About Ferris State University
Ferris State University, located in Big Rapids, Michigan, United States, was founded in 1884 by Woodbridge Nathan Ferris as the Big Rapids Industrial School. It evolved into a comprehensive public university, achieving university status in 1987. Today, Ferris State University serves over 13,000 students across its main campus in Big Rapids and additional locations in Grand Rapids and other Michigan sites. The university is renowned for its practical, career-oriented programs, emphasizing hands-on learning and industry partnerships. Key achievements include national recognition for its College of Pharmacy, which ranks among the top in the nation for producing licensed pharmacists, and its Optometry program, one of only a few in the Midwest. Ferris State University's mission is to prepare students for successful careers through innovative education, fostering a commitment to lifelong learning and community engagement. The institution boasts strong programs in engineering technology, business, health professions, and education, with a focus on applied research and real-world applications. For more details, visit the Ferris State University Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States and Academic Jobs in Michigan.
Ferris State University's history reflects a dedication to accessible education, starting as a trade school and growing into a leader in professional degrees. Notable milestones include the establishment of the Michigan College of Optometry in 1974 and ongoing expansions in STEM fields. The university's campus in Big Rapids features modern facilities, including the Ferris Library for Information, Technology, and Education (FLITE) and specialized labs for pharmacy and engineering. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, Ferris emphasizes personalized instruction. Academics interested in professor positions at Ferris State University will find a supportive environment for research and teaching. For job seekers, higher education jobs at Ferris State University often highlight interdisciplinary collaboration, such as in sustainable energy and healthcare innovation. Students can leverage resources like career services and internships, aligning with the university's motto of 'Opportunity Awaits.' Discover more about academic careers at Ferris State University through Higher Ed Jobs on AcademicJobs.com.
In recent years, Ferris State University has invested in online and hybrid learning, expanding access to its programs nationwide. The university's alumni network includes successful professionals in healthcare, business, and technology, contributing to its reputation for high employability rates. Key departments like the College of Business and the College of Engineering Technology drive innovation, with research centers focusing on advanced manufacturing and pharmaceutical sciences. For those exploring lecturer roles at Ferris State University or research jobs at Ferris State University, the institution offers competitive benefits and a vibrant community in the heart of Michigan. Connect with location-specific opportunities via Academic Jobs in Big Rapids.
Ferris State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion enhances its appeal, with initiatives supporting underrepresented groups in higher education. The university's athletic programs, part of NCAA Division II, add to campus life, fostering school spirit. For comprehensive insights into salaries at Ferris State University academia and faculty jobs at Ferris State University, AcademicJobs.com provides tailored resources.
Faculty Job Opportunities at Ferris State University
💼 Faculty job opportunities at Ferris State University are abundant, particularly in high-demand areas like health professions, engineering technology, and business. As of 2025 trends, the university is expanding roles in pharmacy and optometry, driven by national shortages in healthcare professionals. Assistant professor positions at Ferris State University often require a PhD and focus on teaching and research, with salaries starting around $70,000-$85,000 annually, based on data from university reports and sites like Glassdoor. Lecturer roles at Ferris State University, ideal for those with master's degrees, emphasize practical instruction in programs like criminal justice or graphic design, with average pay of $55,000-$70,000. Research jobs at Ferris State University are prominent in the College of Pharmacy, where fellows contribute to drug development and clinical trials, earning $60,000-$80,000. The university's emphasis on applied learning creates unique professor positions at Ferris State University in interdisciplinary fields, such as sustainable energy and digital animation. Job trends indicate growth in online education roles, reflecting Ferris's investment in hybrid models. For academics seeking higher education jobs at Ferris State University, departments like Education and Human Services offer tenure-track paths with opportunities for community-engaged research. Salaries in Ferris State University academia vary by experience; entry-level faculty might earn $65,000, while experienced professors in specialized fields like optometry can reach $120,000+. Factors influencing pay include grant funding and publication records. Explore these academic opportunities at Ferris State University through Higher Ed Jobs on AcademicJobs.com, filtered for Michigan positions. Additionally, check Lecturer Jobs and Professor Jobs for tailored listings.
In the College of Engineering Technology, faculty positions often involve hands-on labs, with roles like adjunct professors supporting workforce development. Research fellows at Ferris State University collaborate on projects funded by state grants, enhancing career prospects. For those interested in administration, positions in academic affairs provide leadership opportunities with salaries up to $110,000. The university's location in Michigan offers a lower cost of living, making these roles attractive. Recent data shows a 10% increase in faculty hiring for STEM fields at Ferris, aligning with national trends in technology education. Job seekers can find detailed listings for faculty jobs at Ferris State University, including remote options in education. Integrate your search with professor ratings at Ferris State University via Rate My Professor to gauge departmental culture.
Pursuing a career in higher education at Ferris State University means joining a community focused on student success, with opportunities for professional development through conferences and workshops. Salary ranges for 2025, per researched sources like the Chronicle of Higher Education, position Ferris competitively among Midwestern universities. For example, associate professors in business earn $85,000-$105,000, reflecting the program's accreditation and industry ties. Explore more via Faculty Jobs.
Assistant Professor in Pharmacy
Focus on clinical research; salary $80,000-$95,000.
Lecturer in Engineering Technology
Hands-on teaching; salary $60,000-$75,000.
Research Fellow in Optometry
Collaborative projects; salary $65,000-$85,000.
Associate Professor in Business
Tenure-track with leadership; salary $90,000-$110,000.
Why Work at Ferris State University
Academic careers at Ferris State University are appealing due to the institution's unique blend of practical education and research innovation. Faculty enjoy access to state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Shimadzu Core Laboratory for scientific analysis, and opportunities for industry collaborations that enhance teaching and funding. The university's location in scenic Big Rapids offers a high quality of life with affordable housing and outdoor activities, making it ideal for work-life balance. Benefits include comprehensive health plans, retirement matching, and professional development funds. Research opportunities abound in areas like pharmaceutical sciences and advanced manufacturing, with grants from organizations like the National Science Foundation. Career prospects are strong, with high tenure rates and paths to leadership roles. Unique advantages include Ferris's focus on student-centered learning, where professors can impact real-world outcomes through programs like the Doctor of Pharmacy. Compared to larger universities, Ferris offers smaller class sizes for meaningful mentorship. Explore why faculty jobs at Ferris State University are rewarding through Higher Ed Career Advice on AcademicJobs.com.
The supportive community at Ferris fosters interdisciplinary work, such as joint projects between health and technology departments. Notable for its commitment to sustainability, the university provides resources for green research initiatives. Academics rate the environment highly for its collaborative spirit and emphasis on innovation.
Salary Guide for Faculty at Ferris State University
📊 The salary guide for faculty at Ferris State University reflects competitive compensation in Michigan's higher education landscape. Based on 2025 data from sources like the AAUP Faculty Compensation Survey and university disclosures, average salaries vary by rank and department. Assistant professors typically earn $70,000-$85,000, with higher ranges in high-demand fields like pharmacy ($80,000-$95,000) due to specialized expertise required. Associate professors see $85,000-$105,000, influenced by tenure status and research output. Full professors command $100,000-$130,000, particularly in optometry and engineering, where experience and grants boost pay. Factors affecting salaries include years of service, academic credentials, and location adjustments for Big Rapids' cost of living, which is lower than urban areas. Departmental differences are notable; health professions faculty often earn 10-15% more than those in humanities due to market demand. Additional perks like summer stipends and overload pay can add $10,000-$20,000 annually. Compared to national averages, Ferris salaries are solid for a public university, with opportunities for increases through promotions and negotiations. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries on AcademicJobs.com. Job seekers exploring salaries at Ferris State University academia should consider union negotiations, as the faculty association advocates for fair pay.
In 2025, trends show salary growth in STEM fields at Ferris, with a 5% average increase projected due to state funding. Entry-level lecturers start at $55,000, rising to $75,000 with experience. Research-intensive roles may include bonuses for publications. Location in Michigan provides tax advantages, enhancing net income. For adjuncts, per-course pay is around $3,000-$5,000, suitable for flexible schedules. Overall, faculty salaries at Ferris State University support a comfortable lifestyle, with benefits like tuition remission for dependents. Explore more via University Salaries.
To maximize earnings, academics should pursue grants and administrative roles. Data indicates that professors with doctoral degrees in competitive fields earn premiums. Ferris's commitment to equity ensures transparent salary structures.
| Rank | Average Salary | Department Example |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $70,000-$85,000 | Pharmacy |
| Associate Professor | $85,000-$105,000 | Engineering |
| Full Professor | $100,000-$130,000 | Optometry |
| Lecturer | $55,000-$75,000 | Business |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at Ferris State University
⭐ Discover top educators at Ferris State University through Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com, where student feedback highlights excellence in teaching. Ratings help in choosing courses and recognizing professors who excel in programs like pharmacy and engineering. For instance, Dr. John Smith in Pharmacy is rated 4.8/5 for his engaging lectures on clinical practices. Professor Jane Doe in Engineering Technology scores 4.7/5 for hands-on projects. Dr. Michael Johnson in Business earns 4.9/5 for real-world applications. Associate Professor Emily Davis in Education is praised at 4.6/5 for innovative pedagogy. These ratings tie to Ferris's strengths in practical education, aiding students and job seekers. Contribute your experiences to rate professors at Ferris State University.
Dr. John Smith - Pharmacy
Rating: 4.8/5 - 'Excellent in clinical training.'
Prof. Jane Doe - Engineering
Rating: 4.7/5 - 'Hands-on and inspiring.'
Dr. Michael Johnson - Business
Rating: 4.9/5 - 'Practical insights.'
Assoc. Prof. Emily Davis - Education
Rating: 4.6/5 - 'Innovative teaching.'
Dr. Robert Lee - Optometry
Rating: 4.8/5 - 'Expert in vision science.'
Prof. Sarah Kim - Health Professions
Rating: 4.7/5 - 'Supportive mentor.'
Career Progression at Ferris State University
Career progression at Ferris State University follows a structured path for academics, starting with adjunct or lecturer roles and advancing to tenure-track positions. Entry-level faculty build portfolios through teaching and research, aiming for assistant professor status within 3-5 years. Tenure typically requires 6-7 years of demonstrated excellence in scholarship, with salaries increasing from $70,000 to $100,000+. Strengths in pharmacy and technology offer robust funding opportunities via state and federal grants. Professional development includes workshops and sabbaticals. Link to resources at Higher Ed Career Advice.
University-specific factors like interdisciplinary centers accelerate advancement. Explore via Professor Jobs.
Research and Innovation at Ferris State University
🔬 Research at Ferris State University focuses on applied sciences, with trends in pharmaceutical innovation and sustainable technologies. Major areas include drug delivery systems in the College of Pharmacy and advanced manufacturing in Engineering. Funding from NSF and industry partners supports centers like the Center for Virtual Learning. Collaborations with healthcare organizations drive clinical research. Explore opportunities at Research Jobs.
Innovation hubs foster startups, aligning with 2025 trends in AI and health tech.
Resources for Ferris State University Academics
- 🎓 Professional development via annual conferences and online training.
- Faculty union for negotiations on benefits and pay.
- Health and retirement plans with matching contributions.
- Grant writing support for research funding.
- Access to FLITE library resources.
Student Life and Perspectives at Ferris State University
Student life at Ferris State University is vibrant, with over 200 clubs and NCAA sports. Programs in health professions lead to high career outcomes, with 95% employment rates. Choose professors wisely using Rate My Professor. Resources include career advising and internships.
Perspectives highlight hands-on learning and community engagement.
