Jointly sponsored seminars and courses in polymers are another feature of the program at Cornell. It has been university policy to encourage and facilitate the interdisciplinary approach. Nonetheless, the recognition of the value of such interactions by individual faculty and students has led the way to a mutually respected and cooperative atmosphere for graduate research. Outstanding research facilities for graduate study are available in the New York State College of Human Ecology and the College of Engineering, as well as throughout the university. The nineteen university libraries contain more than 5 million volumes.
Some libraries have study carrels that can be assigned to graduate students on a yearly basis.
In addition, Van Rensselaer Hall houses one of the general access computer facilities with both remote terminals and microcomputers available for use by faculty and students. Offered Graduate study in the Field of Textiles leads to the doctorate in fiber science or the master's in fiber science, apparel design, or textiles. Candidates for the Ph.D. require at least three years of full-time study beyond the master's degree. Candidates for the M.S. or M.A. usually complete their degree requirements within two years. A written thesis is required for all advanced degrees administered by the Field of Textiles.