As the dominant terrestrial fauna, insects perform key ecosystem services but also threaten our interests as medical and agricultural pests. Graduate training in Entomology prepares students for diverse science careers solving real-world problems.
Degree Type: Doctoral
Degree Program Code: PHD_ENTO
Degree Program Summary:
The Department of Entomology offers a wide range of courses and research programs leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. Entomology is a vitally important segment of biology, since insects not only destroy nearly one-third of the food we produce but also serve as vectors for many pathogens that cause the world’s most widespread and debilitating parasitic diseases. On the other hand, insects pollinate more than 60% of all flowering plants, enrich soils, and are vital components of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.
Our goal is to support and encourage students who want a career in government agencies, academic institutions or the private sector, by providing them with as broad a background as possible in the many facets of insect biology. Programs within our Department encompass all levels of biological organization from the molecular to ecosystems. Areas of emphasis in the department include Biological Control, Ecology, Molecular Entomology, Systematics / Taxonomy, and Vector Biology. The PhD is a research degree requiring course work plus original research leading to a thesis. We take great pride in the progress and development of our students and the high quality of their research and publications.
A background in entomology is not required for students seeking to enter our graduate program. In fact, we encourage applicants with a BS in any area of the life sciences to apply. Students with a MS degree are normally admitted at the PhD level, but students with a BS and exceptional accomplishments may petition to bypass the MS and work towards the PhD. Teaching and research assistantships are available from the department. Applications are submitted through the Graduate School. By indicating a particular Entomology degree in the online form, the application information and documents are directed to our program to use for the review and admission process. Students without previous courses in genetics and biochemistry will be required to make up these deficiencies after entering the program. Courses in animal physiology or cell and molecular biology can be substitutes. If you are interested in our program, we encourage you to visit our Department and to meet with the faculty and graduate students, so that you can judge the Department and its excellent facilities for yourself.
On the Athens campus, faculty joint staffed with the Departments of Ecology, Genetics, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Division, the Museum of Natural History, and the interdisciplinary toxicology program enable students to earn a degree in entomology with training in related disciplines. In addition to the faculty at the Athens campus, students may carry out research under the direction of faculty at the Griffin or Tifton campuses. Facilities and opportunities for studies on applied aspects of entomological problems and integrated pest management are emphasized at the stations. Facilities outside the department include nine agricultural research farms, forest research areas, the Museum of Natural History, and the U.S.D.A., U.S.E.P.A., and Forestry laboratories.
For additional information please see our Web site or call 800-659-7250 or 706-542-2276.
Locations Offered:
Athens (Main Campus)
College / School:
College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences
147 Cedar Street
Athens, GA 30602
706-542-3924
Department:
Entomology
Graduate Coordinator(s):
Kerry Oliver
Phone Number:
