Analysis
UConn-Stamford's Zoology program delivers remarkably strong outcomes for a life sciences degree that typically struggles to launch careers. At $35,618 in year one, graduates earn 25% more than the national median for this major and land in the 95th percentile nationally—a standout performance. The program sits exactly at Connecticut's median for animal biology, which itself ranks well above national norms. With debt of $23,750 and steady earnings growth to $43,133 by year four, graduates face a manageable 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio and see a 21% income increase over their first four years.
What makes this particularly noteworthy is the institution's accessibility: with an 80% admission rate and half the student body on Pell grants, this isn't an elite program cherry-picking top students. The strong outcomes suggest effective career preparation and industry connections that help graduates enter the workforce successfully. The program essentially matches performance across all UConn campuses for this major, indicating consistent quality throughout the system.
For families concerned about biology majors leading nowhere, this program offers reassurance. Graduates aren't getting rich, but they're earning solidly above peers nationwide while carrying reasonable debt. If your child is serious about animal biology and wants to stay in Connecticut, this represents one of the stronger value propositions available—especially given the accessible admissions and proven track record of placing graduates into jobs that actually pay.
Where University of Connecticut-Stamford Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all zoology/animal biology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Connecticut-Stamford 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-Stamford | $35,618 | $43,133 | +21% |
| University of Connecticut | $35,618 | $43,133 | +21% |
| University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus | $35,618 | $43,133 | +21% |
| University of Connecticut-Avery Point | $35,618 | $43,133 | +21% |
| University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus | $35,618 | $43,133 | +21% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Zoology/Animal Biology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (5 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Connecticut-StamfordStamford | $17,472 | $35,618 | $43,133 | $23,750 | 0.67 |
 University of ConnecticutStorrs | $20,366 | $35,618 | $43,133 | $23,750 | 0.67 |
 University of Connecticut-Waterbury CampusWaterbury | $17,462 | $35,618 | $43,133 | $23,750 | 0.67 |
 University of Connecticut-Avery PointGroton | $17,462 | $35,618 | $43,133 | $23,750 | 0.67 |
 University of Connecticut-Hartford CampusHartford | $17,452 | $35,618 | $43,133 | $23,750 | 0.67 |
| National Median | — | $28,461 | — | $24,393 | 0.86 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with zoology/animal biology graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
Biological Technicians
Biological Scientists, All Other
Bioinformatics Scientists
Molecular and Cellular Biologists
Geneticists
Biologists
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-Stamford, approximately 50% 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 61 graduates with reported earnings and 108 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.