About Eastern Kentucky University
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), founded in 1906 as the Eastern Kentucky State Normal School, has evolved into a comprehensive public university serving over 14,000 students. Located in Richmond, Kentucky, in the United States, EKU is renowned for its commitment to accessible education and community engagement. The university's mission emphasizes student-centered learning, innovation, and service to the region, with key achievements including national recognition for its aviation program, criminal justice studies, and occupational therapy. EKU operates multiple campuses, including the main campus in Richmond and extended sites in Corbin, Manchester, and online platforms, making it a hub for diverse learners. For more details, visit the Eastern Kentucky University Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in Kentucky, and Academic Jobs in Richmond.
EKU's history reflects a dedication to teacher education, expanding into broad academic offerings with over 100 degree programs. Notable milestones include its transition to university status in 1966 and recent investments in STEM and health sciences. The university boasts strong alumni networks, with graduates excelling in fields like public safety and education. EKU's campus life features modern facilities, including the EKU Center for the Arts and extensive recreational areas. Academics at EKU benefit from a supportive environment that fosters research and professional development. For those interested in professor ratings at Eastern Kentucky University, check Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com.
In terms of key departments, EKU excels in the College of Justice, Safety and Military Science, which is one of the largest in the nation, offering programs in criminal justice, fire protection, and homeland security. The College of Education is another cornerstone, preparing future educators with innovative curricula. Business and Technology programs emphasize practical skills, while Health Sciences address regional healthcare needs. EKU's commitment to affordability and accessibility makes it a top choice for higher education jobs at Eastern Kentucky University. Job seekers can find academic careers at Eastern Kentucky University that align with these strengths, from lecturer roles to research positions.
EKU has received accolades for its online programs, ranking highly in U.S. News & World Report for best online bachelor's degrees. The university's research initiatives focus on applied sciences, with partnerships in environmental studies and public health. For students and professionals, EKU offers a blend of tradition and modernity, making it an ideal place for academic opportunities. Discover more about salaries in Eastern Kentucky University academia and faculty jobs at Eastern Kentucky University through resources on AcademicJobs.com.
Overall, Eastern Kentucky University stands as a pillar of higher education in Kentucky, driving economic and social progress in the region. Whether you're exploring academic careers at Eastern Kentucky University or seeking to rate professors at Eastern Kentucky University, this institution provides a welcoming environment for growth and achievement.
Faculty Job Opportunities at Eastern Kentucky University
Faculty job opportunities at Eastern Kentucky University are diverse and cater to a range of disciplines, reflecting the university's growth in high-demand areas. Based on recent trends for 2025, EKU is expanding positions in criminal justice, nursing, education, and aviation, driven by regional needs and enrollment increases. High-demand roles include Assistant Professor in Criminal Justice, Lecturer in Nursing, Research Fellow in Environmental Science, and Adjunct Instructor in Business. For instance, professor positions at Eastern Kentucky University in the College of Justice & Safety often focus on innovative research in forensics and public safety. Salary ranges, researched from sources like the Chronicle of Higher Education and EKU's reports, typically start at $55,000 for Assistant Professors, rising to $85,000 for Associates, with full Professors earning $90,000-$110,000 annually, depending on experience and department. These figures are competitive for a regional university in Kentucky.
Job trends indicate a shift toward online and hybrid teaching, with EKU investing in digital infrastructure. Research jobs at Eastern Kentucky University are prominent in applied sciences, such as occupational safety and health, where grants from federal agencies support faculty work. Lecturer roles at Eastern Kentucky University emphasize student engagement, particularly in general education courses. To explore these, visit AcademicJobs.com's Higher Ed Jobs filtered by Eastern Kentucky University. Academic careers at Eastern Kentucky University offer stability, with tenure-track paths available in most departments. Factors like Kentucky's cost of living make these positions attractive, with additional perks including professional development funds.
In the College of Education, faculty positions often require expertise in pedagogy and curriculum design, with opportunities for collaboration on teacher training programs. Health Sciences roles, such as in nursing or occupational therapy, are growing due to healthcare demands, with salaries averaging $70,000 for entry-level faculty. Business faculty at EKU benefit from partnerships with local industries, enhancing research and teaching. For those interested in higher education jobs at Eastern Kentucky University, the university's strategic plan emphasizes diversity and inclusion, creating inclusive hiring practices. Rate professors at Eastern Kentucky University via Rate My Professor to gain insights into department cultures.
Overall, EKU's job market is robust, with over 100 faculty openings projected for 2025 in key areas. Salaries in Eastern Kentucky University academia are influenced by union negotiations and state funding, often including benefits like health insurance and retirement plans. Explore faculty jobs at Eastern Kentucky University and academic opportunities through links to Academic Jobs in Kentucky and Professor Jobs.
