Zoology/Animal Biology at Texas A&M University-College Station

Texas A&M's Zoology program delivers an unusual combination: earnings that beat 79% of similar programs nationally, yet debt levels that rank among the highest in the country. At $31,485 first-year out, graduates earn more than the national median ($28,461) and slightly edge out the Texas median ($30,736)—placing them in the 60th percentile statewide. The $17,500 in typical debt is actually lower than both national and state medians, though it still represents the 95th percentile nationally, meaning most comparable programs saddle students with even more debt. The 0.56 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly seven months of their first-year salary, which is manageable compared to many life science degrees.

The challenge here is inherent to the field itself: zoology and animal biology simply don't command high starting salaries, regardless of school quality. Texas A&M's strong agricultural and veterinary science reputation appears to give its graduates a modest edge in the job market. However, parents should understand that $31,000 goes further in College Station than in many career hubs, and many graduates use this degree as a stepping stone to veterinary school, graduate programs, or specialized wildlife positions that pay better with experience.

For students genuinely passionate about animal science and realistic about early-career earnings, this represents solid preparation at a respected institution with relatively contained debt. Just ensure your child has a clear plan for leveraging the degree beyond entry-level positions.