ENY_PHD - Entomology and Nematology (Ph.D.)

Program Information

The Entomology and Nematology department offers research-based M.S. (thesis) and PhD degrees in entomology and in nematology. Our large faculty in Gainesville and at Research and Education Centers around the state allow for study in many important areas. Insect and nematode pests cause significant losses to agricultural and horticultural crops and livestock, and are important vectors of pathogens that cause diseases in plants, livestock and humans. Urban pests can affect quality of life and cause significant loss to property. However, these organisms also provide important services through decomposition, pollination of fruits and vegetables, and as natural enemies of other pest species. Our department is uniquely positioned to address these fundamental and applied biological questions because of our strong interdisciplinary research and education programs, from molecular to whole organism and population ecology studies.

In addition to our research based degree programs, the M.S. degree can be taken in a non-thesis format, in Gainesville or entirely online, with a specialization in either entomology or pest management (with foci on pests of medical, urban or landscape importance). Online M.S. degrees are designed to accommodate place-bound students interested in biological science with emphasis on insects and other arthropods, including extension faculty and other educators; state and federal employees in agricultural, environmental and regulatory positions; consultants; pest control industry personnel; and others who want to further their education.

Certificates, comprising 15 credit hours of specific coursework, are available online or to residential students with concentrations in urban pest management, landscape pest management or medical entomology. These certificates document specialization and proficiency in sub-disciplines within entomology for enrolled graduate students and provide evidence of expertise for non-degree seeking students.

Students entering graduate programs in entomology and nematology should have a strong science background, including biology, chemistry, and algebra. Physics and statistics are recommended. Admissions criteria can be found on the Graduate School’s Admission page.