Earn your BA in Environmental Policy & Planning

The Environmental Policy and Planning major at Iowa empowers students to address pressing environmental challenges through policy or planning pathways. Students drawn to this major are focused on learning about the environment through a human-centered lens.

You'll explore solutions for land use, water access, and climate change, gaining practical skills and real-world experience. Our program's unique interdisciplinary approach fosters a deep understanding of environmental policy and planning tools, preparing you to make a difference in shaping a sustainable future.

The major comprises two tracks that focus on policy and planning. Students in both tracks build a solid foundation and gain practical, real-world experience as part of their degree program. Coursework incorporates field trips, guest speakers, and projects focused on local environmental challenges that are structured to help you build on-the-ground experience in planning and policy and to foster connections with potential employers. You can complete internships, conduct research with faculty, and study abroad through a variety of programs, allowing for a tailored learning experience to develop knowledge, skills, and connections.

You'll graduate prepared to address environmental challenges in areas like land use and zoning, access to clean water, and climate change adaptation and mitigation and will be prepared for careers in the public sector, large corporations, and smaller companies, or continue your education by attending law school or planning and public affairs school.