Zoology at University of Connecticut

Storrs, CT · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Zoology/Animal Biology
40 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
41
Optimistic
40
Base Case
37
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,618/yr (25% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Medium (29,200 openings/yr)
ROI 8.3x earnings multiple (3.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #7 of 55 Zoology/Animal Biology programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

UConn's Zoology/Animal Biology program stands out because it leverages the university's strong STEM foundation and research facilities, preparing you for diverse roles beyond just working with animals in a traditional zoo setting. The robust curriculum, often including opportunities for hands-on lab work and field research, equips graduates for positions in conservation, ecological consulting, veterinary support, and even pharmaceutical or biotech research utilizing animal models. This broad training, coupled with UConn’s regional reputation, opens doors to agencies like the DEEP, private research labs, and educational institutions across the Northeast, contributing to stronger early career outcomes. While some routine data analysis and lab tasks in biology face automation risk from AI, your critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and direct fieldwork skills will remain invaluable. Focus on securing internships and research assistantships to build practical experience and cultivate a diverse skillset that positions you for leadership or highly specialized roles that are less susceptible to technological disruption.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $696K $675K $600K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 8.5x 8.3x 7.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.0x 3.9x 3.5x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 41 40 37

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$81,464
Out-of-state: $172,136 (3.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$91,544
-12% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,250
7.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$73,079
105% growth from Year 1

About University of Connecticut

University of Connecticut accepts 54% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, enrolling 19,147 students in Storrs, CT.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Connecticut →

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 at Other Schools

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 40/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Zoology at University of Connecticut?
At 40/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Zoology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Zoology at University of Connecticut?
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.
Is University of Connecticut one of the best schools for Zoology?
Among 55 Zoology programs, University of Connecticut's #7 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →