Animal Sciences at Northwest Missouri State University

Maryville, MO · Public · Bachelor's Degree
36 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
37
Optimistic
36
Base Case
33
Pessimistic
Earnings $34,876/yr (3% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Large (99,000 openings/yr)
ROI 11.2x earnings multiple (6.8x out-of-state)
Ranked #57 of 81 Animal Sciences programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $450K $454K $432K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.0x 11.2x 10.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.8x 6.8x 6.5x
Probability of Field Employment 46% 42% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 37 36 33

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$40,724
Out-of-state: $66,492 (6.8x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$59,296
-46% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$18,089
6.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$46,665
34% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $34,876 track close to the $33,901 national median for Animal Sciences programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.

With a 11.2x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 4% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Animal Sciences career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $18,089 against $34,876/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #57 ranking among 81 Animal Sciences programs places Northwest Missouri State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About Northwest Missouri State University

Northwest Missouri State University has a 86% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, with a smaller student body of 4,550 in Maryville, MO.

See all programs and financial aid at Northwest Missouri State University →

Top Career Paths

Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers $87,980/yr
Agricultural sciences teachers, postsecondary $86,350/yr
Animal scientists $79,120/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Animal Sciences at Other Schools

Other Majors at Northwest Missouri State University

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 36/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Animal Sciences at Northwest Missouri State University?
At 36/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Animal Sciences programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Animal Sciences at Northwest Missouri State University?
The 42% 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 →