo@cornell.edu