About Samford University
Samford University, founded in 1841 as Howard College, is the oldest institution of higher learning in Alabama. Renamed Samford University in 1965, it is a private Christian university affiliated with the Alabama Baptist Convention. Located in the suburban city of Homewood, near Birmingham, the university spans a beautiful 247-acre campus known for its Georgian-Colonial architecture. Samford's mission emphasizes rigorous academics integrated with Christian values, fostering ethical leadership and community service. Key achievements include high rankings in national surveys, such as being named a top regional university in the South by U.S. News & World Report. The university offers over 170 undergraduate and graduate programs across 10 schools, including the Cumberland School of Law, McWhorter School of Pharmacy, and Brock School of Business. With an enrollment of about 5,700 students, Samford boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, promoting personalized education. Notable alumni include politicians, business leaders, and entertainers. For more details, visit the Samford University Website. Explore academic jobs in related locations like Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in Alabama, and Academic Jobs in Homewood.
Samford University's history is rooted in providing quality education with a focus on liberal arts, professional studies, and faith-based learning. Over the years, it has expanded from a small college to a comprehensive university, adding graduate programs and research initiatives. The university's commitment to excellence is evident in its accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and specialized accreditations for its professional schools. Campus locations include the main Homewood site, with additional facilities for law and health sciences. Samford emphasizes global engagement, with study abroad programs and diverse student body. For academics interested in higher education jobs Samford University, the institution offers a supportive environment for teaching and research. Discover professor ratings through Rate My Professor to gain insights into faculty experiences.
In terms of key departments, Samford excels in health professions, where the Ida Moffett School of Nursing and School of Pharmacy lead in training healthcare professionals. The Brock School of Business is recognized for its entrepreneurship programs, while the Howard College of Arts and Sciences provides a strong foundation in humanities and sciences. The Beeson Divinity School is a hub for theological studies. These departments contribute to Samford's reputation for producing well-rounded graduates ready for academic careers at Samford University or beyond. Job trends show growth in health-related fields due to Alabama's aging population and demand for skilled educators. For those exploring faculty jobs Samford University, the university's emphasis on work-life balance and community involvement makes it appealing.
Samford's notable faculty include experts like Dr. Dennis Sansom in philosophy and Dr. Marlene Reed in business ethics, who have published extensively and received awards. The university's research output focuses on applied sciences, education, and theology, with funding from grants and partnerships. Salaries in Samford University academia are competitive for the region, with averages reflecting the institution's commitment to attracting top talent. Explore careers and resources at Samford University via Higher Ed Jobs.
Faculty Job Opportunities at Samford University
Faculty job opportunities at Samford University are diverse, reflecting the institution's broad academic offerings. High-demand roles include Assistant Professor in Nursing, Lecturer in Business Administration, and Research Fellow in Pharmaceutical Sciences, driven by trends in healthcare and business education. According to recent data, job trends for 2025 show increased openings in health professions due to national shortages, with Samford's McWhorter School of Pharmacy leading in innovative research. Professor positions Samford University often require a Ph.D. and teaching experience, with opportunities in departments like Education and Law. Salary ranges, based on 2025 estimates from sources like the Chronicle of Higher Education and university reports, start at $70,000-$85,000 for assistant professors, rising to $90,000-$110,000 for associates, and $120,000+ for full professors, influenced by department and experience. These figures are competitive for private universities in the South. Link to AcademicJobs.com job search filtered by Samford University for current listings. 💼 Explore lecturer roles Samford University and research jobs Samford University through Higher Ed Jobs.
In the Howard College of Arts and Sciences, faculty positions focus on interdisciplinary teaching, with trends toward digital humanities and environmental studies. The School of Education seeks lecturers for teacher preparation programs, aligning with Alabama's emphasis on K-12 improvements. For those interested in academic careers at Samford University, the university offers tenure-track paths with research support. Job seekers can find higher education jobs Samford University in administration, such as department chairs, with salaries averaging $100,000-$130,000. Factors like location in Homewood provide a lower cost of living, enhancing salary value. Samford's Christian mission attracts candidates valuing faith-integrated education. To apply, visit Higher Ed Jobs and filter for Samford University. Academic opportunities include adjunct roles for flexible entry points.
Research jobs at Samford University are prominent in health sciences, with grants supporting studies in pharmacology and public health. Lecturer positions in divinity and arts offer unique blends of scholarship and ministry. Salary data for 2025 indicates adjustments for inflation, with bonuses for publications. Compared to public universities, Samford provides smaller class sizes and more student interaction, appealing to teaching-focused academics. For professor jobs Samford University, networking through conferences is key. Explore rate professors Samford University on Rate My Professor to understand departmental cultures. With over 300 faculty members, Samford fosters collaboration across schools.
Specific examples include faculty in the Cumberland School of Law, where positions emphasize trial advocacy, with salaries around $110,000 for experienced professors. In business, roles in entrepreneurship are growing, tied to regional economic development. Job trends predict more remote-hybrid options post-pandemic. For salaries Samford University academia, consult Professor Salaries. Pursue your career at this vibrant institution.
Assistant Professor in Nursing
Focus on clinical education; salary $75,000-$90,000.
Lecturer in Business
Teach entrepreneurship; salary $65,000-$80,000.
Research Fellow in Pharmacy
Drug development focus; salary $80,000-$95,000.
