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Cheapest Animal Sciences Colleges

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Animal Sciences programs show extreme cost variation, with Eastern New Mexico University charging just $6,199 while some programs exceed $12,000 annually. The most affordable options cluster in agricultural states where livestock production drives local economies. New Mexico leads with two budget-friendly programs, while California State University-Fresno offers strong value at $6,480 despite serving the nation's largest agricultural market. Graduates from the cheapest programs earn between $24,421 and $32,925, with Texas A&M-Kingsville delivering the highest returns at nearly $33,000 annually. The Southwest dominates affordable animal sciences education, reflecting the region's cattle ranching heritage and growing demand for veterinary technicians and livestock specialists. Many low-cost programs maintain close partnerships with regional feedlots, dairy operations, and meat processing facilities, providing students direct pathways into agricultural careers. Acceptance rates vary dramatically, from University of Florida's selective 23% to nearly open enrollment at several state schools.
50
Programs
$6,199 – $16,438
Net Price Range
$28,954
Avg. Program Earnings
58.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

50 Animal Sciences Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $6,199 $6,863 39.8% 27.6%
2 $6,351 $6,381 91.5% 23.4%
3 $6,480 $6,980 54.8% 95.4%
4 $6,747 $8,147 52.2% 78.1%
5 $7,131 $4,656 55.1% 95.6%
6 $7,557 $7,922 26.1%
7 $7,669 $21,290 61.3% 21.1%
8 $8,896 $17,462 59.5% 97.9%
9 $10,204 $9,892 45.6% 96.6%
10 $10,874 $13,120 49.7% 57.2%
11 $10,980 $6,748 55.3% 56.4%
12 $10,991 $7,592 27.4% 97.1%
13 $11,268 $10,026 45.9% 86.5%
14 $11,504 $17,462 56.7% 97.4%
15 $11,580 $7,439 66.7% 55.4%
16 $11,609 $5,392 45.2% 43.1%
17 $11,779 $6,938 59.8% 96.0%
18 $12,209 $10,125 57.6% 62.4%
19 $12,599 $9,506 54.0% 72.5%
20 $12,684 $5,274 47.0% 54.4%
21 $12,869 $9,228 57.3% 93.7%
22 $12,915 $8,319 40.7% 79.1%
23 $12,997 $9,648 61.2% 88.4%
24 $13,085 $7,754 55.1% 69.5%
25 $13,181 $12,186 62.6% 72.8%
26 $13,339 $17,452 65.4% 97.3%
27 $13,782 $8,816 60.9% 73.9%
28 $13,816 $11,180 87.2% 42.6%
29 $13,945 $9,992 83.1% 52.7%
30 $14,041 $11,299 43.2% 76.1%
31 $14,059 $17,472 56.9% 92.2%
32 $14,401 $12,997 61.6% 83.1%
33 $14,532 $9,496 55.7% 86.3%
34 $14,559 $10,024 28.7% 68.4%
35 $14,714 $8,606 60.9% 84.5%
36 $14,754 $8,315 61.5% 85.4%
37 $14,824 $10,181 57.5% 85.6%
38 $14,838 $8,064 63.6% 95.0%
39 $15,152 $10,600 51.7% 89.5%
40 $15,201 $16,004 84.9% 44.8%
41 $15,288 $15,247 85.1% 37.3%
42 $15,501 $9,815 62.9% 75.2%
43 $15,590 $11,505 88.6% 44.6%
44 $15,624 $11,075 85.2% 30.4%
45 $15,960 $13,626 65.9% 86.8%
46 $16,025 $9,228 55.1% 84.6%
47 $16,177 $13,244 56.3% 91.5%
48 $16,334 $10,857 63.7% 95.7%
49 $16,378 $10,234 65.9% 70.6%
50 $16,438 $11,450 56.2% 87.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Eastern New Mexico University the cheapest Animal Sciences option at $6,199?

Eastern New Mexico University benefits from low regional living costs and state funding for agricultural programs. The school maintains partnerships with local ranches and feedlots that reduce program expenses. Students gain hands-on experience through nearby cattle operations while keeping educational costs minimal. The 39.8% graduation rate reflects the program's practical focus on immediate workforce entry.

How do earnings compare between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Texas A&M-Kingsville graduates earn $32,925 despite costing $10,204, while Eastern New Mexico graduates earn $32,569 for just $6,199. University of Florida offers strong earning potential at $29,413 with low costs of $6,351. The data shows that program cost doesn't directly correlate with graduate earnings in Animal Sciences fields.

Is University of Florida's 23% acceptance rate typical for affordable Animal Sciences programs?

University of Florida stands out with its 23% acceptance rate among otherwise accessible programs. Most affordable Animal Sciences programs accept 55-97% of applicants, making Florida highly competitive. The school combines low costs with selective admission and a 91.5% graduation rate. This selectivity reflects Florida's strong agricultural economy and veterinary school connections.

Does geographic location affect Animal Sciences program affordability?

Western and Southwestern states dominate the most affordable options, with programs clustered in agricultural regions. New Mexico, Texas, and California offer multiple low-cost choices due to state support for agricultural education. Eastern schools like University of Connecticut charge higher net prices despite being public institutions. Regional cost of living and state funding priorities create significant geographic price differences.

Where do graduates from these affordable programs typically find employment?

Graduates enter livestock production, veterinary support services, and agricultural research roles concentrated in agricultural regions. Texas programs connect students with the state's $25 billion livestock industry, while California graduates serve the nation's largest dairy market. Average starting salaries range from $24,421 to $32,925, reflecting regional wage variations. Many find positions with feed companies, ranches, and agricultural extension services near their alma mater.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.