Salaries at K-State

At Kansas State University, located in Manhattan, Kansas, salary expectations for faculty and staff are determined by a variety of factors including role, academic rank, years of experience, and field of expertise. Salaries often vary significantly between disciplines, with STEM fields typically commanding higher compensation due to market demand. The university operates within the framework of public sector employment, and while it strives for transparency, detailed salary bands for specific positions are not always publicly disclosed. However, aggregate data or ranges for certain roles may be accessible through state-level public employee salary databases or university reports, reflecting Kansas State’s commitment to accountability as a public institution.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is $60,000–$80,000 USD annually, depending on the department and research expectations. Entry-level roles may start lower, with potential increases tied to tenure track progression.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is $80,000–$100,000 USD per year. This often reflects mid-career status, with additional compensation possible through research grants or administrative duties.
• Full Professor: Salaries typically range from $100,000–$150,000 USD annually, influenced by seniority, publication record, and leadership roles within the university.
• Department Chair: Compensation generally falls between $120,000–$180,000 USD per year, often including stipends for administrative responsibilities alongside teaching or research duties.
• Administrative Staff (e.g., Academic Advisor): Salaries range from $40,000–$60,000 USD annually, varying based on experience and specific job scope within the university structure.

Salaries at Kansas State University are generally competitive within the context of public universities in the Midwest, though they may lag behind private institutions or those in high-cost living areas. Progression often depends on performance evaluations, tenure achievement, and external funding for research-focused roles. As a public university, compensation is benchmarked against state guidelines, which can limit flexibility but ensure a degree of equity across similar positions. For the most accurate and up-to-date figures, individuals are encouraged to consult official university resources or state salary databases, as specific data may not always be readily available in public forums.