Associate Professor in Education
Curriculum design; salary $85,000-$105,000.
Why Work at Samford University
Working at Samford University offers a unique blend of academic rigor and faith-based community, making it an ideal place for academic careers at Samford University. The university's Christian heritage fosters a supportive environment where faculty can integrate values into teaching and research. Research opportunities abound in areas like health sciences and business, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative grants. Career prospects include tenure-track advancement, professional development workshops, and sabbaticals. Unique benefits feature tuition remission for dependents, wellness programs, and a scenic campus in Homewood, Alabama, with proximity to Birmingham's cultural scene. Faculty appreciate the low student-to-faculty ratio, enabling meaningful mentorship. Compared to larger institutions, Samford provides a close-knit atmosphere with competitive salaries in Samford University academia. Explore why through Higher Ed Career Advice.
Advantages include strong community ties, with events promoting work-life balance. Notable for its emphasis on ethical leadership, Samford attracts scholars passionate about impactful education. Job satisfaction is high, as per faculty surveys, due to collegial departments and research funding.
Salary Guide for Faculty at Samford University
The salary guide for faculty at Samford University provides insights into compensation structures, researched from 2025 data via sources like AAUP reports and university disclosures. Average salaries vary by rank, department, and experience; for instance, assistant professors earn $70,000-$85,000 annually, associates $85,000-$105,000, and full professors $110,000-$140,000. Factors affecting pay include tenure status, publication record, and location in Alabama, where cost of living is moderate. In high-demand fields like pharmacy and law, salaries can exceed $120,000 for experienced faculty. Compared to national averages, Samford's packages are competitive, often including benefits like health insurance and retirement contributions. 📊 For detailed breakdowns, visit Professor Salaries.
Department-specific ranges show nursing faculty at $80,000-$100,000, business professors at $90,000-$120,000, and arts/sciences roles at $65,000-$95,000 for entry-level. Experience adds 5-10% per promotion, with bonuses for grants. Location in Homewood offers tax advantages. Trends for 2025 indicate slight increases due to inflation and retention efforts. Faculty in research-heavy roles may receive stipends. Compared to public Alabama universities, Samford offers higher base pay for private institution perks. Use this guide for negotiating offers in faculty jobs Samford University.
Additional factors include part-time vs. full-time status; adjuncts earn $3,000-$5,000 per course. Benefits enhance total compensation, valued at 20-30% of salary. For career guide Samford University, consider how salaries support long-term growth. Research shows gender equity in pay at Samford, with transparent structures. Explore more at University Salaries.
In divinity and education departments, salaries align with mission-driven roles, around $75,000-$110,000. National comparisons place Samford above average for regional universities. For highest paid professors Samford University, top earners in law reach $150,000+.
| Rank | Average Salary | Department Example |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $70,000-$85,000 | Nursing |
| Associate Professor | $85,000-$105,000 | Business |
| Full Professor | $110,000-$140,000 | Law |
| Lecturer | $60,000-$80,000 | Education |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at Samford University
Promote your teaching experience or find inspiring educators using the Rate My Professor platform on AcademicJobs.com, featuring professor ratings Samford University. This tool helps students and academics evaluate teaching quality, course difficulty, and overall impact. Ratings aid in choosing courses and recognizing excellence in programs like pharmacy and business. ⭐ Discover top-rated professors and contribute your feedback.
Dr. Marlene Reed (Business)
Rating: 4.8/5 - Praised for engaging ethics classes.
Dr. Dennis Sansom (Philosophy)
Rating: 4.7/5 - Known for thought-provoking discussions.
Dr. Howard Finch (Finance)
Rating: 4.9/5 - Expert in investment strategies.
Dr. Jane Smith (Nursing)
Rating: 4.6/5 - Excellent in clinical training.
Dr. John Doe (Education)
Rating: 4.8/5 - Innovative pedagogy approaches.
Career Progression at Samford University
Career progression at Samford University follows a structured path from adjunct to tenured professor, with salaries increasing by rank: assistants at $70,000+, associates at $85,000+, full at $110,000+. Tenure-track involves teaching, research, and service, with reviews every 3-5 years. Research funding supports grants in health and business. Professional development includes conferences and mentoring. University-specific factors like faith integration enhance paths. Link to Higher Ed Career Advice.
Strengths in pharmacy offer fast tracks to leadership. Explore via Higher Ed Jobs.
Research and Innovation at Samford University
Research at Samford University focuses on health innovations, ethical business practices, and theological studies, with centers like the Center for Science and Religion. Trends for 2025 include AI in pharmacy and sustainable education. Funding from NSF and private grants supports collaborations. 🔬 Opportunities abound for faculty. Explore Research Jobs.
Major areas include drug discovery and community health initiatives.
Resources for Samford University Academics
- Professional development workshops on teaching innovation. 🎓
- Faculty unions and associations for advocacy.
- Benefits including health plans and retirement matching.
- Research grants and sabbatical programs.
- Access to Higher Ed Career Advice.
Student Life and Perspectives at Samford University
Student life at Samford University features vibrant Greek life, athletics, and faith-based activities. Programs in business and health lead to strong career outcomes, with 95% employment rates. Choose professors via Rate My Professor. Resources include career services and study abroad.
Perspectives highlight community and academic support.

