This 3-credit course is designed to study the fascinating natural histories and behaviors of honey bees and other social insects (native social bees, some wasps, ants and termites). These insect societies demonstrate cooperative behavior and collective decision-making with no central authority. Lecture topics include the evolution of social behavior in insects, current theories on the division of labor and self-organization, caste determination, pheromones and communication, and much more.

Offered: Every other Fall semester (2009). Use section number 65169 when registering for this course.

Register for this course via the University of Minnesota Registrar.

Ent 4022: Bee Management

This 1-credit course is taught during Intersession (3 weeks in May-June). Students will learn all the basics of honey bee management, including queen rearing. In addition, students will learn how to rear bumblebees for pollination of tomatoes and other native crops and wildflowers, and how to trap-nest the Blue Orchard bee for apple pollination. Enrollment is limited to 18 to give each student individualized, hands-on training and experience.

Register for this course via the University of Minnesota Registrar.

2006 Bee Management Class [click image to view a larger photo]