How To Become An Entomologist

Written by environmentalscience, Last Updated: February 13, 2026

Entomologists study insects and their relationships with environments, animals, and humans. As of 2024, entomologists working under the zoologists and wildlife biologists category earn a median salary of $70,600, with employment projected to grow 4% through 2033. Specializations include agricultural pest management, medical disease prevention, forensic investigation, and species conservation across research, government, and private sector roles.

If you've ever been fascinated by the intricate world of insects-whether it's watching ants build complex colonies, wondering how bees navigate miles to find flowers, or questioning why certain bugs seem indestructible-you might be considering a career that lets you study these remarkable creatures professionally. Entomology isn't just about collecting butterflies or identifying beetles. It's a field where scientific curiosity meets real-world problem-solving, from protecting crops that feed millions to preventing disease outbreaks spread by mosquitoes.

We've found that prospective entomology students often wonder whether this specialized path can lead to a viable career. The answer is encouraging: entomologists make essential contributions to agriculture, public health, conservation, and forensic science. Whether you're drawn to fieldwork in remote rainforests or to laboratory research developing integrated pest management solutions, this career offers diverse pathways to make meaningful environmental impact.

What Is Entomology?

Entomology is the scientific study of insects, including their relationships with other animals, their environments, and human beings. While insects represent the most abundant form of life on Earth-outnumbering all other species combined-they're also among the least understood. Entomological research provides insights into ecology, evolution, and social behavior that extend far beyond the insect world.

Entomologists don't just study insects in isolation. They also examine arthropods, a related group of species that includes spiders, scorpions, mites, and ticks. Most entomologists eventually specialize in a particular taxonomic group or application area, though undergraduate programs typically provide broad exposure to the field before students narrow their focus.

The work matters because insects perform functions vital to life on Earth. Understanding their roles helps us develop better crop pollination strategies, conserve threatened species, protect agriculture from pests, and restore disturbed ecosystems. Some entomologists focus on how climate change affects insect distributions and populations-work that's become increasingly urgent as temperature patterns shift globally.

What Does an Entomologist Do?

Entomologists study insects, their environments, and their behaviors through observational, experimental, chemical, and genetic techniques. The daily work varies considerably depending on specialization and employment setting, but most entomologists combine fieldwork with laboratory analysis, use both traditional observation and modern technology, and collaborate across scientific disciplines.

The field has diversified significantly over recent decades. While classical taxonomy-identifying and classifying species-remains important, modern entomologists also work in molecular biology, environmental management, public health, and even criminal justice. Here are the major specialization areas:

Agricultural entomologists develop strategies to protect crops from insect pests without harming beneficial species like bees and butterflies. They're at the forefront of integrated pest management (IPM) approaches that use biological controls-deploying natural predators instead of chemical pesticides-to maintain ecological balance while ensuring food security. You'll find agricultural entomologists working for universities, government agricultural agencies, crop science companies, and farming cooperatives.

Medical entomologists focus on disease vector control, studying how insects transmit pathogens that cause human illnesses. Their research helps prevent outbreaks of diseases like malaria, West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and Zika virus. This specialization has grown increasingly important as global travel and climate change expand the geographic ranges of disease-carrying mosquitoes and ticks. Medical entomologists work for public health departments, the CDC, international health organizations, and pharmaceutical companies developing vector control products.

Veterinary entomologists protect livestock, zoo animals, and wildlife from insect pests and the diseases they transmit. They develop parasite management programs for agricultural operations and help conservationists protect endangered species from insect-borne threats. This work bridges agricultural science, wildlife conservation, and veterinary medicine.

Forensic entomologists assist criminal investigations by analyzing insects found on human remains. Since different insect species colonize bodies in predictable sequences, entomologists can help determine the time of death and whether a body was moved after death. While this represents a small portion of entomological work, it has grown into a recognized forensic specialty, with practitioners serving as expert witnesses.

Forest entomologists protect forests and wild plant communities by studying insects that damage or kill trees. They monitor for invasive pest species, develop management strategies for native pest outbreaks, and research how forest insects respond to climate change and altered fire regimes. These specialists work for forest services, timber companies, conservation organizations, and natural resource agencies.

Structural entomologists (also called urban entomologists) study insects that invade buildings-cockroaches, termites, bed bugs, and other pests that affect human structures. They research prevention methods, develop treatment strategies that minimize pesticide use in occupied buildings, and help create building codes that reduce pest problems. Many structural entomologists work for pest control companies or serve as consultants to property managers and architects.

