Why Choose the University of Minnesota?
The Entomology Graduate Program offers M.S. Plan A (with thesis), M.S. Plan B (without thesis), and Ph.D. degrees (with dissertation). The mission of the Department of Entomology is to conduct research and education in the science of entomology. Faculty research areas include: Pollinator Biology, Invasion Biology, Physiology & Neurobiology, Insect Ecology, Taxonomy & Evolution, Integrated Pest Management, Host-Microbe Interactions, Biology of Disease Vectors, Biological Control.
Active and Inclusive Student Organization
Frenatae, the UMN Entomology Graduate Student Organization, works to represent students within the Department of Entomology. As a self-governing group, they partner with the Department to support the development of professional skills among students, foster an environment for the exchange of scientific ideas, and create a social network for the student body. Frenatae organizes numerous public outreach events, invites guest speakers, plans professional skill-building workshops, and provides networking opportunities for entomology students.
Fellowships
The Entomology department has a long history of excellence in research, teaching, and extension that dates back to 1888. Many of our students receive prestigious awards and fellowships for their research and academic performance. There are many fellowships available for first and subsequent years through the Department of Entomology, CFANS, and University of Minnesota.
Connecting Students with Potential Employers
Students are provided with opportunities outside of the classroom to enhance their overall learning experience and connect them with other entomology networks. Opportunities include:
- Networking with potential employers
- Tours of local agencies that employ entomologists
- Alumni events
- CFANS mentorship program
How to Apply/Forms
Application Deadlines
See the Prospective Student Toolkit on the Graduate School website for information and fellowship funding opportunities for the upcoming Academic year.
To be eligible for certain recruiting fellowships, applications should be received by December 15. However, applications will be generally accepted through May 15 for admission to graduate school starting in fall semester, and through October 15 for admission to graduate school starting in spring semester. Under certain circumstances, these deadlines may be extended, so feel free to contact us.
Minimum Admission Requirements
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In addition to the requirements of the Graduate School, students should have a firm background in biology, with fundamentals of mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Opportunities exist early in a student's program to take background courses, if some undergraduate course work is lacking.
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A 3.0 grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) for undergraduate work, and 3.5 for prior graduate work are the preferred performance levels for admission. Graduate Record Exams (GRE's) are not required for admission. We consider all credentials provided in the application packet, to reach an individual admission decision for each applicant.
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For non-English speaking students, a minimum score on the TOEFL exam of 550 (or 213 on the computer-based exam), 80 on the MELAB, or 6.5 on the IELTS is the preferred performance level for admission. Read more information on language proficiency tests.
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Admission to our department is contingent on academic potential and the ability of a potential advisor to provide multi-year funding.
Materials
All application materials should be submitted directly to the online admissions system. We cannot review your application until all of the required materials listed below are submitted successfully.
Submission of the following indicates a complete application file:
Required
| Materials: | Where to submit: | How to submit: |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Electronically | Required fields: Personal Information, Application Information, Educational Background, Languages, Awards & Activities, Employment/Residence Information, Financial Support, Applicant Statements #1 & #2, and Recommendations. Optional fields: All other fields or application materials are optional, but will be taken into consideration if submitted. Click here to access the online application. |
| Application Fee | Electronically | Please visit Graduate School Admissions for more information about fees. |
| Transcripts | Electronically | Unofficial transcripts or academic records should be uploaded directly to the online application. International students should also upload an English translation if the transcript is not in English. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts, there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review. If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material. Please visit Graduate School Admissions for more information about uploading your transcripts and materials. |
| Three (3) Letters of Recommendation | Electronically or hardcopy via mail |
Acceptable recommendations will come from current or former professors who can assess your potential for graduate work. Other recommenders, such as employers, are also acceptable. Electronic submission is preferred, but recommendation letters can be sent directly to the department at the address below. More information on letters of recommendation can be found at Graduate School Admissions. |
| English Language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.) | Electronically | Please visit Graduate School Admissions for more information about TOEFL scores. |
| Publications | Electronically | Upload your publications and articles into the Other Information portion on the Graduate Program Supplementary Information section of the online application. |
If you have additional questions, please contact the Director of Graduate Studies or Tammi Pekkala-Matthews (Graduate Program Coordinator).
Entomology Address:
Director of Graduate Studies
University of Minnesota
Department of Entomology
219 Hodson Hall
1980 Folwell Ave.
St Paul, Minnesota 55108