About Missouri Western State University
Missouri Western State University, located in Saint Joseph, Missouri, United States, is a public institution founded in 1915 as St. Joseph Junior College. It evolved into a four-year college in 1969 and achieved university status in 2005. Known for its emphasis on applied learning, the university integrates practical experiences into its curriculum, preparing students for real-world challenges. With a mission to provide accessible, high-quality education, Missouri Western State University serves over 5,000 students across more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. Key achievements include strong accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and recognition for its nursing and business programs. The campus spans 723 acres, featuring modern facilities like the Remington Hall for sciences and the Potter Hall for performing arts. Missouri Western State University is committed to community engagement, with initiatives like the Center for Service and partnerships with local industries. For more details, visit the Missouri Western State University Website. Explore academic jobs in the region through Academic Jobs in United States and Academic Jobs in Missouri.
The university's history reflects a dedication to growth and innovation, transitioning from a junior college to a comprehensive state university. Notable milestones include the establishment of the Craig School of Business and the Steven L. Craig Field for athletics. Missouri Western State University prides itself on small class sizes, averaging 19 students, which fosters personalized learning. Its location in Saint Joseph offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, with proximity to the Missouri River. The institution has received awards for its sustainability efforts and student support services. Academics and professionals can find enriching opportunities here, from teaching to research. For career insights, check Higher Ed Jobs filtered by Missouri Western State University.
Missouri Western State University's core values include excellence, integrity, and community. It hosts diverse departments such as the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Nursing and Health Professions, and the College of Business and Professional Studies. The university has produced notable alumni in fields like education, business, and healthcare. With a focus on experiential learning, students participate in internships, research projects, and service-learning. The campus life is vibrant, with over 100 student organizations and NCAA Division II athletics as the Griffons. For those interested in academic careers at Missouri Western State University, the institution offers a supportive environment for faculty development and collaboration.
In recent years, Missouri Western State University has expanded its online offerings and invested in technology-enhanced classrooms. Its strategic plan emphasizes student retention, diversity, and economic impact on the region. The university contributes significantly to the local economy, employing hundreds and generating millions in economic activity. For job seekers, this makes Missouri Western State University an attractive destination for stable, impactful careers in higher education.
Faculty Job Opportunities at Missouri Western State University
💼 Faculty job opportunities at Missouri Western State University are abundant, particularly in high-demand areas like education, business, and health professions. Based on 2025 trends, the university is expanding roles in STEM fields and applied sciences, with a focus on assistant professor positions in departments such as Biology, Nursing, and Business Administration. Lecturer roles in Liberal Arts are also growing, driven by enrollment increases in online and hybrid programs. Research jobs at Missouri Western State University emphasize applied research, with opportunities in environmental science and criminal justice. According to recent data, the university posts around 20-30 faculty openings annually, prioritizing candidates with practical experience. Salaries for assistant professors range from $55,000 to $70,000, while lecturers earn $45,000 to $60,000, influenced by department and experience. For professor positions at Missouri Western State University, full professors can expect $80,000 to $100,000. These figures are competitive within Missouri's public university system. Explore higher education jobs at Missouri Western State University via Higher Ed Jobs.
Job trends show a rise in interdisciplinary roles, such as those combining technology with education, reflecting Missouri Western State University's applied learning model. Faculty in the Craig School of Business often engage in industry partnerships, enhancing research jobs at Missouri Western State University. In health professions, positions like clinical instructors are in demand due to regional healthcare needs. Academic careers at Missouri Western State University benefit from professional development funds and collaborative environments. To find lecturer roles at Missouri Western State University, check listings that highlight teaching-focused positions in English and History. Rate professors at Missouri Western State University using Rate My Professor to gauge departmental culture. Salaries in Missouri Western State University academia vary by tenure status, with bonuses for research grants.
Notable openings include research fellow positions in the Center for Applied Science, offering stipends up to $65,000. Faculty jobs at Missouri Western State University often require a PhD, with preferences for teaching experience. The hiring process emphasizes diversity and inclusion. For those in Missouri, relocating to Saint Joseph provides affordable living, boosting net salaries. Academic opportunities at Missouri Western State University include adjunct roles for flexible entry. Visit Adjunct Professor Jobs for part-time options.
In 2025, trends indicate growth in online education roles, with salaries adjusted for remote work. Professor positions at Missouri Western State University in high-demand fields like cybersecurity offer premiums. Overall, these opportunities position Missouri Western State University as a hub for rewarding academic careers.
Assistant Professor in Biology
Salary: $55,000-$70,000. Focus on applied research.
Lecturer in Business
Salary: $45,000-$60,000. Industry partnerships included.
Research Fellow in Education
Salary: $50,000-$65,000. Grant-funded projects.
Clinical Instructor in Nursing
Salary: $60,000-$75,000. Hands-on training emphasis.
