Welcome to the ultimate resource for Detroit College of Law Jobs, where aspiring academics, job seekers, and students can explore a world of opportunities in legal education and research. Located in the vibrant city of East Lansing, Michigan, Detroit College of Law—now known as Michigan State University College of Law after its 1995 affiliation—offers a rich history of excellence in law, fostering innovative thinkers and leaders in fields like international law, indigenous rights, and trial advocacy. Whether you're seeking professor positions Detroit College of Law, lecturer roles Detroit College of Law, or research jobs Detroit College of Law, this page provides in-depth insights into career paths, salary ranges, and academic trends tailored to this esteemed institution. Dive into higher education jobs Detroit College of Law, discover salaries Detroit College of Law academia, and leverage tools like Rate My Professor to rate professors Detroit College of Law and make informed decisions. With a focus on Detroit College of Law academic opportunities, we highlight why this university stands out for faculty jobs Detroit College of Law and academic careers at Detroit College of Law. Start your journey today by exploring job listings and professor ratings to unlock rewarding paths in academia.
About Detroit College of Law
Detroit College of Law, founded in 1891 as the first law school in Detroit, has a storied history of providing rigorous legal education. In 1995, it affiliated with Michigan State University, relocating to East Lansing in 1997 and becoming Michigan State University College of Law. This move enhanced its resources, integrating it into a major research university while preserving its legacy of practical, student-centered learning. The institution's mission emphasizes excellence in legal scholarship, public service, and global engagement, preparing graduates for impactful careers in law. Key achievements include top rankings in trial advocacy and indigenous law programs, with alumni serving in prominent roles in judiciary, government, and private practice. The campus in East Lansing offers state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, a comprehensive law library, and research centers focused on areas like intellectual property and environmental law. For more details, visit the Detroit College of Law Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in Michigan, and Academic Jobs in East Lansing.
The university boasts key departments such as the Indigenous Law and Policy Center, the Geoffrey Fieger Trial Practice Institute, and programs in international and comparative law. These departments drive innovation and attract scholars from around the world. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Detroit College of Law fosters an environment where faculty and students collaborate on groundbreaking research, contributing to legal advancements that address contemporary challenges like climate change and human rights. Its location in East Lansing provides access to Michigan's capital, Lansing, offering unique opportunities for internships and networking in policy and legislation. Whether you're a prospective faculty member or student, Detroit College of Law represents a hub for academic careers at Detroit College of Law, blending tradition with forward-thinking education.
Historically, the college has evolved from its urban roots in Detroit to a suburban campus integrated with MSU's broader academic ecosystem. This affiliation has expanded research funding and interdisciplinary collaborations, such as with MSU's business and engineering schools. Notable milestones include producing over 10,000 alumni who have shaped Michigan's legal landscape, and recent initiatives in online legal education to reach global audiences. For those interested in professor positions Detroit College of Law or higher education jobs Detroit College of Law, the university's emphasis on experiential learning—through clinics and moot courts—makes it an attractive destination. Discover more about its impact through resources like The University Rankings.
Faculty Job Opportunities at Detroit College of Law
Faculty job opportunities at Detroit College of Law are abundant, particularly in high-demand areas like constitutional law, corporate law, and environmental policy. Based on 2025 trends, the university is expanding its faculty in emerging fields such as cybersecurity law and health law, driven by societal needs and research funding. Roles include Assistant Professor positions with starting salaries around $110,000-$140,000, Lecturer roles at $80,000-$110,000, and Research Fellows focusing on grant-funded projects in indigenous rights, averaging $90,000-$120,000. These positions often require a JD or PhD, with preferences for candidates with publication records and teaching experience. The law school's key departments, such as the Trial Advocacy Program and International Law Concentration, frequently seek experts to lead courses and clinics. For instance, faculty in the Indigenous Law and Policy Center contribute to nationally recognized research on tribal sovereignty, while those in trial practice mentor students in competitive moot courts. Job trends indicate a 10-15% growth in legal academia roles in Michigan, with Detroit College of Law leading in hires due to its MSU affiliation. Salaries are competitive, influenced by experience and department; for example, tenured professors in high-impact areas like intellectual property can earn $180,000-$250,000 annually, including benefits like research stipends. Explore these opportunities through Higher Ed Jobs filtered by Detroit College of Law, or check Lecturer Jobs and Professor Jobs. In East Lansing, the cost of living adjusts these figures favorably compared to urban centers. With a focus on diversity hiring, the university encourages applications from underrepresented groups, offering pathways to tenure and leadership. Recent hires have emphasized interdisciplinary expertise, blending law with technology or public policy. For those pursuing academic careers at Detroit College of Law, positions often include opportunities for sabbaticals and collaborations with MSU's broader network. Visit Faculty Jobs to apply.
Additionally, adjunct roles provide flexible entry points, with pay ranging from $5,000-$10,000 per course, ideal for practitioners transitioning to academia. Research jobs Detroit College of Law in centers like the Legal Research Institute offer stipends for projects on global trade law. Trends show increasing demand for online teaching expertise post-pandemic. Salary data from 2025 sources indicate that Detroit College of Law faculty enjoy above-average compensation in the Midwest, with bonuses for publications and grants. Factors like union negotiations and state funding impact these ranges, making it essential to review current listings. For more on faculty jobs Detroit College of Law, see Adjunct Professor Jobs.
Assistant Professor in Constitutional Law 💼
Salary: $110,000-$140,000. Focus on teaching and research in core legal principles.
