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University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Insect Science Major

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Photos © Jim Kalisch 2008

Insect Science Major

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

The core curriculum provides students with a balanced education focusing on insect structure and function, behavior, ecology, and diversity, as well as courses in mathematics, science, and the humanities. The core curriculum also delivers a well rounded background in the biological sciences. In addition to the core, there are four different options from which students can select an area of focus which meets their own interests and career objectives (Integrated Pest Management and Pest Science Option; Science Option; Public Health Option; and Forensic Science Option).
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IPM Option Program of Study
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.
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Science Option Program of Study


Science Option Pre-Med Plan of Study
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.
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Public Health Option Plan of Study
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.
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Forensic Crime Scene Option Plan of Study

Forensic Analysis Option Plan of Study
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).

For more information, please contact the Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska, at (402) 472-2123 or the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at (402) 472-2201.

 

Careers with a Degree in Insect Science

  • Research (agriculture, biology, biological and genetic technology)
  • Forensic entomology
  • Public health
  • Consulting (agricultural, environmental, public health, urban, food processing)
  • State and federal government agencies (e.g., APHIS, EPA, USDA, and state departments of agriculture)
  • Conservation and environmental biology
  • Museum director or educational director for an insect zoo
  • Pharmaceutical industry
  • Natural resources management
  • Academia
  • Professional programs such as veterinary and medical schools and with many graduate school disciplines
  • Production agriculture
  • Pest control
  • Seed, fertilizer, chemical research and development, sales, and service
  • Apiculture
  • Cooperative extension
  • Outreach education

 

CONTACT:
Lisa Silberman
Recruitment Coordinator
Insect Science and Applied Science
Department of Entomology
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
213 Entomology Hall
Lincoln, NE 68583-0816
(402) 472-3416
lsilberman1@unl.edu