Environmental studies encompasses relations among human beings and nature. Students with a major in this field will learn about environmental footprints and the implications they leave in both regional and global landscapes. An individual interested in this field may be interested in studying Environmental and Sustainability Studies, Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Outdoor Recreation, or Environmental Health. These majors encompass research, real-world application, and nature study.
Career Guide
Designing your major
Your major may be indirectly or directly related to your career choice, and it’s only one of many pieces to finding a good career fit. There are many majors that are related to the environment, including:
- Atmospheric Science
- Biology
- Earth and Atmospheric Science
- Earth Science
- Environmental and Sustainability Studies
- Environmental Geoscience
- Environmental Health
- Environmental Management
- Environmental Science
- Epidemiology
- Geography
- Outdoor Recreation, Parks, and Human Ecology
- Sustainable Business (co-major only)
Learn about careers in the field
- Conservation Biologist
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Educator
- Environmental Investigator
- Environmental Manager
- Environmental Planner
- Environmental Scientist
- Food Bank Manager
- Forester
- Geological Technician
- GIS Specialist
- Green Building Project Manager
- Industrial Ecologist
- Industrial Hygienist
- Natural Resource Specialist
- Outdoor Adventure Leader
- Park Ranger
- Parks Department Administrator
- Policy Analyst
- Recreation Manager
- Research Scientist
- Secondary Educator
- Sustainability Advocate
- Sustainability Coordinator
Learn through experience
Join a student organization
Student organizations can help us clarify our interests and build experience. Here are a few ideas of organizations in this area:
- AAPG Student Chapter at Indiana University
- Energy, Environment, and Sustainability Association
- Environmental Health Student Society at Indiana University
- Fair Trade at Indiana University
- Global Environmental Brigades: Panama, at Indiana University
- Indiana Forest Alliance at IU
- O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs Undergraduate Student Organization
- Real Food Challenge
- Student Sustainability Council
- The Journal of Undergraduate Research at Indiana University
- Beekeeping Club at IU
- Earth Club
- Net Impact: Sustainable Business Club
- Students for a New Green World
- Sustainable Development & Green Design
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering in the community has many benefits for the community and for your personal and professional development. How can you use your knowledge and skills to make a difference?
- Bloomington Community Bike Project
- The Bloomington Community Orchard
- Campus Garden Initiative
- Center for Sustainable Living (multiple opportunities available)
- Greening Cream & Crimson–IU Athletics
- Hoosier Hills Food Bank
- Hoosier to Hoosier Community Sale (H2H)
- IU Hilltop Garden and Nature Center
- Sustain Collins
Get an expert's perspective
Keep exploring
There are many ways to explore careers, through research, gaining experience, and talking with other people. Your career coach is here to mentor you and help you find ways to explore that fit you best.