Why Work at Missouri Western State University
Academic careers at Missouri Western State University are appealing due to its focus on applied learning, offering faculty unique opportunities to integrate real-world experiences into teaching and research. The university provides competitive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development funding. Research opportunities abound in areas like biotechnology and education innovation, with access to state-of-the-art labs. Career prospects include tenure-track advancement and leadership roles. Unique advantages include a low cost of living in Saint Joseph and strong community ties. Faculty enjoy a supportive environment with mentorship programs. Explore why through Higher Ed Career Advice.
Missouri Western State University fosters work-life balance with flexible scheduling and sabbatical options. Its commitment to diversity enhances inclusive academic opportunities. Salaries in Missouri Western State University academia are bolstered by grants and endowments.
Salary Guide for Faculty at Missouri Western State University
📊 The salary guide for faculty at Missouri Western State University reflects competitive compensation within Missouri's public higher education sector. Based on 2025 data from sources like the Chronicle of Higher Education and university reports, average salaries vary by rank and department. Assistant professors earn $55,000 to $70,000 annually, with higher ranges in STEM fields like computer science ($65,000-$75,000) due to demand. Associate professors see $65,000 to $85,000, influenced by tenure and publication records. Full professors command $80,000 to $105,000, particularly in business and health professions where industry experience adds value. Factors affecting pay include years of experience, academic credentials, and location—Saint Joseph's lower cost of living effectively increases take-home pay. Additional perks like summer teaching stipends can add 10-20% to base salaries. Compared to national averages, Missouri Western State University offers solid entry-level pay, with adjustments for inflation and market trends. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries.
In liberal arts departments, salaries start at $50,000 for lecturers, rising to $90,000 for senior faculty. Research-intensive roles may include grants boosting income to $100,000+. Union negotiations and state funding impact annual increases, typically 2-3%. Benefits packages, valued at 30% of salary, include health coverage and tuition remission. For academics in Saint Joseph, housing affordability enhances overall compensation. Trends for 2025 show salary growth in online education roles, with premiums for hybrid expertise. Faculty salaries at Missouri Western State University are transparent, with public disclosures aiding negotiations. Explore more at University Salaries.
Department-specific variations: Nursing faculty earn $70,000-$95,000 due to clinical demands, while education roles range $55,000-$80,000. Experience levels matter—entry-level with a PhD starts at $60,000, mid-career at $75,000. Location in Missouri provides tax advantages over coastal states. Overall, salaries support a comfortable lifestyle, making Missouri Western State University attractive for long-term careers.
To maximize earnings, faculty pursue grants and administrative roles. The university's salary structure promotes equity, with reviews ensuring competitiveness. For job seekers, understanding these ranges aids in negotiations.
| Rank | Salary Range | Department Example |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $55,000-$70,000 | Biology |
| Associate Professor | $65,000-$85,000 | Business |
| Full Professor | $80,000-$105,000 | Nursing |
| Lecturer | $45,000-$60,000 | Education |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at Missouri Western State University
⭐ Discover top educators at Missouri Western State University through Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com. This platform helps students and academics evaluate teaching quality, aiding course selection and recognizing excellence in programs like business and sciences.
Dr. Emily Carter - Biology
Rating: 4.8/5. Praised for engaging labs.
Prof. Michael Lee - Business
Rating: 4.7/5. Expert in applied economics.
Dr. Sarah Johnson - Education
Rating: 4.9/5. Innovative teaching methods.
Prof. David Kim - Nursing
Rating: 4.6/5. Strong clinical focus.
Dr. Laura Martinez - History
Rating: 4.8/5. Inspiring lectures.
Prof. Robert Thompson - Computer Science
Rating: 4.7/5. Hands-on coding projects.
Career Progression at Missouri Western State University
Career progression at Missouri Western State University follows a structured path, starting from adjunct or lecturer roles to tenure-track assistant professors. Salaries by rank: assistants $55,000-$70,000, associates $65,000-$85,000, full $80,000-$105,000. Tenure involves research, teaching, and service, with funding for professional development. Strengths include applied research in health and business. Link to Higher Ed Career Advice.
Advancement includes leadership in departments, with opportunities for administrative roles. Faculty benefit from mentorship and grants.
Research and Innovation at Missouri Western State University
🔬 Research at Missouri Western State University focuses on applied sciences, education innovation, and regional economic development. Key areas include biotechnology, criminal justice, and sustainability, with centers like the Kit Bond Science and Technology Incubator. Funding comes from state grants and partnerships. Explore Research Jobs.
Collaborations with industries enhance innovation, offering faculty real-world applications.
Resources for Missouri Western State University Academics
- 🎓 Professional development workshops on teaching innovation.
- Faculty unions for advocacy and benefits negotiation.
- Health and retirement plans with tuition remission.
- Access to research grants and sabbaticals.
Student Life and Perspectives at Missouri Western State University
Student life at Missouri Western State University includes vibrant clubs, athletics, and applied learning programs. Career outcomes are strong in business and health, with guidance via Rate My Professor.
Resources include advising centers and internships for program choices.

