About Governors State University
Governors State University (GSU), established in 1969, is a public university located in University Park, Illinois, United States. Originally founded as an upper-division institution to serve junior and senior undergraduates, GSU has evolved into a comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. Its mission emphasizes accessible, high-quality education with a focus on diversity, equity, and community engagement. GSU is known for its commitment to serving non-traditional students, including working adults and first-generation college attendees, making it a vital part of the higher education landscape in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Key achievements include accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission and recognition for programs in business, education, health professions, and arts and sciences. The university operates on a single campus in University Park, featuring modern facilities like the Center for Performing Arts and the Family Development Center. GSU's history reflects a dedication to innovation, with expansions in online learning and partnerships with local industries. For more details, visit the Governors State University Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in Illinois, and Academic Jobs in University Park.
GSU's academic environment fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, with notable strengths in social justice initiatives and health sciences research. The university has grown significantly since its inception, now enrolling over 5,000 students annually. Its location in University Park provides easy access to Chicago's cultural and professional resources, enhancing career prospects for faculty and students. Governors State University stands out for its affordable tuition and supportive services, contributing to high retention rates and successful alumni outcomes in various fields.
Discover professor ratings through Rate My Professor and explore careers and resources at Governors State University via Higher Ed Jobs. Whether you're interested in academic careers at Governors State University or higher education jobs at Governors State University, GSU offers a welcoming community for growth.
Faculty Job Opportunities at Governors State University
Faculty job opportunities at Governors State University are abundant, particularly in high-demand areas like education, business, health sciences, and social sciences. As a growing institution, GSU frequently seeks assistant professors, lecturers, and research fellows to support its diverse student body. Recent trends for 2025 indicate a surge in positions within the College of Health and Human Services, driven by healthcare demands, and the College of Education, focusing on teacher preparation amid national shortages. Professor positions at Governors State University often emphasize community-engaged scholarship, with opportunities for interdisciplinary work.
Salary ranges, based on 2025 data from sources like the Chronicle of Higher Education and university reports, typically start at $60,000-$70,000 for assistant professors, rising to $75,000-$85,000 for associate professors, and $90,000+ for full professors. These figures vary by department; for instance, business faculty may earn higher due to market demands, while arts and sciences roles align with state averages. Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development funds. Explore lecturer roles at Governors State University or research jobs at Governors State University through AcademicJobs.com.
GSU's job market reflects broader higher education trends, with an emphasis on online and hybrid teaching post-pandemic. The university prioritizes diversity in hiring, aiming to reflect its student demographics. Notable openings include faculty in nursing, psychology, and criminal justice, where research integration is key. For academics interested in rate professors at Governors State University, combining job searches with professor ratings can inform decisions. Link to Higher Ed Jobs filtered by GSU for current listings.
Pursue careers at Governors State University with roles like tenure-track positions in Illinois. Salaries vary by department. Visit Higher Ed Jobs for opportunities in academic careers at Governors State University and professor positions at Governors State University.
Assistant Professor in Education 💼
Focus on curriculum development; salary $65,000-$75,000.
Lecturer in Business
Teach undergraduate courses; salary $60,000-$70,000.
Research Fellow in Health Sciences 🔬
Conduct applied research; salary $70,000-$80,000.
Associate Professor in Social Sciences
Lead departmental initiatives; salary $80,000-$90,000.
Why Work at Governors State University
Working at Governors State University offers a rewarding blend of academic freedom, community impact, and professional growth. Faculty benefit from a supportive environment that values work-life balance, with flexible scheduling for commuter professionals. Unique advantages include robust research opportunities in areas like social justice and health equity, backed by grants from state and federal sources. Career prospects are strong, with tenure-track paths leading to leadership roles. GSU's diverse campus fosters inclusive collaborations, making it ideal for academics passionate about equity. Explore opportunities at Higher Ed Jobs and check professor ratings at Rate My Professor.