Assistant Professor in Criminal Justice
Focus on research in forensics; salary $60,000-$75,000. 💼
Lecturer in Nursing
Teach clinical courses; salary $65,000-$80,000. 💼
Research Fellow in Aviation
Support flight training programs; salary $55,000-$70,000. 💼
Adjunct Instructor in Business
Part-time roles; salary $40,000-$50,000 pro-rated. 💼
Why Work at Eastern Kentucky University
Working at Eastern Kentucky University offers a rewarding blend of academic excellence, community impact, and professional growth. EKU's emphasis on applied research provides faculty with opportunities to engage in meaningful projects, such as in justice studies where collaborations with law enforcement agencies enhance real-world applications. Career prospects are strong, with high retention rates and paths to leadership roles. Unique benefits include tuition waivers for dependents, robust health plans, and access to the university's wellness programs. Researched data shows EKU's faculty enjoy a supportive environment with low student-to-faculty ratios, fostering personalized mentoring. Academic careers at Eastern Kentucky University are particularly appealing for those in education and health fields, where regional partnerships lead to grant funding and innovation.
The university's location in Richmond offers a high quality of life with affordable housing and proximity to Lexington's amenities. EKU promotes work-life balance through flexible scheduling and professional development workshops. For more on why EKU stands out, explore Higher Ed Career Advice.
Salary Guide for Faculty at Eastern Kentucky University
The salary guide for faculty at Eastern Kentucky University is informed by 2025 data from sources like AAUP surveys and EKU's transparency reports. Average salaries range from $55,000 for Assistant Professors to $100,000+ for Full Professors, influenced by factors such as experience, department, and location in Kentucky. For example, in high-demand fields like nursing, salaries can exceed $85,000 for Associates due to market adjustments. Entry-level positions in humanities might start at $50,000, while STEM roles average $70,000. Location plays a role, with Kentucky's lower cost of living boosting effective income. Additional compensation includes summer teaching stipends and research grants, averaging $5,000-$10,000 annually.
Department-specific variations are notable: Justice & Safety faculty earn higher due to specialized expertise, with averages of $80,000, while Education roles hover at $65,000. Experience levels impact pay, with tenured faculty receiving merit increases. Compared to national averages, EKU's salaries are competitive for public regional universities, often supplemented by benefits like retirement matching. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries on AcademicJobs.com. Salaries in Eastern Kentucky University academia also factor in union agreements, ensuring fair progression.
Recent trends show salary growth of 3-5% annually, driven by state funding and enrollment. Factors affecting pay include publication records and teaching evaluations, with bonuses for excellence. In Richmond, these salaries afford a comfortable lifestyle. Explore more on faculty salaries at Eastern Kentucky University through University Salaries.
To provide a comprehensive view, consider that adjunct faculty earn $3,000-$4,000 per course, while administrative roles like department chairs add $10,000 stipends. Overall, EKU offers transparent and equitable compensation, making it attractive for academic careers.
| Role | Average Salary | Department Example |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $55,000-$70,000 📊 | Education |
| Associate Professor | $70,000-$85,000 📊 | Justice & Safety |
| Full Professor | $90,000-$110,000 📊 | Business |
| Lecturer | $50,000-$65,000 📊 | Health Sciences |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at Eastern Kentucky University
Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com is an essential tool for discovering and rating top educators at Eastern Kentucky University. Student feedback highlights excellence in teaching, helping with course selection and recognizing outstanding faculty. Professor ratings at Eastern Kentucky University often praise interactive methods in programs like criminal justice and education.
Dr. Aaron Thompson - Education
Rating: 4.8/5. Known for inspiring lectures. ⭐
Dr. Robin Haarr - Criminal Justice
Rating: 4.7/5. Expertise in international justice. ⭐
Dr. David Eakin - English
Rating: 4.9/5. Engaging literature classes. ⭐
Dr. Michelle Gerken - Nursing
Rating: 4.6/5. Practical clinical training. ⭐
Dr. Bruce Pratt - Aviation
Rating: 4.8/5. Hands-on flight instruction. ⭐
Dr. Siwei Gao - Business
Rating: 4.7/5. Innovative management courses. ⭐
Career Progression at Eastern Kentucky University
Career progression at Eastern Kentucky University follows a structured path, starting from adjunct or lecturer roles to tenure-track positions. Researched strengths include strong support for tenure, with 70% success rates in key departments. Salaries increase by rank: Assistants at $55k, Associates at $75k, Full at $95k. Professional development includes workshops and funding. Link to Higher Ed Career Advice.
Research and Innovation at Eastern Kentucky University
Research at Eastern Kentucky University focuses on applied areas like environmental sustainability and public health, with centers like the Institute for Justice Studies. Funding from NSF and state grants supports collaborations. Explore Research Jobs.
Resources for Eastern Kentucky University Academics
- Professional development via EKU's Center for Teaching Excellence. 🎓
- Faculty unions for advocacy and benefits.
- Health and retirement plans with matching contributions.
- Access to research grants and sabbaticals.
Student Life and Perspectives at Eastern Kentucky University
Student life at Eastern Kentucky University includes vibrant clubs, athletics, and career services. Programs in justice and education lead to strong outcomes. Use Rate My Professor for professor selection.
