Animal Sciences at University of California-Davis

UC Davis graduates with an animal sciences degree start modestly at $32,309—trailing both the national median and competitors like Fresno State ($40,311) and Cal Poly Pomona ($37,349). However, the real story emerges over time: earnings jump 31% by year four to $42,226, suggesting graduates successfully transition into veterinary medicine, research roles, or specialized agricultural positions that reward UC Davis's strong reputation in life sciences. This trajectory matters more than the initial paycheck for a field where many graduates pursue additional training or work their way up through clinical and research positions.

The debt picture is remarkably favorable. At $13,625, graduates carry roughly half the state median ($17,334) and barely a third of the national median ($22,148) for this major. That translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42—manageable even at the lower starting salary—and positions graduates well if they need to take on additional loans for veterinary or graduate school. Among California's five animal sciences programs, UC Davis sits near the middle for earnings but offers the financial flexibility that matters most in a field where many students continue their education.

For families considering pre-veterinary pathways or animal science careers, UC Davis delivers what matters: access to one of the nation's top veterinary schools, strong earning momentum after graduation, and minimal debt burden. The initial salary gap closes quickly, and the low debt load keeps doors open for graduate education without financial strain.