Taxonomic entomologists discover and classify insect species, many of which remain unknown to science. Discovering new species isn't just about expanding catalogs-it helps us understand evolution, ecosystem function, and biodiversity patterns. Some taxonomic work leads to practical applications, like discovering insects that could control invasive species or produce compounds useful in medicine.

Learn more about entomology, the study of insects, including its history and major research areas.

Where Does an Entomologist Work?

Entomologists work in diverse settings that combine office work, laboratory research, and fieldwork in varying proportions. Many hold faculty positions at colleges and universities, where they balance teaching, research, and grant writing. Doctoral degrees are generally required for tenure-track academic positions, though some teaching-focused roles may be accessible with master's degrees.

Beyond academia, entomologists find employment with federal agencies such as the USDA, EPA, and CDC; state agricultural and forestry departments; county extension offices; biotechnology firms; agricultural chemical companies; pest control organizations; environmental consulting firms; museums with research collections; and zoos that manage integrated pest management programs. Each setting offers different balances of research, application, and public interaction.

The physical work environment shifts between climate-controlled laboratories and challenging field conditions. Laboratory work involves microscopy, specimen preparation, molecular analysis, and computer modeling-typically in comfortable indoor settings with regular hours. Fieldwork, however, can be physically demanding and sometimes isolating. Collecting expeditions might take you to tropical rainforests in South America or Asia, remote agricultural regions, or urban environments depending on your research focus.

We've found that students often underestimate the physical demands of field entomology. Extended periods outdoors in heat, humidity, and rough terrain are common. You'll handle equipment, climb to reach sampling sites, and work in conditions that attract the very insects you're studying-which means mosquito bites, bee stings, and encounters with biting flies are occupational hazards. If your specialization involves tropical or developing-world research, you'll also need vaccinations and preparation for regions with limited infrastructure.

Career entomologists typically work more than 40 hours per week, especially during peak seasons. Agricultural entomologists face intense periods during growing seasons when pest problems emerge. Medical entomologists may respond to disease outbreak emergencies. Academic entomologists juggle teaching schedules, student advising, and research that doesn't follow a 9-to-5 rhythm. That said, the work offers considerable intellectual freedom and the satisfaction of contributing to scientific knowledge with tangible, real-world applications.

Related career paths worth exploring include zoologists, who study animal biology more broadly, and agricultural and forestry specialists, who work in adjacent fields that address similar environmental challenges.

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What Is the Average Entomologist Salary?

Entomologists fall under the Bureau of Labor Statistics category of zoologists and wildlife biologists, which reported a median annual salary of $70,600 as of May 2023. However, earnings vary significantly based on specialization, experience level, employer type, and geographic location. The lowest 10% of professionals in this category earned less than $46,080, while the highest 10% earned more than $106,320, demonstrating the wide salary range within the field.

Several factors influence where you'll fall in this range. Educational level matters considerably-entomologists with doctoral degrees often earn significantly more than those with bachelor's or master's degrees, particularly in research and academic positions. Specialization also affects earnings: forensic entomologists and those working in pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies often command higher salaries than those in basic research or education. Government positions at federal agencies generally offer competitive salaries with strong benefits, while academic salaries vary by institution type and rank.

Geographic location creates substantial salary differences. States with large agricultural industries or major research universities typically offer higher compensation. California, for example, employs many entomologists in its agricultural sector and pays them accordingly. Urban areas with higher costs of living generally provide salary premiums, though you'll need to balance this against housing and living expenses.

Here's how entomologist salaries compare to related biology careers:

Career	Median Salary	10th Percentile	90th Percentile
Entomologist (Zoologists & Wildlife Biologists)	$70,600	$46,080	$106,320
Microbiologist	$84,400	$50,400	$133,080
Environmental Scientist	$78,980	$47,850	$129,450
Conservation Scientist	$67,290	$44,130	$101,120

It's worth noting that salary shouldn't be the only consideration. Many entomologists report high job satisfaction due to the intellectual challenge, fieldwork opportunities, and tangible impact of their work. Career advancement potential can be achieved by gaining expertise, publishing research, taking on administrative responsibilities, or moving into consulting or private-sector positions, where compensation tends to be higher than in academic or government roles.

Entomology Jobs & Job Descriptions

Entomologists study the impact and relationships of insects on each other and on the environment. With appropriate qualifications, career opportunities concentrate in research institutions, agricultural applications, forestry management, public health agencies, and structural pest control. While specific responsibilities vary by position and specialization, most professional entomologists can expect their work to include the following elements.

