Insects and their relatives are the most abundant animals on earth, are commonly found in all habitats, and are essential in maintaining our ecosystem. The field of insect science encompasses the agricultural, biological, and environmental sciences related to insects and their interactions with humans and other organisms.

There are four options in the Insect Science degree:

The IPM and Pest Science Option is designed for students considering careers in agriculture, agribusiness, consulting (agricultural, environmental, public health, urban), extension, state and federal government agencies (e.g., APHIS, EPA, USDA, and state departments of agriculture), horticulture, the military, food processing, and pest control. Examples of areas of focus include agronomic and horticultural pests, or urban pests. This option is also suitable as preparation for graduate studies leading to academic or research careers in applied entomology.

The Science Option is designed for students interested in careers focusing on the basic biology of insects and other arthropods. This option is suitable for students considering any career involving entomology (e.g., academia, research, medicine, forensics, environmental quality, conservation biology, or health-related fields), but is especially appropriate preparation for entry into professional programs such as veterinary and medical schools and many graduate school disciplines.

The Public Health Option is designed for students interested in careers focusing on the association and impacts of insects and related pests on human and animal health. This may include their mere presence and nuisance value, the generation of allergens and subsequent irritation, insect and mite stings and bites, the direct invasion of tissues, and the transmission of disease-causing pathogens. This option is appropriate preparation for graduate study or for careers in academia, research, the military, medicine or health-related fields.

The Forensic Science Option is designed for students interested in the analysis of forensic evidence from crime scene investigations. This option also is suitable preparation for graduate study or careers in academia, research, or medicine (e.g. pathology).