Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release).
Analysis
UConn Hartford's Animal Sciences program delivers exactly the median performance for Connecticut—which itself outperforms three-quarters of similar programs nationwide. Starting at $37,712 and climbing to $47,096 within four years represents solid, steady growth in a field not known for high early salaries. The debt load of $23,515 is manageable, translating to a 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio that's well below typical concern thresholds.
The real story here is consistency: all five Connecticut institutions offering this degree report identical outcomes, suggesting strong state-level career pathways regardless of campus. What matters more is the 25% earnings growth trajectory, which indicates graduates successfully transition from entry-level animal care or veterinary assistant roles into positions with more responsibility. The 46% Pell Grant rate shows UConn Hartford serves a broad economic cross-section without sacrificing outcomes.
For families weighing this investment, the numbers work. Graduates aren't getting rich, but they're building sustainable careers in a field they presumably love, with debt they can reasonably handle. If your child is committed to working with animals—and understands this won't be a high-earning path—this program provides legitimate preparation without the financial strain that can come from programs where passion meets poor economics.
Where University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all animal sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus | $37,712 | $47,096 | +25% |
| University of Connecticut | $37,712 | $47,096 | +25% |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $37,712 | $47,096 | +25% |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point | $37,712 | $47,096 | +25% |
| University of Connecticut-Stamford | $37,712 | $47,096 | +25% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Animal Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (5 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $17,452 | $37,712 | $47,096 | $23,515 | 0.62 | |
| $20,366 | $37,712 | $47,096 | $23,515 | 0.62 | |
| $17,462 | $37,712 | $47,096 | $23,515 | 0.62 | |
| $17,462 | $37,712 | $47,096 | $23,515 | 0.62 | |
| $17,472 | $37,712 | $47,096 | $23,515 | 0.62 | |
| National Median | — | $34,073 | — | $22,148 | 0.65 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with animal sciences graduates
Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers
Agricultural Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
Animal Scientists
Agricultural Technicians
Precision Agriculture Technicians
Farm and Home Management Educators
First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers
Explore Related Programs
Animal Sciences in Connecticut
- University of Connecticut$37,712
- University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus$37,712
- University of Connecticut-Avery Point$37,712
- University of Connecticut-Stamford$37,712
Explore further
- All Programs in crop science, animal science, agricultural business, horticulture, and food science. Covers modern farming, sustainable agriculture, agribusiness management, and food production. programs nationwide
- All programs at University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus
- College programs in Connecticut
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus, approximately 46% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 74 graduates with reported earnings and 112 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.