Entry-Level Responsibilities

Early-career entomologists typically focus on building foundational skills and contributing to established research programs. You'll spend considerable time reviewing current scientific literature to stay informed about developments in your subspecialty and adjacent fields. Fieldwork involves collecting and managing specimens according to rigorous protocols, which requires attention to detail and physical stamina. Laboratory work includes preparing specimens for analysis, conducting measurements, and learning specialized techniques such as DNA extraction and chemical analysis.

Entry-level professionals also conduct environmental sampling-collecting air, water, soil, and plant materials to understand insect habitats and ecological relationships. Data collection and basic analysis occupy much of your time as you contribute to larger research projects led by senior scientists. You'll learn to use statistical software, geographic information systems (GIS), and specialized entomological databases. During this phase, you're building both technical skills and professional networks that will shape your career trajectory.

Mid-Career Professional Work

As you advance, your work becomes more independent and specialized. You'll develop your own research questions and experimental designs rather than primarily executing others' protocols. Mid-career entomologists often serve as technical advisors to stakeholders-helping farmers solve pest problems, consulting with public health officials about disease vectors, or guiding conservation managers on protecting endangered species.

Working with a holistic ecological mindset becomes essential at this level. You're expected to develop and troubleshoot complex pest management plans that consider economic impacts, environmental effects, and regulatory requirements. Computational work expands significantly-you'll build models to predict insect population dynamics under different scenarios, analyze large datasets to identify patterns, and use spatial analysis to understand geographic distributions.

Professional development continues through participation in scientific societies, conference presentations, and publication of research in peer-reviewed journals. Many mid-career entomologists also begin supervising students, technicians, or junior researchers, adding mentorship to their responsibilities.

Senior-Level and Leadership Roles

Senior entomologists increasingly focus on strategic direction, program management, and knowledge synthesis. You'll develop standards and guidelines for laboratory and field testing that ensure research quality across your organization. Creating and refining methods for trapping, containing, and tracking specimen populations is part of developing best practices for the field.

Risk assessment is increasingly important-evaluating potential damage from insect infestations across small and large geographic areas and developing mitigation strategies that balance economic, environmental, and social considerations. Administrative responsibilities grow to include establishing communication protocols, managing budgets, setting project timelines, and building team cohesion across diverse groups of researchers and support staff.

Senior professionals represent their organizations and the field publicly. You'll create and deliver presentations to stakeholders, policymakers, and funding agencies. Preparing certification submissions, whether for new pest control methods or environmental assessments, requires synthesizing technical knowledge for regulatory review. Many senior entomologists establish leadership roles in professional societies and serve on editorial boards of scientific journals, shaping the direction of entomological research more broadly.

What Is the Job Demand for Entomologists?

Employment of zoologists and wildlife biologists as a whole is projected to grow 4% from 2023 to 2033, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This translates to approximately 1,500 new jobs over the decade, with an estimated 1,700 job openings annually when accounting for workers who transfer to other occupations or retire.

For entomologists specifically, most new opportunities will emerge in biotechnology and environmental consulting rather than traditional academic research positions. The biotechnology sector is increasingly interested in insects as models for developing new materials, pharmaceuticals derived from insect compounds, and biological pest control agents. Environmental consulting firms need entomologists to conduct impact assessments, monitor endangered species, and evaluate restoration projects.

Climate change is creating new challenges that require entomological expertise. As insect ranges shift with changing temperatures, agricultural regions face new pest threats while traditional pests become problems in areas where they were previously unknown. Public health agencies are expanding their capacity to monitor and control disease-carrying insects, such as mosquitoes and ticks, as they expand their geographic ranges. This creates steady demand for medical entomologists with expertise in vector ecology and disease transmission.

Competition remains strong for tenure-track academic positions, which represent many entomologists' career goals but constitute a relatively small portion of available jobs. The academic job market has been tight for decades, with many PhD graduates spending several years in postdoctoral positions before securing faculty positions-if they succeed at all. However, opportunities exist beyond traditional academia in government research labs, agricultural extension programs, and private research institutions.

The field of integrated pest management continues to grow as agriculture seeks alternatives to broad-spectrum pesticides. Organic farming certification requirements create demand for entomologists who can develop biological control strategies. Similarly, urban entomology is expanding as cities seek effective, environmentally responsible approaches to managing insect pests in buildings and public spaces.

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How Do I Get an Entomology Degree?

The educational pathway for becoming an entomologist varies depending on your career goals, but all routes begin with a strong foundation in biology and related sciences. Understanding when you need a bachelor's degree versus advanced degrees-and what each level qualifies you to do-helps you plan your education efficiently.

Degree Pathways and Career Outcomes

Degree Level	Typical Duration	Career Outcomes	When Required
Bachelor's in Entomology or Biology	4 years	Lab technician, field assistant, agricultural inspector, pest control specialist	Entry-level positions, prerequisite for advanced degrees
Master's in Entomology	2-3 years	Research scientist, extension educator, senior agricultural entomologist, environmental consultant	Independent research, specialized technical positions
PhD in Entomology	4-6 years	University professor, research director, senior scientist, policy advisor	Tenure-track academic positions, leading research programs

Undergraduate Education

Some entry-level positions are open to candidates with bachelor's degrees in entomology or related scientific fields, such as biology, ecology, or zoology. Dedicated entomology programs provide the most direct preparation, but they're increasingly rare-many universities have integrated entomology into broader biology departments. This isn't necessarily disadvantageous if the biology program offers solid entomology coursework and faculty expertise.

A strong environmental science or biology degree program should cover insect biology and physiology, pest management principles, insect-borne diseases, taxonomy and morphology (how to identify and classify insects), and veterinary entomology. You'll also need solid grounding in general biology, chemistry (especially organic chemistry), statistics, and increasingly, computational skills for data analysis and modeling.

Before committing to a program, verify that your institution is regionally accredited. Unfortunately, many dedicated entomology programs have been dissolved and absorbed into general biology departments, and not all retain faculty with entomological expertise. The Entomological Society of America maintains a list of colleges with entomology programs at http://www.entsoc.org/resources/education/colleges. While this list isn't exhaustive and doesn't guarantee accreditation, it provides a starting point for identifying schools with active entomology communities.

During your undergraduate years, seek hands-on experience through research assistantships, museum internships, or summer positions with agricultural extension services. Building an insect collection, participating in bioblitz events, and joining entomological clubs all strengthen your preparation for graduate study or employment. Many colleges, universities, and entomological organizations run clubs specifically for young entomologists-an excellent way to network and gain practical experience.

Graduate Education

Advanced degrees open doors to independent research and specialized positions. Master's programs typically require two to three years and combine advanced coursework with a thesis project based on original research. You'll develop deeper expertise in your chosen subspecialty, learn advanced laboratory and field techniques, and begin contributing to scientific literature. Many master's students receive funding through teaching or research assistantships that cover tuition and provide a stipend.

A master's degree qualifies you for many professional entomologist positions, particularly in applied fields like agricultural extension, environmental consulting, and government agencies. If your goal is applied work rather than academic research, a master's may be sufficient and allows you to enter the workforce several years earlier than PhD holders.

Doctoral programs require four to six years beyond the bachelor's degree (some programs admit master's graduates, others admit directly from undergraduate). PhD training focuses on developing independent research skills and making original contributions to entomological knowledge. You'll complete advanced coursework, pass comprehensive examinations, conduct original research, and write a dissertation. Most PhD students receive funding through teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or fellowships.

Doctoral degrees are generally required for tenure-track faculty positions at colleges and universities, as well as for leading research programs at government agencies or major research institutions. The job market for PhD-level positions is competitive, and many graduates spend time in postdoctoral positions before securing permanent positions.

Professional Certification

The Entomological Society of America offers optional certification programs that can enhance your professional credentials. The Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) credential is designed for structural entomologists working in pest management, while the Board Certified Entomologist (BCE) credential serves entomologists across all specializations. These certifications demonstrate expertise to employers and clients, though they're not required for most positions.

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You may also be interested in parasitology, which studies parasitic organisms, including many that use insects as vectors or hosts.

Work-Life Balance and Career Realities

Understanding the day-to-day realities of entomological work helps you make informed career decisions. The field offers considerable intellectual rewards and the satisfaction of contributing to important problems, but it also involves challenges that aren't always apparent from the outside.

Field vs. Laboratory Work

Most entomologists split their time between fieldwork and laboratory analysis, though the ratio varies dramatically by specialization. Agricultural and forest entomologists might spend 40-60% of their time outdoors during active seasons, while structural or forensic entomologists work primarily indoors. Academic researchers balance both, with field seasons concentrated around specific projects and laboratory work continuing year-round.

