Zoology/Animal Biology at North Carolina State University at Raleigh

NC State's Zoology program sits in an interesting position: while graduates earn below the national median for the field, they're actually doing better than most North Carolina options. At $25,069 one year out, these graduates land in the 60th percentile among in-state programs—a meaningful advantage if you're weighing state tuition benefits. The $21,500 median debt is reasonable, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio under 1.0, though the relatively low starting salary still means tight budgets in those first years after graduation.

The real question is whether 19% earnings growth over four years is enough. By year four, graduates reach $29,778—approaching but not quite hitting the national median. This reflects a broader reality in zoology: it's a competitive field where entry-level positions often pay modestly, and career advancement requires additional credentials or specialized experience. The advantage here is graduating from a respected land-grant university with research connections, which can open doors to graduate programs or conservation organizations.

For families paying in-state tuition, this program makes more financial sense than the numbers might initially suggest. You're getting solid preparation at a competitive price point, with outcomes that beat most North Carolina alternatives. Just set realistic expectations about starting salaries, and be prepared to support your graduate through a period where student loan payments will take a noticeable bite out of their paycheck.