The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) interdepartmental graduate major was created following a growing realization in the 1980s that, although the fields of ecology and evolutionary biology were in general well-represented at ISU, there was little recognition of this group either within or outside the university due to the dispersion of faculty among many departments.

In combination with public recognition of increasing environmental and ecological problems both within Iowa and world-wide, there was a pressing need for greater visibility and more effective interaction among Ecology and Evolutionary Biology faculty at ISU. Thus, several faculty, from various departments, undertook the organization of the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology major, which was approved by the Iowa Board of Regents in February 1989.

Iowa State is an international university with a friendly welcoming personality. Students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries come to Ames, Iowa, to choose from 100 majors, study with world-class scholars and hone their leadership skills in 800-plus student organizations. Iowa State offers a great environment where students can enjoy reaching their potential and discovering their passions.