BCE Intern Program
Accelerate Your Career
In today’s crowded job market, standing out early can make all the difference. Earning credentials like the Board Certified Entomologist (BCE) certification not only sets you apart from other candidates in the job search—it can fast-track your path to promotions and leadership opportunities. Certification can lead to better visibility, opportunities, and jobs.
Not ready for full certification? Start with the BCE Intern Program! The ESA Certification Corporation (ESACC)'s BCE Intern Program is an opportunity for entomology students or graduates (with at least a bachelor’s degree) who haven't yet met the full-time experience requirement. Endorsed by the Entomological Society of America, the BCE-Intern designation is globally respected step toward full certification—allowing you to begin the process while gaining the necessary experience..
Beginning your certification journey as a student or recent graduate gives you a unique advantage. You can take the BCE Core/Qualifying Exam while your academic knowledge and test taking skills are fresh. You will be able to benefit from the discounted rate. To help graduates establish themselves financially, ESA offers up to 90% off the application process. See the fee section below for more details.
Why Become a BCE Intern?
- Demonstrate your commitment to professional excellence in entomology
- Earn the right to display “BCE-Intern” after your name
- Gain recognition for your academic achievements and ethical standards
- Boost your visibility within ESA and the broader entomology community
- Build your online profile in ESA’s BCE membership directory
- Move toward full BCE certification with significantly reduced costs
- Connect with professionals and explore diverse career paths in entomology
Requirements:
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The Application Process
- Complete the BCE application (PDF).
- Be sure to select at least one specialty.
- Under the fees and payment information section, select the "Intern BCE application/examination fee" ($40 or $20 for ESA members).
- Submit the completed PDF with all of the required materials to bce@entocert.org.
- The Review.
- Your application will be reviewed by the Chair of the Examining Committee.
- You will hear within just a few days of receipt if your application was accepted or not.
Your Certification Pathway
The ESACC will streamline BCE-Interns’ transition to full credential holders once they:
- Pass the online BCE Qualifying Exam and at least one specialty exam of the applicant's choice
- Achieve full-time work experience.
- one year with a Ph.D.
- two years with a Master's degree
- three years with a Bachelor's degree
To qualify, the work must be outside of a university setting and not done in pursuit of any degree.
BCE Qualifying ExamPreparation The exam will cover much of the same information from collegiate entomology courses. Explore suggestions, including recommended books and study guides. Taking the Exam Select a proctor to administer your exam and schedule your exam within 365 days of submitting your application. |
Program Fees
| Type | Member Rate | Regular Rate |
|---|---|---|
| BCE Application for BCE-Intern Program* | ||
| Additional Specialty Admin Fee (optional) | $50 | $70 |
| Annual BCE-Intern Renewal | $20 | $40 |
| Annual BCE Renewal for Former BCE-Interns | $175 | $255 |
*Application fee includes the first attempt at the exam as well as one of the following specialties of choice: Urban & Industrial, Medical & Veterinary, General, and Plant-Related Entomology.
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Testimonial
“
Becoming a BCE-Intern has opened more doors than I could have imagined. BCE-Intern status has led to increased personal recognition and visibility in ESA... It has given me an opportunity to interact with entomology practitioners, become familiar with current pest management problems, and explore employment prospects in my specialty area.”
- Neil Spomer, Former BCE-Intern, Current BCE, Field Biologist, Dow AgroSciences
Ready to take the first step toward becoming a Board Certified Entomologist?Apply for the BCE Intern program and start building your future in entomology. |