Dr. Hipp investigates the person-environment relationship in the context of environmental change. This includes the psychosocial and physical health outcomes associated visits to and use of publicly funded open space, such as public parks. He looks specifically at those settings that are most susceptible to environmental change.

His past research includes a multi-year project (NOAA Sea Grant) on urban stormwater runoff policies and best management practices in Southern California. He also completed a Smithsonian Environmental Research Center ecological modeling study employing Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

Dr. Hipp co-chairs the Nature & Ecology Network within the Environmental Design Research Association.