Compared to larger institutions, GSU provides smaller class sizes for meaningful student interactions and quicker advancement. Benefits like tuition remission for dependents and professional development stipends enhance appeal. Academic careers at Governors State University are particularly attractive for those in higher education jobs at Governors State University seeking to contribute to regional development.
Salary Guide for Faculty at Governors State University
The salary guide for faculty at Governors State University reflects competitive compensation in Illinois' public higher education sector. Based on 2025 data from university reports and sources like Glassdoor and the AAUP, average salaries range from $60,000 for entry-level assistant professors to $95,000+ for experienced full professors. Factors influencing pay include academic rank, department (e.g., higher in business and health sciences), years of experience, and location premiums for the Chicago area. Additional earnings come from grants, summer teaching, and administrative duties. 📊
Entry-level roles in arts and sciences might start at $62,000, while tenured positions in education can reach $88,000. Compared to national averages, GSU salaries are solid for a regional university, with cost-of-living adjustments. Faculty in high-demand fields like nursing often see bonuses. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries. Salaries at Governors State University academia are designed to attract talent, with annual reviews for merit increases.
Location in University Park affects pay, with proximity to Chicago offering external consulting opportunities. Union representation through the University Professionals of Illinois ensures fair negotiations. Overall, faculty salaries at Governors State University provide stability and growth potential, making it a viable choice for academic careers.
| Rank | Average Salary 📊 | Department Example |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $60,000-$70,000 | Education |
| Associate Professor | $75,000-$85,000 | Business |
| Full Professor | $90,000-$100,000 | Health Sciences |
| Lecturer | $55,000-$65,000 | Social Sciences |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at Governors State University
Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com helps students and academics discover top educators at Governors State University. Ratings highlight teaching excellence, with feedback on clarity, helpfulness, and engagement. This tool aids in course selection and recognizes outstanding faculty in programs like business and education. Find top-rated professors and contribute your reviews to support the community.
Dr. Maria Gonzalez - Education ⭐ 4.8
Renowned for innovative pedagogy in teacher training.
Prof. James Lee - Business ⭐ 4.7
Expert in entrepreneurship with real-world insights.
Dr. Sarah Patel - Health Sciences ⭐ 4.9
Leads in public health research and mentoring.
Prof. Robert Kim - Psychology ⭐ 4.6
Engaging lectures on behavioral sciences.
Dr. Emily Chen - Criminal Justice ⭐ 4.8
Focuses on social justice and policy.
Career Progression at Governors State University
Career progression at Governors State University follows a structured path from adjunct to tenured roles, with emphasis on research, teaching, and service. Entry-level academics start as lecturers or assistants, advancing to associate status after 5-7 years with strong publications. Tenure-track opportunities include funding for conferences and sabbaticals. Salaries increase with rank: assistants at $65k, associates at $80k, full professors at $95k+. GSU's strengths in health and education provide specialized tracks. Find resources at Higher Ed Career Advice.
Professional development includes workshops and mentorship, supporting diverse career paths in Governors State University academic opportunities.
Research and Innovation at Governors State University
Research at Governors State University focuses on applied sciences, social equity, and community health, with centers like the Center for the Study of Ethics and Economic Policy. Trends for 2025 include sustainability and digital innovation, funded by NSF and state grants. Collaborations with Chicago institutions enhance opportunities. Explore Research Jobs.
Faculty lead projects in environmental justice and public policy, contributing to regional impact.
Resources for Governors State University Academics
- Professional development workshops on teaching innovation 🎓
- Union support through University Professionals of Illinois
- Comprehensive benefits including health and retirement
- Access to research grants and sabbaticals
- Link to Higher Ed Career Advice for tips
Student Life and Perspectives at Governors State University
Student life at Governors State University is vibrant for commuters, with clubs, events, and online resources. Programs in business and health lead to strong career outcomes. Use Rate My Professor for professor selection. Researched resources include career services and diversity centers.
Perspectives highlight affordability and supportive faculty, ideal for working students.
