Get Your Degree!

Get information on programs from our featured schools.

What is Entomology?

Entomology is a branch of zoology emphasizing the analysis, classification, and study of arthropods and invertebrates that include insects.  To date, there are approximately 1.3 million known species on earth and insects account for over two-thirds of those species.  While entomology focuses on the study of insects, it does overlap with a number of other professions that include: biomechanics, molecular genetics, biology, behavior, systematics, developmental biology, ecology, physiology, paleontology, and morphology.

Entomologists may elect to remain a generalist or specialize in their field of study.  Specializations for an entomologist may include the following tracks:

  • Vespology
  • Coleopterology
  • Trichopterology
  • Dipterology
  • Hemipterology
  • Isopterology
  • Orthopterology
  • Myrmecology
  • Melittology
  • Isopterology

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$62,920

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

41.09%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

36,100

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Entomology Degree

Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) is a notable public research university in the United States. Cornell has a competitive academic program and a cutting-edge research program. The university is recognized as a statutory Ivy League member. Cornell’s best-reviewed programs are under social and life sciences, humanities, law, science and technology, and international programs. Cornell houses one of the top-ranked entomology degree programs in the country. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Undergraduates can experience real-life settings through internship programs. The university also fosters cross-college collaborations, allowing students to explore new fields of study. 

Acceptance Rate

10.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

University of Florida (Gainesville, FL) is the flagship university of the state. UFl is known to be one of the largest single campus universities in the country. The university is considered as a “Public Ivy” and one of the most prestigious higher educational institutions in FL. Professional degrees are also offered to students who are interested to pursue dentistry, law, and pharmacy. The Department of Entomology and Nematology offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Certificates are awarded for the undergraduate level and master’s degree for graduate level. Programs are delivered online. It also provides The application in the university is considered as highly competitive. 

Acceptance Rate

36.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

University of California - Davis (Davis, CA) homes the largest variety of degree programs among the University of California campuses. UC Davis has more than 100 undergraduate and 80 graduate degree programs and specializations. The university takes pride in its agriculture and environment-related programs. The university also has an active research program and its programs in agricultural economics, entomology, evolutionary biology, plant biology, and ecology are highly recognized. Entomology is offered as an undergraduate major and minor. Graduate levels of studies are also open to interested students. Undergraduates are required to take fundamental biology courses before declaring entomology as a major. UCD has an award-winning faculty and notable alumni.

Acceptance Rate

38.87

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

University of Maryland - College Park (College Park, MA) offers highly recognized academic programs and is consistently named among best in the country. The university has programs for undergraduate and graduate degrees. Certification programs are also offered for some disciplines. Entomology degree is offered as a minor undergraduate program. The curriculum provides students the basic understanding of insects. Upon completion, students may pursue graduate studies on this branch of science. The University of Maryland is the flagship university of the state and it offers a variety of learning experiences including study abroad programs. The university also offers scholarships for interested and deserving students.  

Acceptance Rate

44.18

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

University of Georgia (Athens, GA) is a public university that offers a wide range of programs offered from humanities, sciences, education, up to health and medicine. UGA has a large number of continuing education students focused on public service and technology transfer related programs. UGA offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Entomology. The curriculum is also integrated with an active research program. The university also gives students the opportunity to study abroad with partners across the globe. The admission process in UGA is considered as highly selective.  

Acceptance Rate

45.3

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Ohio State University (Columbus, OH) is a public university and is considered the largest single campus university in the United States. The university is the top university in academics and research in the state. It is also listed among the leading research and teaching institutions in the United States. The university offers undergraduate and graduate Entomology degrees. Undergraduates who major in entomology can specialize in acarology, apiculture, pest management, arthropod physiology, systematic entomology, and toxicology. Students are also exposed to extension and outreach programs that focus on research that address the needs of the industry.  Ohio State has a diverse environment. Students and faculty are exposed to a number of cultures and all walks of life. The university also fosters an active Greek community. 

Acceptance Rate

53.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Clemson University (Clemson, SC) is a public university established to be a scientific agricultural and mechanical arts institution. Today, the university is divided into five colleges - Agriculture, Forestry and Life Science; Architecture, Arts and Humanities; Business and Behavioral Sciences; Engineering and Science; and Health, Education and Human Development. Students planning to take Plant and Environmental Sciences or Biology can take Entomology as a minor program. Students who complete this minor program are eligible to pursue graduate studies and careers in entomological science. A separate graduate school is dedicated to over 100 degree programs and unique interdisciplinary programs. Entomology graduate programs are also offered at Clemson. The university is also highly active with its research initiatives. Clemson University is consistently ranking among the best for its service, and academic and research performance.

