Salaries at COA

At College of the Atlantic (COA), located in Bar Harbor, Maine, salary expectations for faculty and staff are generally determined by factors such as role, academic rank, years of experience, and field of expertise. As a small liberal arts college with a focus on interdisciplinary education, COA tailors compensation to reflect individual contributions and institutional needs. However, the university does not publicly disclose detailed salary bands or specific compensation data for its employees. Information regarding salaries is often shared internally or during the hiring process, and prospective employees are encouraged to discuss compensation directly with the human resources department.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is approximately $50,000–$60,000 USD per year, depending on experience and academic discipline. Entry-level roles may start at the lower end, with potential increases based on teaching evaluations and research contributions.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is around $60,000–$75,000 USD annually. Mid-career faculty often see salary growth tied to tenure status and additional responsibilities such as advising or committee work.
• Full Professor: Salaries typically fall between $75,000–$90,000 USD per year. Seniority, leadership roles, and external research funding can influence higher compensation at this level.
• Administrative Staff (e.g., Admissions Counselor): Salaries generally range from $40,000–$55,000 USD annually, varying based on role complexity and years of service.
• Dean or Senior Administrator: Compensation often ranges from $80,000–$110,000 USD per year, reflecting significant leadership responsibilities and institutional impact.

Salaries at College of the Atlantic appear to be competitive within the context of small liberal arts colleges in the United States, though they may not match those at larger research universities. Progression in compensation often depends on tenure, performance reviews, and institutional budget constraints. As a private institution, COA is not bound by public sector salary benchmarks, which can result in more flexibility but less transparency compared to state-funded universities. For those considering a career at COA, it’s worth noting that the college prioritizes a collaborative work environment and unique educational mission, which may appeal to candidates beyond monetary considerations.