About San Francisco State University
San Francisco State University, founded in 1899 as the San Francisco State Normal School, has evolved into a comprehensive public university within the California State University system. Renamed San Francisco State University in 1974, it is renowned for its commitment to social justice, diversity, and urban education. The university's mission is to create and maintain an environment for learning that promotes respect for and appreciation of scholarship, freedom, human diversity, and the cultural mosaic of the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. Key achievements include pioneering the nation's first College of Ethnic Studies in 1969, which has influenced curricula nationwide. The main campus is located in the vibrant city of San Francisco, with additional facilities in nearby areas. San Francisco State University serves over 25,000 students and offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across six colleges: Liberal & Creative Arts, Business, Education, Health & Social Sciences, Science & Engineering, and Ethnic Studies. For more details, visit the San Francisco State University Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in California, and Academic Jobs in San Francisco.
The university has a rich history of student activism, including the 1968 student strike that led to the establishment of ethnic studies programs. Today, it continues to excel in areas like film, journalism, and environmental science, attracting faculty and students passionate about real-world impact. San Francisco State University's location in San Francisco provides unique access to tech hubs, cultural institutions, and diverse communities, enhancing research and teaching opportunities. Whether you're interested in academic careers at San Francisco State University or professor positions at San Francisco State University, this institution offers a dynamic environment for growth.
San Francisco State University is also known for its strong emphasis on community engagement and public service, with programs that integrate service-learning into the curriculum. Notable alumni include actors like Annette Bening and politicians like Willie Brown, reflecting its influence in various fields. The university's research centers, such as the Romberg Tiburon Center for Environmental Studies, contribute to cutting-edge work in sustainability and marine science. For those exploring higher education jobs at San Francisco State University, the institution's focus on inclusive excellence makes it a top choice.
Faculty Job Opportunities at San Francisco State University
💼 Faculty job opportunities at San Francisco State University are diverse and cater to a range of disciplines, reflecting the university's urban and inclusive ethos. High-demand roles include Assistant Professor positions in Ethnic Studies, Lecturer roles in Business Administration, and Research Fellow opportunities in Environmental Science. According to recent trends from 2025 data, there's growing demand for professor positions at San Francisco State University in STEM fields, social sciences, and education, driven by California's tech economy and focus on diversity. Key departments like the College of Liberal & Creative Arts and the College of Science & Engineering frequently post openings for tenure-track faculty, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary research. For instance, faculty in the Department of Biology at San Francisco State University often engage in marine and ecological studies, leveraging the nearby Romberg Tiburon Center.
Salary ranges for these roles, based on 2025 research from sources like the California State University salary database, typically start at $80,000-$100,000 for Assistant Professors, rising to $90,000-$120,000 for Associate Professors, and $110,000-$150,000 for Full Professors. These figures can vary by department, experience, and location premiums due to San Francisco's high cost of living. Lecturer roles may range from $60,000-$85,000 annually, often on a per-course basis. Academic careers at San Francisco State University benefit from strong union support and professional development funds. To explore these, visit Higher Ed Jobs filtered by San Francisco State University, or check Lecturer Jobs and Professor Jobs.
Job trends indicate a rise in remote and hybrid positions, especially post-pandemic, with San Francisco State University prioritizing hires that advance equity and inclusion. Research jobs at San Francisco State University often involve grants from federal agencies, focusing on urban health and sustainability. For those seeking higher education jobs at San Francisco State University, networking through conferences and the university's career portal is key. Rate professors at San Francisco State University on Rate My Professor to gain insights before applying.
In addition, administrative roles like Department Chair or Program Director offer pathways for experienced academics. With over 1,000 faculty members, San Francisco State University fosters a collaborative environment. Explore salaries at San Francisco State University academia via Professor Salaries. For location-specific opportunities, see Academic Jobs in California.
Assistant Professor in Ethnic Studies
Focus on social justice research; salary $85,000-$105,000.
Lecturer in Business
Teach management courses; salary $65,000-$90,000.
Research Fellow in Science
Environmental projects; salary $75,000-$95,000.
Associate Professor in Education
Tenure-track with teaching load; salary $95,000-$125,000.
