Salaries at Cornish

At Cornish College of the Arts, located in Seattle, Washington, salary expectations for faculty and staff are typically determined by factors such as role, experience, academic rank, and department. As a private institution focused on arts education, compensation often reflects the specialized nature of the field, with considerations for artistic expertise and industry experience. While Cornish College of the Arts does not publicly publish transparent salary bands or detailed compensation data on its official website, salaries are generally aligned with industry standards for arts-focused higher education institutions in the region. Prospective employees are encouraged to discuss specific salary details during the hiring process.

• Full-Time Faculty (Professor/Associate Professor): Typical salary range is approximately $60,000–$80,000 USD per year, depending on rank and years of experience. Seniority and notable achievements in the arts may lead to higher compensation.
• Adjunct Faculty: Part-time or adjunct roles often earn between $3,000–$5,000 USD per course, with variations based on course load and department needs. These positions typically do not include benefits or long-term contracts.
• Department Chair: Salaries generally range from $75,000–$95,000 USD annually, reflecting additional administrative responsibilities. Bonuses or stipends may be available for leadership roles.
• Administrative Staff (e.g., Admissions Counselor): Compensation typically falls between $40,000–$55,000 USD per year, influenced by experience and specific job functions within the college.

Salaries at Cornish College of the Arts appear to be competitive within the niche of arts education, though they may not match those at larger public universities or research institutions. Progression in compensation often depends on tenure, professional accomplishments, and contributions to the college’s mission of fostering creativity. As a private institution, Cornish does not adhere to public sector salary benchmarking, and thus, compensation structures remain more flexible and individualized. For those considering a career at Cornish, it’s worth noting that the arts education sector often prioritizes passion and portfolio over purely financial incentives, which can influence overall salary expectations.