University of Iowa

What you'll study

The programme builds from the core principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics and emphasises quantitative skills that are essential for environmental work. Early coursework typically covers intermediate microeconomic theory, intermediate macroeconomics, and econometrics or statistical methods for economists. From there, students take specialised modules that apply economic reasoning to environmental questions.

• Core economics: principles of micro and macro, intermediate theory, econometrics/statistics, and mathematical methods for economists.
• Environmental and resource economics: valuation of environmental goods and services, natural-resource economics, non-market valuation, and benefit–cost analysis.
• Public economics and policy: environmental regulation, taxation and subsidy design, property rights, and the economics of pollution control and climate policy.
• Applied and interdisciplinary electives: land use and urban economics, agricultural and food systems economics, energy economics, climate change economics, environmental law and policy, and geographic information systems (GIS) as an applied tool.
• Research, capstone and practical experience: options often include an undergraduate seminar or capstone project, independent study with faculty, and internships with public agencies, non‑profits or private consultancies.

Students are encouraged to combine coursework from related units—such as environmental science, public policy, geography, or law—to gain interdisciplinary perspectives. Hands‑on data analysis and empirical projects form a regular component of advanced courses.

Entry requirements

Admission is to the University of Iowa undergraduate programme, after which students declare an economics major. Typical preparation includes a high school diploma (or equivalent) with strong performance in mathematics. Recommended subjects include calculus and statistics, along with courses that develop written communication and analytical thinking.

• Academic preparation: strong grades in mathematics and quantitatively oriented courses; completion of first‑year university composition or equivalent for transfer students.
• Standardised tests: the university considers test scores where submitted, but many applicants are admitted without them; check the institution’s current testing policy for details.
• Additional evidence: statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and evidence of relevant extracurricular experience (such as research, internships, or sustainability projects) can strengthen an application.
• Transfer and non‑traditional students: transfer credit for introductory economics, calculus and statistics is often recognised; applicants should consult admissions advisors about course equivalencies.

Career prospects

Graduates with a concentration in environmental economics and policy are well placed for roles that require quantitative analysis of environmental problems and the design of policy instruments. Typical entry‑level roles include:

• policy analyst or research assistant in government departments dealing with environment, natural resources or energy;
• analyst or consultant in environmental consulting firms and economic consultancies;
• research or programme roles in non‑governmental organisations and think tanks focusing on sustainability, conservation and climate policy;
• data and quantitative analyst roles in utilities, energy companies or agricultural firms addressing environmental compliance and resource management.

Many graduates also move on to postgraduate study (for example, a master’s or PhD in environmental economics, public policy, resource economics or related fields) to develop specialised research careers or to pursue roles in academia and high‑level policy design.

Why study at University of Iowa

The University of Iowa combines a well‑established economics curriculum with opportunities for interdisciplinary work in environmental research. Students benefit from faculty actively working on environmental and resource economics questions and from research centres on campus that support cross‑disciplinary collaboration.

• Interdisciplinary opportunities: easy access to colleagues and coursework in environmental science, geography, public policy and law, enabling a broader approach to environmental problems.
• Research and practical experience: undergraduate research placements, faculty‑led projects and internship links with state agencies and regional organisations provide practical experience.
• Support for skills development: emphasis on empirical methods, data analysis and communication prepares graduates for analytical and advisory roles.
• Regional engagement: proximity to state and regional environmental bodies and to a varied landscape of agricultural and energy industries creates opportunities for applied projects and employment.

Together, these features make the University of Iowa’s economics major with an environmental focus a strong choice for students aiming to apply economic tools to real‑world environmental and policy challenges.