Fieldwork sounds romantic-tropical rainforests, pristine wilderness, exotic locations-but the reality involves early mornings, physical labor, exposure to weather extremes, and sometimes uncomfortable living conditions. You'll work in heat, humidity, and environments that attract insects (which means you'll be bitten, stung, and generally harassed by your study subjects). That said, many entomologists find fieldwork the most rewarding aspect of their careers, providing a direct connection to natural systems that laboratory work can't replicate.

Travel Requirements

Travel frequency depends on your specialization and employer. Taxonomic entomologists studying tropical species may spend several months each year on collecting expeditions in Central America, Southeast Asia, or other biodiverse regions. Agricultural entomologists might travel regularly within their state or region to visit research plots and meet with growers. University faculty attend conferences, visit collaborators, and conduct fieldwork at research sites.

International fieldwork requires additional preparation, including vaccinations, travel insurance, paperwork for specimen collection and export, and, in some cases, language skills. If you have family commitments or health conditions that complicate extended travel, consider specializations with more predictable schedules, like structural entomology or certain government positions.

Physical Demands

Entomological fieldwork can be physically challenging. You'll carry equipment, often over rough terrain. Collecting insects might require climbing trees, wading through streams, or working in caves. Net sweeping-a common collection technique-involves hours of repetitive arm motion. You'll work in conditions from desert heat to rainforest humidity, often during insects' most active periods (which means dawn, dusk, or nighttime work).

Laboratory work, while less physically demanding, requires different capacities: fine motor skills for manipulating tiny specimens, the ability to work at microscopes for extended periods, and patience for repetitive tasks like pinning and labeling thousands of specimens. If you have physical limitations, discuss them honestly with potential advisors or employers-many aspects of entomological work can be adapted, but some positions genuinely require specific physical capabilities.

Seasonal Variations

Insect activity follows seasonal patterns, which means entomological work does too. Agricultural entomologists face intense workloads during growing seasons when pests are active, and farmers need immediate assistance. Summer might bring 60-hour weeks followed by slower winter months. Academic entomologists often conduct fieldwork during the summer when students aren't in classes, then return to teaching during academic terms.

This seasonal rhythm offers both advantages and challenges. Slower periods allow time for data analysis, writing, and professional development. But peak seasons can be exhausting, and the irregular schedule doesn't suit everyone. Understanding these patterns helps you choose specializations that match your lifestyle preferences.

What Kind of Societies and Professional Organizations Do Entomologists Have?

Professional societies play crucial roles in entomologists' careers, providing networking opportunities, continuing education, job listings, and scientific forums. The primary organization for entomologists in North America is the Entomological Society of America (ESA), which serves as the largest organization for entomology professionals worldwide.

ESA hosts several free networks anyone can join, including a dedicated network for entomology students that provides mentoring opportunities and career guidance. The society maintains a list of student entomology clubs at various educational institutions, helping you connect with peers and build professional relationships before entering the workforce. ESA's annual meeting brings together thousands of entomologists to share research, discuss career opportunities, and explore new developments in the field.

The society administers two optional professional certifications-the Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) and Board Certified Entomologist (BCE) credentials discussed earlier-and offers various awards and scholarships for students and early-career professionals. ESA's publications, including the American Entomologist magazine and several peer-reviewed journals, keep members informed about advances in research and professional issues.

Beyond ESA, numerous specialized societies focus on particular insect groups or applications: the Lepidopterists' Society (butterflies and moths), the Dragonfly Society of the Americas, the Coleopterists Society (beetles), and many others. Regional entomological societies provide local networking and often host more accessible meetings for students and early-career professionals. Joining professional societies as a student, when membership rates are reduced, helps you build networks that prove valuable throughout your career.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do entomologists make per year?

Entomologists earn a median annual salary of $70,600 as zoologists and wildlife biologists, according to May 2023 BLS data. However, salaries range from around $46,080 for the lowest 10% to over $106,320 for the highest 10%. Your earnings depend on education level (PhDs often earn significantly more than bachelor's degree holders), specialization (forensic and pharmaceutical entomologists often earn more), employer type (private sector generally pays more than academic positions), and location (states with large agricultural industries tend to offer higher compensation).

What degree do you need to become an entomologist?

Entry-level entomology positions are accessible with a bachelor's degree in entomology, biology, or a related field. However, career advancement typically requires graduate education. A master's degree (2-3 years) qualifies you for independent research positions, extension work, and senior technical roles. A PhD (4-6 years beyond bachelor's) is generally required for tenure-track university faculty positions and for directing research programs. Your degree choice should align with your career goals: if you want applied work in agriculture or pest management, a master's may suffice; academic research careers typically require a doctorate.