Acceptance Rate

51.26

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

North Carolina State University at Raleigh (Raleigh, NC) is also known as “People’s University”. It is the largest public university in the state. This university is among the top local universities to receive research funding. The university fosters an active research culture. NC State has a strong list of academic programs ranging from the arts, humanities, up to sciences, engineering, and technology-based programs. Entomology and Plant Pathology offers undergraduate minor courses and graduate programs for interested students. Minor courses are delivered either on-campus or online. These courses will help students fulfill their program requirements. The graduate programs are designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills that will assist students in achieving their educational and professional goals. 

Acceptance Rate

45.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) is the flagship university of the state's higher education system. The university is among the universities with very high activity on research works. The university offers a wide range of academic and professional programs. UIUC is among the Top 25 American Research Universities according to The Center for Measuring University Performance. An undergraduate degree in entomology is offered as an Individual Plan of Study major. Graduates of this program are eligible to assume entry-level roles across research, development and technical sales, and expert environments. It recently launched an online learning system to expand academic offerings. 

Acceptance Rate

59.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

University of Minnesota- Twin Cities (Minneapolis, MN) is a public university divided into two campuses, St. Paul and Twin Cities. The university is recognized as a “Public Ivy” for its notable quality of education. The Twin Cities campus offers a wide range of programs for students to choose from including biological sciences, health and medicine, design, law, and education. The university also takes pride in a long list of discoveries and innovations from its students and faculty. An Insect Science Minor program is offered to interested students. The program offers a strong background in entomological principles and theory. Students are prepared to assume careers in related industries. The program also allows students to pursue graduate studies.  

Acceptance Rate

56.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Rutgers University-New Brunswick (New Brunswick, NJ) is a state university recognized for its history of scientific innovation. Rutgers is considered as one of the top research universities in the United States. New Brunswick campus is the largest among the three distinct campuses of the university. It also offers the most academic programs. Undergraduate major in entomology offers a strong scientific background and a great understanding of the importance of insects as organisms. The program will also allow students to develop skills on pest management, experimental design, and applications of molecular biology. Minor and graduate programs are also offered. Rutgers offers a variety of educational programs that are designed to be accessible, flexible, and adaptable for everyone.

Acceptance Rate

61.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Blacksburg, VA) commonly known as Virginia Tech is one of the top public research universities in the country. Virginia Tech is organized into eight colleges and a graduate school. Entomology is offered as an undergraduate minor and opportunities for graduate studies are also open. The Department of Entomology also focuses on providing research. It also manages educational facilities in six regions statewide and a study-abroad site in Switzerland. The institution is one of the three universities in the United States that still requires corps participation. 

Acceptance Rate

70.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Texas A & M University (College Station, TX) is a public research university that focuses on agriculture, environmental and marine sciences, and alike. The university has a long list of undergraduate programs and over 130 graduate programs. The Department of Entomology offers an undergraduate minor, double degree, and a graduate program for students who are interested to learn the basic and applied science of insects. Public Health Entomology is offered as a certificate program. The Department also has an extension program to provide students a more hands-on learning experience. A & M is also highly recognized for being a highly active research university boasting world-class research facilities and strong student and faculty researchers. It also holds the second largest student population in the United States. Texas A & M also manages campuses in Galveston and Qatar. 

Acceptance Rate

57.79

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Purdue University- Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) is one of the best public research universities in the country. The university leads on agricultural research, engineering, and environmental studies. Purdue University has a top-notch research program that is getting support and research grants from federal offices and NASA. The university has a wide range of academic programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Purdue University also offers professional programs in allied health. The Department of Entomology aims to contribute to the state and the nation by advancing the knowledge of students and the community about entomology. The Department offers Insect Biology as an undergraduate major and minor. Courses are focused on insect structure and function, behavior, ecology, and diversity and identification. 

Acceptance Rate

59.83

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

University of California- Riverside (Riverside, CA) is a public university offering a wide-range of academic programs. UCR is notable for its research contributions. The university holds the largest collection of research on  citrus diversity and entomology. Students in UCR are exposed to research activities. Programs are designed to teach students to address issues that are critical to developing communities. The Department of Entomology offers an undergraduate program that leads to either a BA or BS degree. A BS/MS program is also offered to students who want to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in a shorter period. UCR has been ranked among the top universities in the U.S. News & World Report. 

Acceptance Rate

56.52

Student to Faculty Ratio

23:1

Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI) is a public research university offering more than 200 academic programs and comprises 17-degree granting colleges allowing students to choose from a variety of programs they desire. Aside from a wide range of undergraduate programs, the school is also active in research. The Entomology degree is offered at MSU as both an undergraduate major and minor program. Students who choose to major in this program can also choose a track they want to specialize in - Pre-Veterinary/Pre-Medical Sciences, Integrated Pest Management & Pest Science, and Ecology & Sustainability Sciences. MSU ranks among the top 100 universities around the world. The admission process in MSU is competitive, however, the university still has one of the largest student populations in the country. 

Acceptance Rate

71.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

University of Delaware (Newark, DE) is considered as a private-public research university. It is organized into eight colleges offering bachelor's, master’s, and associate’s degrees. The university is highly active on its research programs. The Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources extends its research activities to laboratories, greenhouses, forest, gardens, and with local industries, and organizations. This allows students including freshmen to develop a research culture. Insect Ecology and Conservation is offered to students who are interested to major in Entomology. UD has a notable history being the first American university to offer a study-abroad program. UD has a long list of award-winning, and relevant alumni across a variety of fields. 

Acceptance Rate

71.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

University of Hawaii at Manoa (Manoa Valley, HI) is a public university that offers academic programs and practices a high research activity. UH M?noa is organized into 17 schools and colleges. The university houses a long list of undergraduate and graduate programs including professional degrees, and certification programs. An Entomology major is offered at the graduate level granting both Master’s and Ph.D. degrees. Master’s degree students can choose either a thesis or non-thesis track. Ph.D. students will gain a more in-depth knowledge of the area of study and can assume roles as teachers, scholars, and industry professionals. 

Acceptance Rate

58.47

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College (Baton Rouge, LA) is a public university notable for its excellent research activities. It is the flagship institution of the Louisiana State University System, and is the most comprehensive university in the state. LSU’s undergraduate and graduate programs are organized into 17 schools and colleges. A degree in Entomology is offered at the graduate level. The department has active extension and outreach programs that broaden the knowledge of students to the discipline. The department also manages an Insect Museum inside the campus. The university has plenty of active student organizations and LSU fosters a strong commitment to its community through community service and partnerships. 

Acceptance Rate

74.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

San Jose State University (San Jose, CA) is a public university and considered as the oldest university in the West Coast. It has a long list of undergraduate and master’s programs plus several doctoral programs. Psychology, kinesiology, biological sciences, business administration, and communications are just some of the popular undergraduate programs in SJSU. Entomology is an undergraduate course offered to students who major in biology. Students are provided with hands-on and inquiry-based learning activities allowing them to learn through experience and research. 

Acceptance Rate

63.57

Student to Faculty Ratio

26:1

Oklahoma State University (Stillwater, OK) is a public university that has a wide range of academic programs. The university was established as Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College (Oklahoma A&M). The Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology offers undergraduate and graduate programs that provide practice learning experience fit for any entomological career. Undergraduates have the opportunity for internships, and one-on-one research experiences with a faculty mentor. The program offers three major concentrations: Bio-Forensics, Insect Biology and Ecology, Pre-Veterinary & Medical; as well as an Entomology minor. 

Acceptance Rate

69.98

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Colorado State University (Fort Collins, CO) is a public research university that was established as an agricultural college. The university offers over 100 programs across eight colleges. Some of the popular programs are biomedical sciences, engineering, environmental science, agriculture, and human health and nutrition. Entomology is offered as an undergraduate minor. Agricultural Biology major offers several entomology-related courses preparing students for a broad exposure to different related disciplines. Bioagricultural Sciences is a master's program that offers an Entomology specialization. 

Acceptance Rate

81.35

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

University of Arkansas (Fayetteville, AR) has a wide range of academic program offers. The university covers from history to drama, engineering to geosciences, and accounting to animal science. The University of Arkansas has an active research program. Students are encouraged to participate in research, development and inventions. Entomology is offered at the graduate level leading to either a master's or Ph.D. degree. Assistantship opportunities are open for students who are looking for funding assistance for their graduate studies. The university boasts notable faculty and award-winning alumni. Graduates from this program can assume roles across a variety of related disciplines. 

Acceptance Rate

77.09

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Iowa State University (Ames, IA) also known as Iowa State University of Science and Technology is a public research university that offers a wide range of academic programs. The university's agriculture and forestry programs ranked 16th in the world by QS last 2020. Insect Science is no longer offered in the university, however, there are still a minor program and graduate academic opportunities offered. The minor undergraduate program provides foundation in the biological sciences with an emphasis on insects. ISU entomology graduates will gain advanced knowledge about the discipline allowing them to assume roles across a variety of industries. 

Acceptance Rate

92.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

University of Nebraska - Lincoln (Lincoln, NE) is a public university notable for its long list of “firsts”. One of UNL’s firsts is its establishment of ecology as an academic discipline. UNL is also recognized in research through the works of its faculty and scholars. UNL students are also actively participating in activities outside campus that highlights their competence, intellect, and skills. The university offers both graduate and undergraduate programs. Interested freshmen can take Insect Biology as an undergraduate major at the university. Master's program in entomology is offered through online or on-campus. The area of study is also open to interested Ph.D. students. 

