Zoology at University of New Hampshire-Main Campus

Durham, NH · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Zoology/Animal Biology
17 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
18
Optimistic
17
Base Case
16
Pessimistic
Earnings $22,268/yr (-22% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Medium (29,200 openings/yr)
ROI 6.5x earnings multiple (3.2x out-of-state)
Ranked #46 of 55 Zoology/Animal Biology programs

Program Analysis

The data presented reflects a notably challenging career path for zoology graduates from a program like UNH's. While passion for animal biology is strong, the labor market for entry-level roles is incredibly competitive, often leading to positions in animal care, field technician work, or environmental education that don't command high salaries. The higher-earning careers listed, such as those in management or advanced scientific research, nearly always require a master's or Ph.D., along with years of specialized experience and networking. The New England region, while offering some environmental opportunities, lacks the extensive wildlife agencies or major research institutions to absorb a large number of bachelor's graduates in this niche field. If this is your passion, you must be proactive. Prepare to pursue extensive internships, volunteer experiences, and strongly consider combining your zoology studies with a more in-demand skill set like data analysis, geographic information systems (GIS), or even a pre-veterinary track to broaden your options and improve your earning potential post-graduation.

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 $500K $500K $468K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 6.5x 6.5x 6.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.2x 3.2x 3.0x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 18 17 16

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$76,448
Out-of-state: $155,528 (3.2x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$93,044
-22% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,250
12.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$42,300
90% growth from Year 1

About University of New Hampshire-Main Campus

University of New Hampshire-Main Campus has a 87% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, enrolling 11,230 students in Durham, NH.

See all programs and financial aid at University of New Hampshire-Main Campus →

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

Other Majors at University of New Hampshire-Main Campus

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 17/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Zoology at University of New Hampshire-Main Campus?
At 17/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Zoology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Zoology degree from University of New Hampshire-Main Campus?
At $23,250 in median debt, graduates carry 13 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Zoology at University of New Hampshire-Main Campus?
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 New Hampshire-Main Campus a good choice for Zoology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of New Hampshire-Main Campus's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →