Entomology

What’s it’s about:

Entomology deals with the biology and economic importance of insects and their relatives. If you are interested in understanding the diversity of insects in all their habitats, or their impact on human health and resources, you may find this major a better match than the broader life sciences majors.

What the study of this major is like:

Entomology evolved into a field of its own because of the enormous impact insects have on humans. Some entomologists teach farmers how to use efficient, environmentally safe methods of pest control. Others work in forest management or in ornamental plant industries to protect trees from destructive bugs. Still others, employed by public health agencies, help ranchers deal with insects that plague livestock. Entomologists also conduct basic research in ecology, physiology, toxicology, genetics, and biotechnology, since insects can serve as test organisms for the examination of principles common to all animal life.

Before you begin study in entomology, you take introductory courses in plant and animal biology and in chemistry (including organic chemistry). Because entomology is a biological science, you will be taking biology courses throughout your undergraduate studies. From a general entomology course you progress to advanced classes in the morphology, taxonomy, physiology, ecology, and behaviour or insects. Other advanced courses may deal with the importance of insects to human health and welfare (for example, pest management or medical entomology).elective courses include plant physiology, plant pathology, nematology (nematodes or round-worms), microbiology, parasitology, agricultural engineering, agronomy, sociology, and economics.

Laboratories are an important part of many entomology courses. In some courses, you may even be required to collect insects. You will probably be encouraged to conduct an independent research project under the supervision of a professor. The electives you choose should reflect your educational and career objectives. If, after college, you plan to go directly into pest management you should take courses in other agricultural sciences, such as weed science or plant pathology. If, on the other hand, you would like to go to graduate school, take advanced courses in biology and entomology that relate to your interests.

Entomology is not generally offered as an undergraduate major except in large public research universities and land grant colleges. Some programs may focus more on pest management (usually those in agricultural departments); others emphasize basic science.

Career options and trends:

Urban or agricultural pest management specialist*; government research technician or scientist; university research technician*; industry researcher; industry technical or sales representative; university extension agent.

Entry-level positions in industry and government may be obtained with a bachelor’s degree, but a graduate degree is required for most research and upper-level, jobs.

Source: CollegeBoard 2012 Book of Majors