Acceptance Rate

78.23

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Degrees in Entomology

Prospective students that are considering a future in entomology will have a number of programs to choose from across a variety of colleges. From small community colleges to large public universities, the number of programs to choose from are broad. Likewise, degree programs range from undergraduate to graduate level and learning modalities including in-class and online.

To make the process more efficient for you, we have created summaries of the most popular degree programs below. This allows prospective students to quickly understand a degree path and collect information from top colleges all on one resource page.

Online Entomology Bachelor's Degrees

A bachelor degree can be earning in a traditional classroom setting or online. In either case, a bachelor degree will generally take full-time students 4-years to complete. Degrees in the field are conferred as a Bachelor of Science (BS) given the heavy emphasis on science. Courses in the first two years of the program will be split between general education and core curriculum. Liberal arts classes will include classes like philosophy, communications, history, psychology, economics, statistics, and sociology.

Core courses will not be replicated exactly from school to school. However, you can expect a general set of classes to be part of most programs. Examples of classed you may find in an accredited entomology degree program may include:

  • Biology
  • Wildlife Conservation
  • Ecology
  • General Chemistry
  • Elements of Entomology
  • Data Analysis
  • Soil Science
  • Taxonomy
  • Insect Structure and Functionality
  • Genetics
  • Plant Pathology
  • Research Methods and Data Analysis

Entomology Master's Degree Online

Earning a masters degree will take 1-2 years depending on the schools requirements and course load. Degrees in the field will be conferred as a Master of Science (MS). Master degree offering entomology degrees will likely have facilities with specialized labs, insectaries, greenhouses, growth chambers, optical systems, and DNA analysis equipment. MS programs will generally take two paths in terms of curriculum. One path is a self-directed program that allows students to create a degree plan in conjunction with an academic advisor.

The other graduate level path is a defined set of curricular guidelines and courses. For these type of programs, you will find a typical set of courses. Classes you will find in a course catalog may include:

  • Advanced Ecology
  • Wildlife Ecology
  • Insect Taxonomy
  • Wildlife Research
  • Insect Structure and Function
  • Behavioral Ecology
  • Ornithology
  • Population Ecology
  • Mammalogy
  • Herpetology

In addition to core courses and a capstone course, graduate students will be required to complete a thesis project. The scope of the thesis will depend on the schools requirements but will generally seek to advance the field of study in a significant manner.

PhD in Entomology

The doctoral degree in entomology is conferred as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). A PhD degree is known as a terminal degree as there are no additional degrees beyond it within the field of study.

PhD programs will take 3-5 years to complete as a function of the course requirements and time spent to complete the dissertation project. Classes will include upper-level courses in taxonomy, ecology, wildlife ecology, mammalogy, ornithology, herpetology, insect taxonomy, and insect functions.

Employment in Entomology

Entomology majors will possess a unique skillset given the coursework and specialization in the field.  Entomologists will find employment in a variety of organizations from local government and state government to private organizations and research firms.  Careers in the field can be parlayed into vocations such as college professor, research specialist, genomicist, biological tech, biomedical engineer, microbiologist, vespology, isopterology, dipterology, coleopterology, trichopterology, hemipterology, isopterology, myrmecology, melittology, and orthopterology.

What Can I Do with an Entomology Degree?

Students earning a degree in entomology will have a substantive amount of academic experience with ecology and insect taxonomy.  Careers in the field are vast given the ever-expanding technology and knowledge base in the science community.  After the successful completion of core courses, internships, thesis and/or dissertation projects, you will have a number of careers paths to consider.  The most popular careers for graduates in the field include:

  • Pesticide Research
  • Insect Ecology
  • Forensic Entomology
  • Biological Control
  • Pest Management
  • Genetics
  • Biologist
  • Nature Consulting
  • Environmental Education
  • Government Analyst
  • Public Policy Professional
  • Research Specialist
  • Author

Entomology Jobs & Career Growth

Entomology jobs are niche degree programs that are poised to remain robust. Entomology majors and biology majors can expect to see jobs in the industry increase by 9%. This rate of growth will add some 11,000 new jobs to the economy which creates opportunities for new and experienced professionals. Mean annual wages for entomologist is $74,960 which is $36.04 an hour. Compensation will fluctuate depending on the employment situation, work experience, and scope of the job.

ESA Resources for Entomology Majors

For additional information about the area of study, visit the Entomological Society of American (ESA). The global resources, events, policies, career resources, and membership benefits are world renown in the field. Sections of their website around policy, news, and legislative initiatives are frequently citied and highly reputable sources.

Featured Rankings

Find Your College Match

Sort By
PHP Code Snippets Powered By : XYZScripts.com