Meet the Dean of Dyson: Jinhua Zhao
Learn more about Jinhua Zhao, the David J. Nolan Dean of the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management.
Our Business is a Better World
Innovation, intellectual curiosity, and a collective drive to change the world for the better—this is what fuels our vibrant learning community.
Business and societal impact intersect at the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management. Immersive, practical, and academically rigorous, our programs will deepen your knowledge of economic theory, sharpen your business acumen, and develop critical skills for today’s—and tomorrow’s—competitive global marketplace.
Dyson Distinctions
Among the nation’s top applied economics and management programs, the Dyson School offers high-quality career-focused undergraduate and graduate degrees.
- #2 Business Program Poets & Quants ranked Dyson among the best undergraduate business schools in the country in 2025.
- 11,395 Alumni Dyson graduates make a difference in companies and communities around the world.
- More than 1,200 Dyson Students Our ambitious undergraduate and graduate students excel academically and professionally.
- Founded in 1911 Part of Cornell University, Dyson’s school of business has been preparing future leaders for more than a century.
Why Choose the Dyson School for Your Applied Economics and Management Degree?
At Dyson, you’ll find a diverse and distinguished faculty, a curriculum based on real-world problem-solving, and practical career planning resources. But the value of a Dyson degree extends well beyond your time on campus. Members of our community stay connected to Cornell and each other—personally and professionally—long after graduation.
Applied Economics and Management Programs
Real-world learning experiences focused on solving real-world issues is the hallmark of Dyson programs, whether you’re an undergraduate applied economics and management (AEM) major, working toward a graduate degree in applied economics, or are earning a professional certificate.
Explore AEM Degree
Undergraduate Programs
With strong ties to the Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), our undergraduate AEM curriculum and immersive learning opportunities reinforce the value of ethical and sustainable business practices. The flexibility to add a concentration(s) and minor, a Dyson AEM degree prepares you for professional success in an incredible range of fields.
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Graduate Programs
Advance your education (and career) with the Dyson School’s graduate-level applied economics and management programs, which include a master’s of science (MS), a master’s in professional studies (MPS), and a STEM-designated Ph.D. Learn and research alongside some of the best in the industry while building subject matter expertise of your own.
Executive Education Details
Executive Education
Enhance your credentials with a professional certificate in data science, leadership, or another in-demand area. Designed and authored by top faculty at SC Johnson College of Business, executive education programs are available in a variety of formats geared toward working professionals. Customizable options for team development are also available.
Industry Advantages: Our Expertise Gives You an Edge
Dyson faculty members are among the world’s leading researchers, innovators, and practitioners in financial services, consulting, technology, consumer packaged goods, and agribusiness.
Life at Dyson: An Immersive, Collaborative Learning Environment
It’s the best of all worlds: Dyson’s welcoming, small school environment is enriched with the resources of the renowned Cornell SC Johnson College of Business and Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, then further enhanced by the prestige of studying at Cornell University. You’ll build relationships with peers and professors as you participate in spirited classroom discussions, dynamic group projects, and immersive learning experiences. And with access to campus-wide academic, career, wellness, and other services, you’ll have plenty of support along the way.
Big Red, Big Impact: Students and Alumni on Their Dyson Experience
Dyson students and alumni credit their success in the classroom and beyond to rigorous academics, a strong core foundation, practical learning experiences, a myriad of support resources, and a strong peer network.
Dyson’s Distinguished Faculty: Collaborating for a Better World
Through scholarship, mentorship, leadership, and entrepreneurship, Dyson faculty make the world a better place. Not only are they award-winning educators, but they also publish original research, speak at international conferences, lead and consult companies, serve on nonprofit boards, and even patent products and services.
On and Around Campus: Dyson’s Vibrant Community
With its stunning scenery, historic buildings, and steady stream of activity, Cornell University is the heartbeat of Ithaca, New York. Our vibrant college town is nestled in one of the country’s most spectacular regions. We’d love to show you around, whether you meet us in person at the AgQuad or explore our campus from home.
Updates and Insights from the Dyson School
Explore Cornell Business News for features and updates on ground-breaking research, student experiences, and other applied economics and management stories from around the Ag Quad and beyond.
April 24, 2025
Dyson Students Do Business for the Greater Good
Student teams tackled problems ranging from growing sustainable crops in the Amazon to subsidizing music lessons in Ithaca during the Grand Challenges Impact Competition.
April 18, 2025
Social Networks Are Not Effective at Mobilizing Vaccination Uptake
Social networks are unlikely to persuade someone to embrace a new vaccine, reports Dyson professors Nancy Chau and Arnab Basu.
April 17, 2025
Earth Day Research: Powering the Future with Clean Energy
New SC Johnson College research shows primary contributors to recent clean energy patents are existing inventors rather than newcomers.
Upcoming Events: What’s Happening at Dyson
There’s always something happening on campus (or virtually) at Dyson’s school of business, from career planning seminars and networking events to industry conferences and compelling guest speakers.
Change the World With Us: Join the Dyson Community
The Dyson School’s applied economics and management (AEM) programs prepare you to succeed in an array of industries, sectors, and specialties. Undergraduate AEM majors tailor their academic path to fit career goals through concentrations, minors, or a second major; and graduate students delve into faculty-mentored research projects that match their professional interests.