Zoology/Animal Biology at Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
17 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
18
Optimistic
17
Base Case
16
Pessimistic
Earnings $23,988/yr (-16% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Medium (29,200 openings/yr)
ROI 4.7x earnings multiple
Ranked #47 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 $387K $397K $391K
Earnings Multiple 4.6x 4.7x 4.6x
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 (Sticker)
$84,888
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$118,208
-39% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,393
12.2 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

At $23,988 per year, Zoology/Animal Biology graduates from Liberty University earn below the $28,448 national average. Lower costs or geographic factors may offset the earnings gap.

At 4.7x tuition cost in decade earnings, the ROI is moderate. This program pays for itself, but it's not a financial slam-dunk.

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 a 1.0x debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio, loan repayment extends well beyond graduation. Financial aid and income-driven plans become important considerations.

A #47 ranking among 55 Zoology/Animal Biology programs places Liberty University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About Liberty University

With 99% of applicants admitted, Liberty University prioritizes broad access, one of the larger campuses at 50,059 students in Lynchburg, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at Liberty University →

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 Liberty University

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 17/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Zoology/Animal Biology at Liberty University?
At 17/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Zoology/Animal Biology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Zoology/Animal Biology degree from Liberty University?
At $24,393 in median debt, graduates carry 12 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/Animal Biology at Liberty University?
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 Liberty University a good choice for Zoology/Animal Biology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Liberty University'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 →