Bachelor of Entomology at The Ohio State University

    Bachelor of Entomology at The Ohio State University

    Bachelor of Entomology at The Ohio State University

    The Entomology at The Ohio State University is a Full Time Bachelor program offered on the College: Food campus in Columbus , United States of America. The program is delivered on campus in English and can be completed in 4 years. Students develop academic knowledge and practical skills that prepare them for future careers in this field. The next available intake starts on August 24, 2027.

    About Bachelor of Entomology

    Combine a strong background in biological sciences with in-depth study of insect biology and applied entomology to understand the biological world, improve the human condition and protect the environment.

    Entomology

    Degree: BS, BA

    Campus: Columbus

    College: Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences

    Insect species outnumber all other life forms combined. Human health, local and global economies, and sustainable food and water supplies all depend on state-of-the-art knowledge about insects, their integral roles in ecosystems and their effective management. Pollination by honey bees and other insects ensures the availability of fruits and vegetables in our diets, and insect communities are important indicators of environmental quality and their study advances ecosystem restoration and management. 

    While most species are beneficial, insect pests account for more human deaths than all wars combined, destroy food and fiber, and damage homes and other structures. Every year, research-based strategies for control of insect-borne diseases save millions of lives. It’s no wonder that entomologists, biomedical researchers, environmental scientists and evolutionary biologists study insects to understand the biological world, improve the human condition and protect the environment.

    Get started

    Interested students, newly accepted or currently enrolled at Ohio State, should contact the Department of Entomology to set up a personal meeting with a curriculum advisor to discuss career plans and goals and explore the many benefits of majoring in entomology. Once the major is declared, each student is assigned a faculty advisor who helps with identifying a career path and assembling the most appropriate combination of required and elective courses. 

    Curriculum

    The entomology major couples a strong background in the biological sciences with in-depth study of insect biology and applied entomology. Students learn insect physiology, behavior, ecology and taxonomy, as well as beekeeping, veterinary and public health entomology, sustainable agriculture, and integrated pest management in agricultural, forest and urban environments.

    Faculty are world-class scientists engaged in cutting edge research who also teach entomology courses. Our smaller class sizes enable instructors to provide individual attention to students. 

    Entomology students enjoy a high degree of flexibility in shaping their program, and typically choose one of two tracks: (1) applied pest management or (2) pre-graduate, pre-medical or pre-veterinary studies. Tracks can be customized. Examples include human or veterinary ecology, insect ecology and conservation, or general insect science.

    Core requirements include general entomology and capstone courses. Many of the courses feature a hands-on laboratory component. The major tracks are not mutually exclusive, and students meet with their advisor to select required electives from a wide array of basic and applied entomology courses to tailor their programs to their interests and goals. An internship is also required. To broaden their horizons, all entomology students must select a minor (12 credits) in another subject area. 

    Entomology students may take exciting summer field courses at The Ohio State University’s “Island Campus,” Stone Laboratory, located on Gibraltar Island in Lake Erie’s Put-in-Bay Harbor. 

    Students also have opportunities to gain hands-on entomological experience through volunteer or paid positions in Ohio State’s Museum of Biological Diversity, home to the C.A. Triplehorn Insect Collection, which is ranked among the top university collections in North America.  Students can also gain experience in caring for live arthropods at the insectary, located within our rooftop greenhouses. 

    Study abroad

    Our department offers an opportunity to travel to the United Kingdom and study the life, intellectual development and evolutionary theory of Charles Darwin, who used insects as study subjects.

    Internship

    Required student internships are customizable by student interest.  While some students use research experience with entomology faculty as their internship, many students secure hands-on experiences outside the university through government agencies, non-profits, and private business and consulting firms. 

    Honors and Scholars

    For entomology students admitted to the Honors and Scholars Programs, three Scholars programs are of interest: (1) the Biological Sciences Scholars Program, which emphasizes research, with individualized advising and significant lab and field experience; (2) the Health Sciences Scholars Program, which focuses on preparing students for careers in health sciences and health care; and (3) the Environment and Natural Resources Scholars Program, which focuses on appreciating and analyzing global environmental issues while exploring the natural world.

    Research

    Many entomology undergraduate majors are engaged in research guided by faculty mentors. This research may be support an existing faculty research project, or it may be research co-designed by the undergraduate student. Such opportunities allow students to develop their scientific curiosity and discover the excitement of the discipline while preparing them for graduate school or a career in research. Information about faculty research interests is available at entomology.osu.edu. 

    Student organizations

    Undergraduates are encouraged to join Chrysalis, the undergraduate entomology club. Members build networks with faculty and graduate students and potential employers and participate in events like field trips to collect insects for research, and to zoos and museums. Chrysalis members also participate in service activities and outreach activities at public events. 

    Possible careers

    Entomology majors graduate with many career options. Employers report immediate and longer-term needs for well-trained entomologists. Entomology majors are well prepared for careers in plant health management, public health (including the armed forces), research laboratories, greenhouse management, university extension services, agrochemical industries, environmental and crop consulting, environmental education, zoo and wildlife management, natural resource protection and conservation, and government agencies.

    Students who pursue a master’s degree in entomology find many specialized opportunities in these same areas. For students aspiring to a professional degree in K-12 education, medicine, veterinary medicine or further specialization in entomology, this major provides an excellent background and favorable reception from graduate, medical and veterinary schools. Entomologists who desire careers as research scientists or college professors pursue a doctorate. Many graduate students in entomology programs serve as research and teaching assistants as part of their training and receive stipends, tuition and other benefits that support all or most of their living and educational expenses while in graduate school. 

    Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Entomology at The Ohio State University

    Entry Requirements

    Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.

    • Successful completion of university preparatory courses

    • High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA

    • Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores

      Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
    • Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community

    • Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)

    • Status as a first-generation university student

    • Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area

    • High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors

    • Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State

    Enrollment in your intended major

    Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about

    English Requirements

    • IELTSMin 6.5
    • TOEFLMin 79

    English Program Requirements

    we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.

    Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Entomology at The Ohio State University

    How to Apply for Bachelor of Entomology at The Ohio State University

    How do I submit scores?

    Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.

    Tips for sending scores to Ohio State

    • Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.

    • If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.

    • We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).

    • October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.

    • Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.

    Is the essay required?

    The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.

    Should I take a standardized test more than once?

    Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.

    How does Ohio State look at scores?

    When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.

    These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.

    Official transcripts

    High school transcripts

    Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.

    How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:

    • Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.

    • Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].

    • If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.

    • Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.

    Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.

    Official ACT or SAT scores

    Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
    How do I submit my scores?

    We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.

    Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor

    While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.

    If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to [email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.

    Official proof of English language skills

    You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:

    • TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher

    • IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher

    • ACT: 21 or higher on the English section

    • SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test

    • Duolingo*: 105 or higher

    You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.

    Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.

    *To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.

    Bachelor of Entomology at The Ohio State University
    The Ohio State University
    The Ohio State University
    United States of America

    United States of America, Columbus

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