How To Become An Entomologist With Board Certification?

To become a Board Certified Entomologist (BCE), one must meet certain requirements, including adhering to the BCE Code of Ethics, scoring at least 70 on the BCE Core or Qualifying exam, and passing at least one specialty examination. The Entomological Society of America (ESA) offers certification programs such as Associate Certified Entomologist, Board Certified Entomologist, and a Public.

To become a BCE, one must meet the education and experience requirements, including a bachelor’s degree in entomology or a related field, and three years of full-time work experience. The latter certification is specifically for pest management and requires an Associates of Arts or Associates of Sciences degree or higher but has a work experience requirement of less than that.

The BCE program, administered by the ESA Certification Corporation, is the most respected professional credential in entomology. This comprehensive course equips individuals with the advanced knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field of entomology. All BCEs must have at least a bachelor’s degree in entomology or a closely related scientific field, or combine either a bachelor’s degree and three years of full-time work experience.

To prepare for the ACE Examination administered by the ESA, Entomologists can take the 8-hour course, which includes passing two exams and having at least three years of full-time work experience. By following these steps, one can prove their capabilities to customers and employers in the field of entomology.

What Certifications Do You Need To Be An Entomologist?

Entomologists can attain certification as a Board Certified Entomologist (BCE) through the Entomological Society of America (ESA) by passing two exams and having graduate-level education, or as an Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) by passing one comprehensive exam. Their work involves studying insects, including their behaviors and environments, often specializing in specific species or industry-related applications. Generally, entomologists do not require a license to practice, although certain roles in pest control may have different requirements.

Certification is typically expected by employers before starting in the field. The best college majors for aspiring entomologists include Zoology, Biology, and Ecology, and pursuing advanced degrees can benefit those looking for specialized or research roles. Gaining practical experience through internships or fieldwork is essential for career development. Most entomologists hold at least a bachelor’s degree (BSc), with many having further qualifications such as Master’s (MSc) or Doctoral degrees (DPhil/PhD).

While formal degrees in entomology are not commonplace, various institutions in the UK and Ireland offer relevant courses that incorporate entomology components. Meeting educational requirements and obtaining practical experience are crucial steps toward certification as BCE or ACE, particularly for those interested in pest management.

Which Entomologist Certifications Are Available?

The Entomological Society of America (ESA) offers two certification programs for entomologists: the Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) for structural entomologists and the Board Certified Entomologist (BCE) for general entomologists. These programs are governed by the Certification Board, which establishes educational requirements, work experience, and ethical standards. BCEs must adhere to the Board's Code of Ethics. The ACE credential supports pest management professionals and enhances their career prospects.

ESA provides professional development resources, including webinars, and allows members to submit symposiums or workshops. Those interested in these certifications should first earn a bachelor's degree in biology, entomology, or a related field. The certifications not only affirm an individual’s expertise but also improve job visibility and opportunities within a competitive field. ESA’s certifications include the Public Health Entomology (PHE) and Certified IPM Technician (CIT) programs.

The Board Certified Entomologist (BCE) requires passing two exams and meeting specific requirements, signaling professional competency. Additionally, ESA offers a non-degree Certificate Program in the Fundamentals of Entomology through distance education. Aspiring entomologists can pursue these educational and certification pathways to advance their careers in entomology and related disciplines.

How Much Is An Entomology Degree?

Tuition expenses for Entomology majors average $10, 092 at in-state public colleges and $62, 456 for out-of-state private institutions. The most prevalent providers of Entomology programs are public, 4-year or above colleges, totaling 36. Pursuing a career as an entomologist involves several key steps: education, practical experience, and specialization opportunities. Typically, aspiring entomologists require at least a bachelor's degree in entomology or related fields such as biology, zoology, or environmental science, with costs ranging from $30, 000 to $50, 000 for the undergraduate degree.

Those with advanced degrees can expect higher salaries, with the average salary for entomologists noted at approximately $68, 916 annually by December 2024. The field is often associated with wildlife biology, as entomologists specialize in insect life. In 2025, College Factual recognized eight institutions for its Best Entomology Bachelor's Degree Schools ranking, which collectively awarded 137 degrees. Additionally, specific programs offer majors, minors, and certificates in Entomology and Nematology, with tuition costing $524.

67 per credit hour, regardless of location. Graduate tuition varies by program and credit hours. Overall, a degree in entomology offers strong scientific foundations and diverse career paths for nature enthusiasts, with many employers necessitating a bachelor’s degree as a minimum requirement.

What Entomologist Certification Does ESA Offer?

The Entomological Society of America (ESA) offers a certification program that assesses the knowledge and experience of practicing entomologists, allowing qualified participants to earn the designation of Board Certified Entomologist (BCE). The ESA Certification Corporation provides two main certifications: the Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) and the Board Certified Entomologist (BCE). The ACE certification is designed for pest management professionals with substantial training and serves as a benchmark for professionalism within the industry. ESA offers numerous professional development opportunities, including webinars, and encourages membership engagement through proposals for workshops and symposiums.

Since its inception in 2004, the ESA Certification Corporation has certified over 1, 000 pest management professionals, and it continues to enhance its services with new online submission forms for ACE applications. The BCE program is particularly recognized for its stringent requirements, catering to individuals with degrees in entomology or related fields. Additionally, ESA offers various discounts for certification programs for professionals working in insect-related fields.

