Zoology/Animal Biology at California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt

Cal Poly Humboldt's zoology program sits right at the national median for earnings but tells a different story within California—it ranks in just the 25th percentile statewide, with first-year earnings nearly $9,000 below the California median of $37,633. More concerning, graduates see their earnings drop by 7% over four years rather than grow, while carrying debt loads that are actually higher than most other California zoology programs ($20,690 versus the state median of $15,845).

The program does serve a meaningful population—46% of students receive Pell grants—and debt remains manageable at 0.72 times first-year earnings. However, comparing to programs like SF State (where graduates earn $41,565) or UC Santa Barbara ($37,633) reveals a significant earnings gap that compounds over time. The declining earnings trajectory suggests graduates may struggle to advance in their careers or find themselves in roles that don't require the degree.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether access to Cal Poly Humboldt's location and campus justifies earning substantially less than graduates from other California zoology programs. The moderate debt is a plus, but when paired with below-average state earnings that actually decline, this investment looks weak compared to alternatives within California's public university system.