Insect Ecology and Conservation Major

Why insect ecology and conservation?

Insects are becoming extinct faster than any other group of species. Conserving insects, the foundation of the world’s biodiversity, is the first step towards protecting the planet. Insect Ecology and Conservation is the study of the most abundant creatures on Earth—insects—and their interactions with other wildlife, humans, and the environment. Our students wonder how and why insects do what they do. They use this curiosity to try and figure out how to reduce negative effects of insects on humans without negatively affecting other life forms. Looking at insects’ structure, function and behavior, entomology majors spend much time in lab and in the field, which are both part of this challenging, biology-based curriculum. Students specialize in all aspects of insect ecology, conservation, physiology, and taxonomy. We have a hands-on curriculum where students learn by doing.

Uniqueness

The University of Delaware boasts the only insect ecology and conservation undergraduate major in the nation! UD has the only department that couples insect and wildlife ecology and conservation providing a holistic program that provides our graduates with a more diverse set of professional skills and career options. We have a small and dedicated faculty that work closely with our students on a regular basis through undergraduate research, study abroad trips, in-class field trips, and local research opportunities.

Outcomes

Our graduates are prepared to enter the workforce with a holistic ecosystem level view of our precious landscape. UD prepares students important jobs such as field biologists, pest control operators or agricultural entomologists working towards sustainable solutions in the areas of integrated pest management, biological control, urban entomology, forensic entomology, pollination ecology, insect conservation or environmental education — just to name a few. Many of our students pursue graduate education in entomology in fields like insect ecology, insect conservation or insect taxonomy.

Career paths

Integrated pest management. Biological control. Pesticide research. Forensic entomology. Environmental consulting. Nature education. Habitat restoration. These careers and more are shared by hundreds of our alumni. While some students enter the workforce right after college, others further their education in graduate school, studying subjects like pest management, insect ecology, and genetics. Whatever your goal, we host job search workshops and career days as you pursue internships, develop your communication skills and network with prospective employers. This, in addition to doing well academically, greatly multiplies your post-graduate opportunities.

For more information, visit the UD Online Catalog.