Undergraduate Study in Entomology

The undergraduate curriculum in entomology is designed for persons interested in studying insects, their adaptations, and the practicalities of dealing with them. Students electing entomology as a major will prepare themselves for positions in industry, business, government, education, and public health. Graduates may acquire positions in research, development, and technical sales for agricultural chemical and seed companies. State and federal agencies employ entomologists as consultants, extension directors, mosquito abatement agents, inspectors, and research aides. Entomologists may also find employment with urban or agricultural pest-management or consulting firms, large private farms and ranches, and horticultural nurseries.

All graduates understand the principles of insect structure and function. They understand the evolutionary and ecological relationships of insects with other life forms, and the impact of insects relative to human and animal health, as well as the relationships between insects and humanity's food, fiber, structural, and aesthetic needs and expectations. Graduates understand the principles and methods available to manage beneficial and pest insect populations. They are skilled in identifying insects and related groups and understand the biology, ecology, behavior, diversity, and evolutionary relationships of the major groups of insects. They understand the application of the scientific method in problem solving and the principles of experimental design and analysis. Graduates are able to communicate research and educational materials properly and competently - orally, visually, and in writing - and are able to work effectively with others.

Graduates of the agricultural and horticultural insect management option are skilled in determining pest levels and impact on plant and animal hosts, and the management of these pests. They understand the environmental, legal, and ethical issues involved in insect population management. See a typical four-year (eight semester) plan for the agricultural and horticultural insect management option.

Graduates of the insect biology option have achieved an understanding of the biochemical and physiological processes governing insect metabolism, growth, and form. They understand the evolutionary and ecological significance of insects. They also have a broad background in the biological sciences. Assuming good academic performance, graduates of this option are prepared to enter graduate or professional schools. See a typical four-year (eight semester) plan for the insect biology option.

The department offers a minor in entomology that may be earned by completing 370 (Insect Biology), and 12 credits of additional courses approved by the department. To minor in entomology, please contact Russ Jurenka (515) 294-1485.

The department also offers a multidisciplinary minor in Emerging Global Diseases focusing on human and animal health.

You can find the undergraduate curriculum in entomology, along with a typical program for a first-year student, here. A listing of entomology courses can be found on the course page.

A preveterinary program is available in entomology.

If you are interested in our undergraduate program or are considering switching majors to entomology, please contact Russ Jurenka (515) 294-1485.

If you'd like to apply for admission to Iowa State University, see the Iowa State admissions page.

Related information:

• Undergraduate Courses in Entomology
• Entomology Club
• Current Research