Why Work at San Francisco State University
Working at San Francisco State University offers unparalleled opportunities for academic careers in a city known for innovation and diversity. Faculty enjoy access to cutting-edge research facilities, collaborative networks with Silicon Valley tech firms, and a commitment to work-life balance through flexible scheduling and comprehensive benefits. Unique perks include proximity to cultural landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and partnerships with local organizations for community-based research. Research from 2025 highlights San Francisco State University's strengths in ethnic studies and sustainability, making it ideal for scholars passionate about social impact. Career prospects are strong, with high tenure rates and opportunities for advancement. Explore why via Higher Ed Career Advice.
The university's urban location fosters interdisciplinary collaborations, and faculty often receive grants for projects in urban health and education reform. Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development stipends. For those in lecturer roles at San Francisco State University, the supportive union environment ensures fair compensation and job security.
Salary Guide for Faculty at San Francisco State University
📊 The salary guide for faculty at San Francisco State University reflects its position in the competitive California market. Based on 2025 data from the CSU Salary Schedule and Glassdoor insights, average salaries are influenced by rank, department, experience, and the high cost of living in San Francisco. Assistant Professors typically earn $80,000-$100,000, with higher ranges in STEM departments like Engineering ($90,000+). Associate Professors see $90,000-$120,000, while Full Professors command $110,000-$150,000, often supplemented by research grants. Factors affecting pay include tenure status, publication record, and administrative duties. For example, faculty in the College of Business may earn premiums due to industry demand.
Compared to national averages, San Francisco State University salaries are above average but adjusted for location. Lecturers earn $60,000-$85,000, with part-time rates at $5,000-$7,000 per course. Benefits add value, including pension contributions and health coverage. Research trends show salary growth in high-demand areas like data science and public health. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries and University Salaries.
Union negotiations often lead to annual increases, with 2025 projections indicating a 3-5% rise. Departments like Ethnic Studies offer competitive packages to attract diverse talent. Aspiring faculty should consider cost-of-living adjustments when evaluating offers. Explore faculty salaries at San Francisco State University through AcademicJobs.com resources.
Additional perks like housing assistance and sabbaticals enhance overall compensation. For those in research jobs at San Francisco State University, external funding can boost earnings significantly.
| Rank | Average Salary | Department Example |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $80,000-$100,000 | Science & Engineering |
| Associate Professor | $90,000-$120,000 | Business |
| Full Professor | $110,000-$150,000 | Ethnic Studies |
| Lecturer | $60,000-$85,000 | Education |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at San Francisco State University
⭐ Discover top educators at San Francisco State University through Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com. This platform helps students and academics rate professors at San Francisco State University, providing insights into teaching styles and course quality. Ratings aid in choosing programs and recognizing excellence in fields like journalism and biology.
Dr. Rabab Abdulhadi - Ethnic Studies
Rating: 4.8/5 - Known for engaging lectures on social justice.
Prof. Jeffrey Cook - Film
Rating: 4.7/5 - Expertise in cinema production.
Dr. Gretchen Wehrle - Biology
Rating: 4.9/5 - Focus on environmental science.
Prof. Theresa Roeder - Business
Rating: 4.6/5 - Strong in operations management.
Dr. Jason Ferreira - Ethnic Studies
Rating: 4.8/5 - Inspiring on cultural histories.
Career Progression at San Francisco State University
Career progression at San Francisco State University follows a structured path from Lecturer to Full Professor, with tenure-track options emphasizing research and teaching. Salaries increase with rank: Assistant ($80k+), Associate ($90k+), Full ($110k+). Strengths in ethnic studies and urban research provide funding opportunities. Learn more at Higher Ed Career Advice.
Professional development includes workshops and sabbaticals, supporting advancement.
Research and Innovation at San Francisco State University
🔬 Research at San Francisco State University focuses on urban sustainability, social equity, and health sciences, with centers like the Health Equity Institute. 2025 trends show increased funding for climate change studies. Explore Research Jobs.
Collaborations with Bay Area institutions drive innovation.
Resources for San Francisco State University Academics
- 🎓 Professional development via Faculty Affairs Office.
- 💼 Union support from California Faculty Association.
- 📍 Benefits including health and retirement plans.
Student Life and Perspectives at San Francisco State University
Student life at San Francisco State University is dynamic, with diverse clubs and urban experiences. Use Rate My Professor for course selection. Career outcomes are strong in tech and education.
