Zoology/Animal Biology at Oregon State University-Cascades Campus

Oregon State's Cascades Campus zoology program lands squarely in the middle of the pack nationally, but performs reasonably well within Oregon—placing in the 60th percentile among in-state options. At $27,491 in first-year earnings, graduates start just below the national median, though the debt load of $25,500 is lighter than most peer programs. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.93 means students borrow roughly what they'll earn in their first year, which is manageable but requires careful budgeting early on.

The 11% earnings bump from year one to year four shows modest but steady progress, reaching $30,402—about average for this field. Zoology typically serves as a stepping stone to graduate work or specialized roles, so these early numbers may not capture the full picture for students planning advanced degrees. However, for those entering the workforce immediately, expect entry-level pay in wildlife services, lab work, or environmental monitoring.

The relatively low debt burden is this program's strongest selling point. If your child is passionate about animal biology and either plans to continue their education or is comfortable with below-median starting salaries, the financial foundation here is solid enough. Just recognize they'll likely need additional credentials or experience to reach higher earning potential in conservation or research careers.