Zoology/Animal Biology at North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Raleigh, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree
22 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
23
Optimistic
22
Base Case
21
Pessimistic
Earnings $25,069/yr (-12% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Medium (29,200 openings/yr)
ROI 11.3x earnings multiple (3.2x out-of-state)
Ranked #37 of 55 Zoology/Animal Biology programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Zoology/Animal Biology graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $393K $403K $395K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.0x 11.3x 11.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.1x 3.2x 3.1x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 23 22 21

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$35,580
Out-of-state: $127,068 (3.2x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$67,724
-90% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,500
9.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$29,778
19% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Graduates earn $25,069/yr, roughly in line with the $28,448 national median for Zoology/Animal Biology. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.

With a 11.3x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The -1% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Zoology/Animal Biology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $20,500 against $25,069/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #37 ranking among 55 Zoology/Animal Biology programs places North Carolina State University at Raleigh in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About North Carolina State University at Raleigh

North Carolina State University at Raleigh accepts 40% of applicants — selective, though not ultra-competitive, with 26,389 students enrolled in Raleigh, NC.

See all programs and financial aid at North Carolina State University at Raleigh →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Biological scientists, all other $93,330/yr
Biological science teachers, postsecondary $83,460/yr
View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Zoology/Animal Biology at Other Schools

Other Majors at North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 22/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Zoology/Animal Biology at North Carolina State University at Raleigh?
At 22/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Zoology/Animal Biology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Zoology/Animal Biology at North Carolina State University at Raleigh?
The 46% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →