The name "entomology" is derived from Greek, meaning "study of insects." Undergraduate entomological study usually begins with survey-level education in biological sciences, chemistry, math and physics. Junior and senior-standing undergraduates then focus more specifically on entomology itself, with several subfields in study, including agriculture, bee management, behavior, ecology, natural history and physiology.
Graduate-level education in entomology offers masters and doctoral-level degrees. These programs emphasize applied entomology for use in problem solving in areas including the environment, agriculture and biology. Students focus on studying agricultural entomology, bees, biological control, behavior, toxicology, biochemistry and physiology, among other specializations. Graduate-level degrees are generally required in order to hold research or educational job positions in the field.
Those with bachelor's degrees in entomology have job opportunities as food inspectors, biological technicians or insecticide sales representatives. Their general science education can also provide opportunities for other unspecialized scientific jobs, or serve as a basis for unrelated, yet advanced education such as veterinary or medical school. Graduate-level degrees may work for private firms or government agencies in entomological fields. These fields can range from agricultural studies to insecticide research to forensics. Highly educated entomologists may also find work as researchers or educators within universities.
Insect behavior is both integral to sustained human life and an annoyance to daily activity. While insects like bees play a very important role in pollinating fruit buds and producing honey, other insects like termites and mosquitoes are exceedingly dangerous to human property and health. Entomologists study these insects and their behavior in order to better understand, control and adapt to them.