"While the concept of environmental science has existed for centuries, it came alive as a substantive, active field of scientific investigation in the 1960s and 1970s driven by (a) the need for a large multi-disciplined team to analyze complex environmental problems, (b) the arrival of substantive environmental laws requiring specific environmental protocols of investigation and (c) the growing public awareness of a need for action in addressing environmental problems." -Wikipedia

As an Environmental Science major at Iowa State you are given the ability to tailor your degree to your intended area of focus. This allows you to aim your degree in Environmental Science towards specific particular career goals. More...

According to the U.S. Department of Labor employment for environmental scientists is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations. The majority of Environmental Scientists are employed in governmental positions, but the job market in the private sector more specifically consulting firms is expected to see the most growth because of public policy demand for new rules and regulations.