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Entomology

College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences

  • Bachelor of Science

Did you know that insects are the most diverse group of animals on earth? Insects offer unique opportunities to study biological systems and are model experimental animals. Many insects are either pests or beneficial species that have great importance to the economy, environment or public health. Students in the entomology major will learn about environmentally sound methods of controlling domestic and agricultural pests. They will study ways to increase the productivity of economically useful insects such as honeybees and learn about ways to monitor the health of insect populations throughout the world.

Major Requirements

After completing a series of foundation courses in natural sciences and mathematics, you will enroll in basic courses in insect biology, including hands-on work in collection and identification. You may tailor your major to your interests by choosing courses in areas such as arthropod pest management, apiculture (bee biology and productivity), economic entomology or insect ecology. Electives such as forensic entomology (the use of arthropod biological evidence in civil and criminal law) and internships in government and business organizations round out your study.

Contact Information

Degree Outcomes

Careers

  • Agricultural Inspector
  • Apiculturist (Beekeeper)
  • Educator
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Insect Biologist
  • Integrated Pest Management Consultant
  • Medical/Veterinary Entomologist
  • Museum Curator
  • Pest Control Advisor

Graduate Study

  • Forensic science
  • Entomology
  • Horticulture and agronomy
  • Ecology
  • Toxicology
  • Medicine

Alumni Employers

  • Marrone Bio Innovations
  • California Department of Food and Agriculture
  • California Department of Public Health
  • Center for Watershed Sciences
  • Yolo County Coroner’s Office
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