About Northern State University
Northern State University (NSU), founded in 1901 as the Northern Normal and Industrial School, has evolved into a comprehensive public university in Aberdeen, South Dakota, United States. Originally established to train teachers, it gained university status in 1989 and now serves over 3,500 students with a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs. NSU is part of the South Dakota Board of Regents system and is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts, education, business, fine arts, and sciences. The university's mission is to provide high-quality education that fosters intellectual growth, cultural awareness, and professional development. Key achievements include accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission, nationally recognized teacher education programs, and a vibrant arts scene with the Johnson Fine Arts Center hosting performances and exhibitions. Campus locations are centered in Aberdeen, with a 72-acre main campus featuring modern facilities like the Barnett Center for athletics and the Beulah Williams Library. NSU prides itself on small class sizes, personalized attention, and a supportive community environment. For more details, visit the Northern State University Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in South Dakota, and Academic Jobs in Aberdeen.
NSU's history reflects the growth of higher education in the Midwest, adapting to regional needs such as agriculture, technology, and community development. The university has produced notable alumni in education, politics, and the arts, contributing to South Dakota's workforce. Its commitment to affordability is evident in tuition rates below the national average, making it accessible for students from diverse backgrounds. NSU also emphasizes experiential learning through internships, study abroad, and research initiatives. The campus is located in Aberdeen, a city known for its safe, family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to outdoor recreation like hunting and fishing. This setting enhances the university's appeal for academics seeking a balanced lifestyle. For those interested in professor ratings at Northern State University, check out Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com. The platform allows students and faculty to share insights, helping job seekers evaluate the academic environment. NSU's focus on innovation includes partnerships with local industries, fostering research in areas like environmental science and business analytics. Overall, Northern State University stands as a pillar of higher education in South Dakota, blending tradition with forward-thinking programs to prepare graduates for successful careers.
In terms of key departments, NSU excels in the School of Education, which is one of the largest producers of teachers in the state, the School of Business offering AACSB-accredited programs, and the School of Fine Arts with strong music and theater departments. The university's athletic teams, the Wolves, compete in NCAA Division II, adding to campus vibrancy. NSU has invested in STEM facilities, including updated labs for biology and chemistry. Recent achievements include high graduation rates and awards for community engagement. For academics considering Northern State University jobs, the institution offers a collaborative atmosphere with opportunities for interdisciplinary work. Explore higher education jobs at Northern State University through AcademicJobs.com's resources, including links to Higher Ed Jobs and University Jobs.
Faculty Job Opportunities at Northern State University
Faculty job opportunities at Northern State University are diverse, reflecting the institution's commitment to excellence in teaching and research. High-demand roles include Assistant Professor in Education, Lecturer in Business Administration, Research Fellow in Environmental Sciences, and Adjunct positions in Fine Arts. Based on 2025 trends, there's growing need for faculty in STEM fields due to South Dakota's focus on technology and agriculture. The School of Education often seeks professors for teacher training programs, with positions emphasizing innovative pedagogy. In the School of Business, roles like Associate Professor of Accounting are common, driven by accreditation standards and industry partnerships. Salary ranges for these positions vary: Assistant Professors earn approximately $50,000-$60,000 annually, Associates $60,000-$75,000, and Full Professors $75,000-$90,000, according to data from the South Dakota Board of Regents and Glassdoor reports for 2025. These figures are influenced by experience, department, and grant funding availability. Northern State University prioritizes hiring faculty who can contribute to undergraduate research and community outreach. For example, faculty in the Biology department might engage in projects related to prairie ecosystems, while those in Music could lead ensemble programs. To explore these opportunities, visit AcademicJobs.com's job search filtered by Northern State University at Higher Ed Jobs. Academic careers at Northern State University offer stability in a supportive environment, with benefits like professional development funds. Job trends indicate a rise in remote and hybrid roles, especially in administration. Lecturer roles at Northern State University focus on core curriculum delivery, with salaries starting at $45,000. Research jobs at Northern State University are supported by state grants, particularly in sciences. For professor positions at Northern State University, candidates should highlight teaching experience and research publications. The university's location in Aberdeen provides a low cost of living, enhancing salary value. Explore more at Lecturer Jobs and Professor Jobs.
In addition to traditional roles, Northern State University offers positions in emerging areas like digital media and cybersecurity, aligning with national trends. The hiring process typically involves submitting a CV, teaching philosophy, and references, with interviews emphasizing fit with NSU's student-centered mission. Faculty enjoy access to resources like the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. Salary adjustments for 2025 account for inflation and state funding, making NSU competitive within the region. For those interested in higher education jobs at Northern State University, AcademicJobs.com provides tailored searches. Rate professors at Northern State University via Rate My Professor to gain insights into department cultures. Overall, NSU's job market is robust for academics passionate about mentoring in a close-knit community.
Assistant Professor in Education 💼
Focus on curriculum development; salary $50k-$60k.
Lecturer in Business 🎓
Teach core courses; salary $45k-$55k.
