Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology at University of Connecticut-Avery Point

UConn-Avery Point's ecology program punches above its weight nationally, placing graduates in the 72nd percentile for earnings despite the school's open admission policies. While that $32,882 starting salary is roughly what graduates earn statewide, it's meaningfully higher than the $29,460 national median for this specialized biology track. The debt picture is particularly encouraging—at $26,798, graduates owe less than typical for this field nationally (14th percentile for debt), creating a manageable 0.81 debt-to-earnings ratio that beats many comparable programs.

The 17% earnings growth to $38,352 by year four suggests the degree opens doors beyond entry-level positions. However, it's worth noting this is tied with other UConn campuses at the top of Connecticut's rankings, which may reflect the strength of the broader UConn system rather than campus-specific advantages. For a field that typically leads to lower-paying conservation, research assistant, or education roles early in career, these numbers represent solid footing.

For families weighing this against other biology concentrations, the key question is career trajectory. If your child is committed to ecology or evolutionary biology specifically—perhaps heading toward graduate school or environmental consulting—this program delivers competitive preparation without crushing debt. The combination of below-average borrowing and above-average starting earnings makes it one of the more financially sensible paths in a field not known for immediate financial returns.