Is entomology a good career?

Entomology can be an excellent career if you're genuinely interested in insects and willing to pursue the necessary education. The field offers intellectual challenge, opportunities for fieldwork in diverse environments, and the satisfaction of contributing to important problems like food security, disease prevention, and biodiversity conservation. Job satisfaction among entomologists tends to be high despite their moderate salaries compared to those in other scientific fields. However, competition for academic positions is strong, and the work can be physically demanding. Consider whether you're comfortable with fieldwork conditions, irregular schedules, and the educational time investment (6-10 years beyond high school for advanced positions).

What's the difference between an entomologist and a biologist?

Entomologists are specialized biologists who focus on insects and closely related arthropods, such as spiders and scorpions. While all entomologists are biologists, not all biologists are entomologists. A general biologist might study any form of life-plants, animals, microorganisms, or ecosystems-while an entomologist concentrates on insect biology, behavior, ecology, and interactions with other organisms. This specialization provides deeper expertise in insect-specific topics such as metamorphosis, insect-borne diseases, pest management, and insect evolution. Most entomologists complete general biology education before specializing through graduate study or professional focus.

Do entomologists work indoors or outdoors?

Most entomologists split their time between indoor and outdoor work, though the ratio varies by specialization. Agricultural and forest entomologists might spend 40-60% of their time in the field during active seasons, collecting specimens and monitoring populations. Medical entomologists conduct field surveys to identify habitats of disease vectors. Laboratory-based research, specimen preparation, data analysis, and writing happen indoors. Structural entomologists work primarily indoors, inspecting buildings and developing pest management plans. Academic entomologists balance outdoor fieldwork (often concentrated in summer) with indoor teaching and laboratory research. If you have strong preferences about the work environment, choose your specialization accordingly.

Can you become an entomologist with a bachelor's degree?

Yes, some entry-level entomology positions are accessible with a bachelor's degree in entomology, biology, ecology, or related fields. These positions typically involve field or laboratory assistance, agricultural inspection, pest control, or technical support. However, advancement to independent research positions, university teaching, or leadership roles generally requires graduate education. If you're uncertain about committing to graduate school immediately, starting with a bachelor's degree and gaining work experience can help clarify whether entomology is the right long-term path before investing in advanced degrees.

What jobs can you get with an entomology degree?

Entomology degrees lead to diverse career paths beyond the traditional "entomologist" title. With a bachelor's degree, you might work as a field technician, laboratory assistant, agricultural inspector, pest control consultant, or zoo educator. Master's degree holders often become extension educators, research scientists, environmental consultants, integrated pest management specialists, or public health entomologists. PhD holders pursue careers as university professors, research directors, pharmaceutical researchers, forensic consultants, or policy advisors on agricultural or environmental issues. The degree also provides strong preparation for careers in science writing, education, environmental law, and science policy, where expertise in insects is valuable.

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Key Takeaways

• Career Definition: Entomologists study insects and related arthropods across diverse specializations, including agriculture, public health, conservation, forensics, and basic research. The field combines laboratory science with fieldwork and offers opportunities to address real-world problems from food security to disease prevention.
• Salary & Compensation: Median annual salary is $70,600 (May 2023 BLS data), ranging from $46,080 to over $106,320. Earnings vary significantly by education level, specialization, employer type, and location. While salaries are moderate compared to some science careers, many entomologists report high job satisfaction from meaningful work.
• Education Requirements: Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor's degree in entomology or biology. Career advancement typically needs graduate education-master's degrees (2-3 years) for independent research and specialized positions, PhDs (4-6 years) for academic faculty positions and research leadership. Optional professional certifications enhance credentials.
• Job Market Outlook: Employment is projected to grow 4% through 2033, with approximately 1,700 annual openings, including turnover. Most new opportunities emerge in biotechnology and environmental consulting rather than traditional academia. Climate change is creating a growing demand for expertise in disease vector and agricultural pest management.
• Work Realities: The career involves balancing field and laboratory work with irregular schedules and physical demands. Fieldwork can be challenging (weather exposure, travel to remote locations, physically demanding collection work), but many entomologists find it deeply rewarding. Success requires a genuine interest in insects, a willingness to pursue extensive education, and flexibility about work environments and schedules.

Ready to explore entomology programs? Whether you're just starting to consider this career or planning your graduate education, finding the right program makes all the difference in your professional development.

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2023 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job growth figures for zoologists and wildlife biologists reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed February 2026.