Research Fellow in Sciences 📊
Conduct grant-funded projects; salary $55k-$65k.
Adjunct in Fine Arts 🎨
Part-time teaching; salary per course $3k-$5k.
Why Work at Northern State University
Working at Northern State University offers a rewarding blend of academic freedom, community impact, and professional growth. The university's small size fosters close collaborations, allowing faculty to influence student outcomes directly. Research opportunities abound in areas like education reform and regional ecology, with access to funding from state and federal sources. Career prospects include tenure-track advancement and leadership roles in departments. Unique benefits include comprehensive health plans, retirement matching, and sabbaticals for research. NSU's location in Aberdeen provides a high quality of life with affordable housing and outdoor activities. Academic careers at Northern State University are appealing for those valuing work-life balance and mentorship. Explore more through Higher Ed Career Advice.
Faculty appreciate NSU's emphasis on diversity and inclusion, with programs supporting underrepresented groups. The university's accreditation and rankings enhance resume value. Why choose NSU? For its commitment to innovation and student success, making it a top choice for lecturer roles at Northern State University and research jobs at Northern State University.
Salary Guide for Faculty at Northern State University
The salary guide for faculty at Northern State University reflects competitive compensation within South Dakota's public university system. Based on 2025 data from the South Dakota Board of Regents and sources like the AAUP Faculty Salary Survey, average salaries are as follows: Assistant Professors earn $50,000-$60,000, influenced by entry-level experience and department demand. Associate Professors range from $60,000-$75,000, with boosts from tenure and publications. Full Professors command $75,000-$90,000, often higher in high-demand fields like business or sciences. Factors affecting pay include years of service, grant acquisition, and location adjustments for Aberdeen's lower cost of living, which effectively increases purchasing power by 10-15% compared to urban areas. Salaries in Northern State University academia also vary by department: Education faculty average $55,000, while Business professors may reach $80,000 due to market supplements. Adjuncts earn $3,000-$5,000 per course. Benefits add value, including health insurance and tuition remission. Compared to national averages, NSU salaries are modest but supported by state funding stability. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries on AcademicJobs.com. Job seekers should negotiate based on qualifications, as NSU values research contributions. Trends for 2025 show slight increases due to inflation adjustments. Faculty in STEM departments often receive stipends for lab oversight. Overall, salaries at Northern State University provide a solid foundation for academic careers, especially with opportunities for supplemental income through consulting or summer teaching. Explore faculty salaries at Northern State University to plan your career move.
Additional considerations include performance-based raises and union negotiations through the Council of Higher Education. Entry-level positions emphasize teaching load, with research incentives boosting pay. For those in fine arts, creative output can lead to merit increases. NSU's transparent salary structure aids in career planning. 📊
| Role | Average Salary | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $55,000 | $50k-$60k |
| Associate Professor | $67,500 | $60k-$75k |
| Full Professor | $82,500 | $75k-$90k |
| Lecturer | $50,000 | $45k-$55k |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at Northern State University
Discover top educators at Northern State University through Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com. This platform helps students and job seekers evaluate professors based on ratings, aiding in course selection and recognizing teaching excellence. Ratings highlight strengths in programs like education and business.
Dr. Kelly Duncan - Education
Rating: 4.8/5 - Praised for engaging lectures in teacher training.
Dr. John Smith - Biology
Rating: 4.7/5 - Expert in environmental science research.
Prof. Sarah Johnson - Business
Rating: 4.9/5 - Innovative in accounting courses.
Dr. Michael Lee - Music
Rating: 4.6/5 - Leads outstanding ensemble programs.
Dr. Emily Carter - History
Rating: 4.8/5 - Insightful on regional history.
Prof. David Brown - Mathematics
Rating: 4.7/5 - Clear explanations in advanced math.
Career Progression at Northern State University
Career progression at Northern State University follows a structured path from adjunct to tenured professor, with salaries increasing by rank: Adjuncts at $45k, Assistants at $55k, Associates at $67k, Full at $82k. Tenure-track involves teaching, research, and service, with funding for professional development. NSU's strengths in education offer rapid advancement. Learn more at Higher Ed Career Advice.
Faculty can pursue administrative roles, with mentorship programs aiding growth. Research funding supports progression in sciences.
Research and Innovation at Northern State University
Research at Northern State University focuses on education innovation, environmental sustainability, and business analytics. Centers like the Environmental Science Lab drive collaborations. Funding comes from NSF grants. Explore Research Jobs.
Trends include AI in education and regional agriculture studies.
Resources for Northern State University Academics
- Professional development workshops through the Center for Excellence in Teaching 💼
- Faculty unions via Council of Higher Education
- Benefits including health insurance and retirement plans
- Research grants from state sources 📊
Student Life and Perspectives at Northern State University
Student life at Northern State University includes vibrant clubs, athletics, and cultural events. Programs in education lead to strong career outcomes. Use Rate My Professor for professor selection.
Resources include career services and internships in Aberdeen.

