Animal Sciences at Louisiana Tech University

At just under $22,000 in first-year earnings, Louisiana Tech's Animal Sciences graduates earn significantly less than the national median of $34,073—landing in the 5th percentile nationally. Even within Louisiana, where agricultural careers generally pay less than the national average, these graduates trail the state median by roughly $4,000. LSU's animal science program, the state's only other option, produces graduates earning nearly 36% more in their first year. While the debt load of $26,626 isn't dramatically high by national standards, it still exceeds first-year earnings, creating an immediate financial strain that typically signals a difficult start.

The small sample size here—fewer than 30 graduates—means these numbers could swing considerably with just a handful of different outcomes, so individual results may vary more than usual. However, the pattern is consistent with a broader challenge in animal sciences: many entry-level positions in veterinary assistance, livestock management, and agricultural operations simply don't pay well early on, even for graduates with solid technical training.

For families considering this path, understand that your child will likely face a tight first few years financially, potentially needing to supplement their income or live very frugally while building toward better-paying positions. If veterinary school or graduate study is the real goal, this could work as an affordable stepping stone. But as a standalone bachelor's degree for immediate employment, the economics are challenging compared to both state and national alternatives.