Entomology Minor

The Entomology minor provides students with specialized knowledge of insects and related arthropods and their roles in agriculture, forestry, human and animal health, and natural ecosystems. Students gain skills in insect identification, ecology, and integrated pest management, preparing them for careers and advanced study in environmental protection, pest management, wildlife and fisheries, forestry, horticulture, and related biological and environmental sciences. In addition, students in the minor will have opportunities to acquire Pesticide Applicator License and participate in paid Entomology Internships and Insect Zookeeper Program.

Required Courses (7 credits)

ENTO 404/404L. Principles of Entomology. 4 Hours.

ENTO 450. Insect Ecology. 3 Hours.

Elective Courses (minimum 8 credits)

ENTO 101. Bugs and Humans. 3 Hours.

ESWS 350/350L. Freshwater Benthic Macroinvertebrates and Biomonitoring (4 credits) 

ENTO 412. Pest Management. 4 Hours.

PPTH 470/470L. Forest Pest Management. 4 Hours.

ENTO 495. Independent Study. 1-6 Hours.

Benefits from Entomology Minor 

Offering an Entomology minor at WVU Davis College equips students with specialized skills and credentials that enhance career prospects in agriculture, environmental management, and beyond. It addresses growing demands for pest management expertise amid climate change, invasive species, and sustainable food systems.

Career Preparation: The minor prepares students for certifications like pesticide applicator licenses, providing credentials valued by employers in agriculture, forestry, and urban pest control. Graduates gain a competitive edge for roles in extension services, regulatory agencies, and private industry. 

Practical Skills: Students develop hands-on knowledge in insect identification, ecology, and integrated pest management (IPM), applicable to crops, forests, and urban settings. These skills align with Davis College programs in Horticulture, Forest Resources Management, and Wildlife and Fisheries, enabling real-world pest diagnosis and control strategies.

Educational Outreach: Participants can engage with the WVU Insect Zoo for formal and informal education, delivering programs to K-12 students, the public, and stakeholders. This fosters teaching and communication abilities, ideal for extension educators or museum professionals.

Research Opportunities: Paid internships in entomological research and outreach offer stipends for lab work, field studies, and extension activities through WVU's Entomology Program and the WVU Insect Zoo and Museum. These build resumes with publishable projects on invasive species or biocontrol.

Networking Benefits: The program connects students with employers via faculty networks, federal and state entomologists, industry partners, and events like the WV Entomological Society events. Additional perks include access to the WVU Insect Collection, field trips, guest seminars, and graduate school preparation, expanding opportunities in agribusiness and environmental consulting.