Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology at University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus

UConn Hartford's ecology program matches the state median for first-year earnings at $32,882, which puts it in the 72nd percentile nationally—a solid position for a field that typically starts modestly. The program carries $26,798 in median debt, slightly above the national median but still resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.81. That means graduates are borrowing less than a year's salary, which is generally considered reasonable territory.

The earnings trajectory offers some reassurance: graduates see 17% growth from year one to year four, reaching $38,352. This isn't spectacular growth, but it's steady improvement in a field where many graduates pursue graduate degrees or non-profit work that may initially limit earnings. The 86% admission rate and strong Pell grant enrollment (46%) suggest this program serves a diverse student body, many of whom are first-generation college students making this field accessible.

For families weighing this investment, the key question is career intention. If your student plans to pursue graduate work in ecology or conservation biology (common for this degree), these early earnings are less concerning. If they expect to enter the workforce directly, they should understand they're entering a field with modest starting salaries. The debt level is manageable enough that either path remains viable without crushing financial pressure.