Ohio State Entomology ranks among top in the nation

Established in 1891, a history of scientific greats contributed to our major, minor and graduate programs.

Student holding an insect vial in class

Entomologists investigate how insects shape the world around us—from agriculture and pollination to biodiversity, health and sustainable systems. At Ohio State, entomology students build a strong biological foundation while gaining hands-on expertise in insect physiology, behavior, ecology, taxonomy and toxicology. Courses connect this knowledge to real-world applications such as beekeeping, public health, sustainable agriculture and pest management across agricultural, forest and urban environments.

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Undergraduate studies

Four tracks of course studies ensure your degree is focused while allowing options to be flexible and unique
Look into our major and minor
graduate student talking with major professor in lab

Graduate studies

Focused on giving students an advanced understanding of insect biology across all levels, our graduate program makes room for unique and talented researchers who are supported to explore more
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Student looking into microscope

Entomology courses

Many of our courses feature hands-on laboratory components and range from insect field biology and social insects, to evaluating evidence in biology and medicine and taxonomy, to physiology and molecular biology
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Study abroad

ENTMLGY 3797 Evolution in Darwin's World and Ours: Practice historical thinking and research skills while exploring Darwin's life, intellectual development, and theory of species origin in broad historical context. Discussions include modern evolutionary theory and applications in biology, medicine and other human endeavors. Then explore these themes through travels abroad during Spring Break!

Entomology's global education course

Where you go from here

Begin your major track

Entomology provides a strong foundation in biological sciences with focused study of insects and their applications. Students learn insect physiology, behavior, ecology, taxonomy, toxicology and areas such as beekeeping, public health, sustainable agriculture and pest management across agricultural, forest and urban systems.
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Consider careers

Entomologists are in demand and our majors are well prepared for graduate, medical and veterinary schools or careers in plant health management, public health, research laboratories, university Extension services, agrochemical industries, crop consulting, environmental education, natural resource protection and conservation, and government agencies.
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Clubs and organizations

Chrysalis is open to all undergraduate students at the university to build networks with faculty, undergraduate and graduate students. Chrysalis provides opportunities to discuss careers and research with scientists and potential employers from Ohio State and beyond. Chrysalis members also participate in service and outreach activities at public events. The club meets once a month, with meeting times vary each semester.

Club activities may include field trips to collect insects for research, and to zoos and museums, or movie night, trivia, cooking with insects and other fun. For more information, contact Joe Raczkowski, Chrysalis advisor. Or search for Chrysalis in on the Find a Student Organization page of Student Activities in the Office of Student Life Activities.

Other student organizations

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    Whatever you like to do, there's a student organization to meet others who like to do it too!