Lecturer in Trial Advocacy 🎓
Salary: $80,000-$110,000. Lead practical training in courtroom skills.
Research Fellow in Indigenous Law 🔬
Salary: $90,000-$120,000. Contribute to policy and advocacy projects.
Associate Professor in International Law 🌍
Salary: $150,000-$200,000. Engage in global legal studies and collaborations.
Why Work at Detroit College of Law
Working at Detroit College of Law offers unparalleled appeal for those in academic careers at Detroit College of Law, with robust research opportunities funded by MSU's extensive grants, averaging $5 million annually for law-related projects. The university's unique benefits include comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans matching up to 10%, and professional development stipends for conferences. Career prospects are strong, with 90% tenure rates for eligible faculty and pathways to administrative roles like deanships. Its location in East Lansing provides a balanced lifestyle with access to cultural amenities and outdoor activities, while proximity to Lansing offers policy engagement. Notable advantages include interdisciplinary collaborations with MSU departments, enhancing research in areas like bioethics and technology law. Faculty enjoy mentorship programs and sabbaticals every seven years, fostering innovation. Compared to peers, Detroit College of Law stands out for its focus on practical skills, leading to high student satisfaction and alumni success. Explore why it's ideal for professor positions Detroit College of Law via Higher Ed Career Advice.
The rewarding environment emphasizes work-life balance, with flexible scheduling and remote options for some roles. Unique perks include access to MSU's recreational facilities and tuition waivers for family members. Research from 2025 highlights the university's growth in diverse hiring, making it attractive for underrepresented scholars.
Salary Guide for Faculty at Detroit College of Law
The salary guide for faculty at Detroit College of Law reflects competitive compensation in Michigan's higher education landscape. Based on 2025 data from sources like the AAUP and university reports, average salaries range from $80,000 for entry-level lecturers to over $250,000 for distinguished full professors. Factors influencing pay include experience, department (e.g., high-demand areas like intellectual property offer 10-20% premiums), and location adjustments for East Lansing's lower cost of living. Assistant professors typically earn $110,000-$140,000, with bonuses for research grants. Associate professors see $150,000-$200,000, while full professors average $200,000-$280,000, including benefits like housing allowances. Trends show a 5% annual increase due to inflation and funding. Compared to national averages, these figures are strong for public institutions, with additional perks like pension contributions. For detailed breakdowns, visit Professor Salaries and University Salaries. Salaries Detroit College of Law academia also factor in union agreements, providing stability.
Experience plays a key role; mid-career faculty with publications can negotiate higher starts. Department-specific data: Trial advocacy roles average $130,000, while indigenous law experts earn $160,000+. Location in Michigan adds value through state incentives for educators. Overall, these ranges position Detroit College of Law as a top choice for faculty jobs Detroit College of Law.
| Role 📊 | Salary Range 📍 | Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $110,000-$140,000 | Entry-level, research focus |
| Associate Professor | $150,000-$200,000 | Tenure, publications |
| Full Professor | $200,000-$280,000 | Leadership, grants |
| Lecturer | $80,000-$110,000 | Teaching load |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at Detroit College of Law
Discover top educators at Detroit College of Law through Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com, where student ratings highlight excellence in teaching and mentorship. These insights help in choosing courses and recognizing faculty tied to programs like trial advocacy and international law. Ratings emphasize clarity, helpfulness, and engagement, aiding academic decisions.
Prof. Matthew Fletcher ⭐
Department: Indigenous Law. Rating: 4.8/5. Known for expertise in tribal law.
Prof. Kristi Bowman ⭐
Department: Education Law. Rating: 4.7/5. Praised for insightful lectures.
Prof. Bruce Bean ⭐
Department: International Law. Rating: 4.9/5. Excellent in global policy discussions.
Prof. Jennifer Carter-Johnson ⭐
Department: Intellectual Property. Rating: 4.6/5. Innovative teaching methods.
Prof. David Favre ⭐
Department: Animal Law. Rating: 4.8/5. Engaging and knowledgeable.
Prof. Cynthia Lee Starnes ⭐
Department: Family Law. Rating: 4.7/5. Supportive mentor.
Career Progression at Detroit College of Law
Career progression at Detroit College of Law follows a structured path, starting from assistant professor to tenured full professor, with salaries escalating from $110,000 to $250,000+. Tenure-track roles emphasize research output and teaching, with milestones like promotion reviews every 3-5 years. Research funding, averaging $100,000 per grant, supports advancement, particularly in strengths like indigenous law. Professional development includes workshops and mentorship. Link to Higher Ed Career Advice for guidance.
University-specific factors include MSU's resources for interdisciplinary growth, leading to roles in administration.
Research and Innovation at Detroit College of Law
Research at Detroit College of Law focuses on trends like sustainable development law and digital privacy, with centers like the Indigenous Law Program securing $2M+ in funding annually. Collaborations with MSU drive innovations in biotech law. Explore Research Jobs.
Major areas include trial practice and international arbitration, with opportunities for faculty-led projects.
Resources for Detroit College of Law Academics
- Professional development workshops on teaching innovation 💼
- Faculty unions for advocacy and benefits
- Health and retirement plans with MSU perks
- Grant writing support for research funding 🔬
- Access to law library resources
Student Life and Perspectives at Detroit College of Law
Student life at Detroit College of Law includes diverse programs in JD and LLM, with career outcomes in top firms. Use Rate My Professor for professor selection. Resources like clinics and student orgs enhance experiences.
Perspectives highlight supportive community and practical training.