Departmental research and teaching activities focus on three areas: Integrated Agricultural Pest Management includes crop, forest, veterinary and biological control entomology; Urban Entomology includes structural and medical entomology; and Integrative Biology includes systematic, physiology, toxicology, ecology and conservation biology. Two legislative enhancements for Formosan subterranean termite and red imported fire ant research and extension support teams of research and extension faculty who advanced and disseminate knowledge to improve management of these target pests.
The department does not offer an undergraduate major, but interested students may focus in Entomology through concentration areas in Agricultural Pest Management or Urban Entomology under the Plant and Soil System Major. The department also offers a minor in Entomology. Research faculty provide a large number of undergraduate research opportunities, including independent research projects that lead to college honors. Graduate education is offered at M.S. and Ph.D. levels. Prospective graduate students are encouraged to contact faculty members in their areas of interest (see faculty directory).
The Entomology Department arguably interacts with a broader proportion of the general public than does any other department at LSU. Every citizen in Louisiana has an interest in insects , whether as agricultural commodity producer, natural resources manager , medical or veterinary provider, outdoor recreationist, homeowner or gardener. Faculty and students provide entomology presentations and training to Extension Agents, K-12 teachers, Master Gardeners and other groups. Because of their diversity and economic and ecological importance, insects attract attention and stimulate interest in science at an early age.
External funding for the department amounts to $2-4 million annually. Undergraduate and graduate research is supported in all areas primarily through external funding, with additional support from AgCenter, College of Agriculture and LSU. Departmental students have completed successfully for Graduate Supplements and Dissertation Year Fellowships from the Graduate School. Several students have acquired NSF or other fellowship support. Graduates have pursued careers in academia, chemical industry, agricultural consulting and various state and federal public health, pest management, environmental management and conservation agencies.