The organization also hosts events aimed at improving pay transparency and equity for entomologists. With a focus on elevating standards and promoting professional development, ESA remains a leader in entomology certification and education, supporting both the pest management industry and the broader entomological community.

How Many Associate Certified Entomologists Are There?

The Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) program, established in 2004, recognizes pest management professionals with significant training and experience in insect-related work. Currently, more than 1, 200 individuals hold this certification, after passing rigorous examinations to assess their pest control knowledge. ACE certification enhances visibility, opportunities, and job prospects within the specialized economy of pest management. The majority of ACEs are scientists, teachers, consultants, entomologists, and researchers, showcasing the high level of expertise in the field.

To qualify for ACE certification, applicants must have at least seven years of pest management experience and successfully complete a comprehensive examination. In addition, the Entomological Society of America (ESA) offers the Board Certified Entomologist (BCE) credential for individuals with a Bachelor's Degree in Entomology or a related field, requiring at least two years of professional experience. Only about 1% of pest control professionals achieve ACE certification, highlighting its prestige and the advanced knowledge of certified individuals.

American Pest has recently expanded its team with seven new Associate Certified Entomologists, emphasizing the organization's commitment to delivering quality pest control services. With the ESA's support, professionals in the industry gain access to a network of nearly 7, 000 entomologists, providing invaluable resources and connections within the realm of insect science. The ACE program represents a significant milestone for pest management careers, enabling professionals to excel without necessarily holding an academic degree in entomology.

Is There A High Demand For Entomologists?

The recent surge in popularity of insect exhibits in zoos, botanical gardens, and butterfly houses has led to an increased demand for trained entomologists skilled in insect husbandry, communication, and appreciation. The projected job growth for entomologists from 2018 to 2028 indicates a strong interest in this field, with approximately 2, 898 entomologists currently employed in the United States.

Interest in insect production for pest management, food sources (entomophagy), pollination, and bioproducts has also risen, although medical entomologists are in short supply despite their critical role in controlling insect-borne diseases.

As employment opportunities in the broader fields of zoology and wildlife biology are expected to grow by 4% by 2033, entomology jobs are available across various sectors including nonprofit, government, industry, and policy organizations. However, many appealing positions, such as those in museums, often face high demand with low pay. The need for specialized professionals to identify disease vectors remains crucial, yet the number of qualified medical entomologists is insufficient.

Challenges such as the decline of certain insect species and the relocation of disease carriers highlight the urgent need for entomologists. Despite the increasing opportunities in the field, a consistent pipeline of new professionals is necessary to replace aging specialists. Education pathways in entomology are available at agricultural colleges in the U. S., paving the way for aspiring entomologists to enter this critical and growing field. The overall outlook suggests a promising future for those pursuing a career in entomology, driven by both conservation efforts and the need for pest management.

How Many Years Does It Take To Become An Entomologist?

The Department of Entomology and Nematology at UC Davis offers a four-year bachelor’s degree in entomology, with specializations available in medical entomology and toxicology. Job growth for zoologists and wildlife biologists is projected at 4% over the decade leading to 2033, closely aligning with the overall average for all occupations. Most new entomologist positions are anticipated in biotechnology or environmental sectors.

To become an entomologist, prospective students typically need a bachelor’s degree, which takes about four years to complete. It is advisable to focus on biology, zoology, ecology, and specifically entomology during undergraduate studies to establish a solid foundation. While some universities offer dedicated entomology programs, degrees in related fields like biology or anthropology are also acceptable and can lead to an entomology career.

The standard entry point into the field is a Bachelor of Science in Entomology, requiring completion of 120 credits. Candidates interested in entomology may also benefit from additional coursework in math and science during high school to prepare for college-level studies. Optional modules in entomology should be prioritized, especially in combined degree programs.

For advancement in the field, many entomologists pursue further education, obtaining master's (MSc) or doctoral degrees (PhD). These qualifications provide opportunities to engage in government roles or specialized positions.

In summary, a career as an entomologist can commence with a bachelor’s degree, but additional specialization through master’s or doctoral studies is typical and may enhance job prospects and salary potential. The profession requires strong technical skills and research experience, which are critical for success in insect science.

What Is Board Certification In Entomology?

Board certification in entomology, offered by the Entomological Society of America (ESA), is a significant distinction for professionals in the field. It serves to validate their expertise to customers and employers, thereby setting them apart from their peers. The two main certification options provided by ESA include the Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) for structural entomologists and the Board Certified Entomologist (BCE) for general entomologists. The BCE credential, recognized as the most prestigious in entomology, requires candidates to meet rigorous education, work experience, and ethical standards.

Even if one does not qualify for BCE certification, opportunities still exist, especially for individuals with advanced degrees in entomology, such as a PhD. Certification can enhance professional credibility, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining industry standards and staying informed about advancements in the field. The BCE program assesses the knowledge and experience of entomologists through a core exam covering the fundamentals of entomology and specialty exams tailored to urban and industrial pest management.

Moreover, certification creates pathways for professional development, including webinars and access to exclusive ESA resources. Certifications not only signify professionalism but also ensure that certified entomologists are knowledgeable about current practices and regulations impacting their work. The process of attaining these credentials further enriches an entomologist’s career, as the certification confirms their competency in various aspects of insect science, making it a valuable step for those committed to the field. Thus, obtaining board certification could provide significant advantages in proving one's capabilities and enhancing career prospects within the entomology profession.