Master’s Degree

The University of Florida’s Online Master’s Degree in Entomology and Nematology

We know that entomology isn’t a one-size-fits-all subject. That’s why our master’s degree offers four specializations that allow you to tailor your degree to a focus area of your choice. You can either take a broad program of study in entomology or specialize in a particular area within entomology by completing a 15-credit graduate certificate while earning your master’s degree. The certificate name will be written on your transcript, in addition to the Master of Science in Entomology and Nematology.

Specialization options include:

One of the many advantages of choosing the University of Florida is that our online programs allow you to complete this program entirely online at your own pace, from just about anywhere. Living in another state? No problem. Settled somewhere across the globe? We welcome you with open arms.

We also accept students year-round, allowing you to enroll at your convenience. While most students earn their degree within two to four years, you have up to seven years to complete the program, giving you the opportunity you to take time off if needed. See the non-thesis MS handbook for more information.

Suggested Progression of Courses

1. If you have never taken an entomology course, start with Graduate Survey of Entomology (ENY 5006 and ENY 5006L) before taking any of our other entomology courses.

2. We suggest taking Insect Classification (ENY 6166) next. Once you’ve completed this course, you’ll have the necessary entomology background for our other program courses.

3. Take Statistics (STA 6166 or STA 6093) before taking Insect Ecology Lab (ENY 6203L).

4. If you plan on taking Insect Physiology (ENY 6401) and have not recently taken a high-level undergraduate biochemistry or molecular biology course, we suggest taking Biochemistry (BCH 5045) or Insect Molecular Genetics (ENY 5820) in advance of this course.

Cost

Tuition is $524.67 per credit hour. Some courses may require textbooks or additional fees.

Admission Requirements

Master’s Degree:

  • A bachelor’s degree in a science field from a regionally accredited university or international equivalent. If your undergraduate degree is not in a science field, it should be supplemented with the following coursework:
    • One year (two semesters) of general biology
    • At least one semester of general chemistry
    • Algebra and trigonometry
    • At least one semester of physics (recommended)
    • Introductory statistics (recommended)
  • An upper-division undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Acceptable TOEFL scores (international students only)
  • Three letters of recommendation from individuals in a position to evaluate your academic potential*
  • A resume/CV*
  • A statement of purpose, written by the student, which should indicate previous training and experience, interests, and educational and career goals as an entomologist or nematologist*

Pursuant to Florida Statute, your application requires inclusion of all post-high school education and employment, as well as information about ongoing international affiliations and research funding. Please ensure this information is included on your curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé.

* These materials can be appended to your online application.

For more information about admission requirements, please visit the admissions page.

Requirements to Earn Degree
Our online, non-thesis entomology master’s degree requires 30 credit hours of coursework. At least 15 of these 30 credits must be earned through graded courses in the Entomology & Nematology major at the 5000 level. Six of these 30 credits may be S/U graded. One or two minors of at least 6 credits each may be chosen, but are not required. Six credits outside the major may be courses numbered 3000 and 4000. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required in the major, the minor and to graduate. No grade below a “C” will count toward your degree. Students must be enrolled for a minimum of 3 credit hours of coursework to graduate during spring or fall semesters and for 2 credit hours to graduate in a summer semester.

Transferring Credits Toward a Master’s Degree
Up to 15 credits earned in your UF certificate program or up to 6 credits (two courses) earned as a non-degree seeking student can be transferred to the master’s degree. For credits to transfer, you must apply and be admitted to the master’s degree program and have earned a grade of “B” or higher in the course(s). International students will also need to have acceptable TOEFL scores. Successful completion of courses taken as a graduate certificate or non-degree seeking student does NOT guarantee acceptance into the master’s degree program.

Final Examination
The final examination consists of both written and oral components and is usually given in the last semester of the program. The exam may contain questions from subject matter covered in any of the required courses taken during the program. The written exam will be taken on a computer and will be proctored, using an online proctoring service such as ProctorU. The oral exam will be conducted via Skype or Zoom, at a time convenient to the student and their committee members.

Distance Program Coordinator
The distance coordinator for this program is Dr. Georgette Kluiters.

Library Access
Students taking UF Entomology and Nematology courses can use their Gatorlink account to access their online courses, UF libraries and billing.


Learn More About the Program

Click for details about the Entomology and Nematology program.