About Sonoma State University
Sonoma State University, founded in 1961 as part of the California State University system, is a public institution located in Rohnert Park, California, United States. Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, known for its wine country and natural beauty, the university emphasizes liberal arts education with a strong focus on sustainability, community engagement, and interdisciplinary studies. With a mission to foster intellectual, social, and personal growth, Sonoma State University serves over 9,000 students across six schools: Arts and Humanities, Business and Economics, Education, Extended and International Education, Science and Technology, and Social Sciences. Key achievements include its recognition for environmental leadership, such as being named a 'Green College' by The Princeton Review, and its innovative programs in wine business management, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage. The campus spans 269 acres, featuring modern facilities like the Green Music Center, a world-class performing arts venue. Sonoma State University is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with initiatives supporting underrepresented students and faculty. For more details, visit the Sonoma State University Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in California, and Academic Jobs in Rohnert Park. Sonoma State University academic opportunities attract those passionate about higher education jobs at Sonoma State University, including professor positions and research jobs.
Historically, Sonoma State University evolved from a small teacher-training college to a comprehensive university, gaining prominence in the 1970s with expansions in science and technology programs. Today, it boasts notable alumni in politics, arts, and business, and its research centers focus on topics like climate change and cultural preservation. The university's location in Rohnert Park provides access to San Francisco Bay Area resources while offering a serene campus environment. Faculty and students benefit from collaborations with local industries, enhancing academic careers at Sonoma State University. For job seekers, this means abundant lecturer roles at Sonoma State University and faculty jobs at Sonoma State University in dynamic fields.
Sonoma State University's commitment to excellence is evident in its accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and its rankings in U.S. News & World Report for regional universities. The institution prioritizes small class sizes, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1, fostering personalized learning. Key campus locations include the main Rohnert Park site and off-campus centers for extended education. Whether you're interested in rate professors at Sonoma State University or exploring salaries at Sonoma State University academia, this overview highlights why it's a top choice for higher education careers.
In summary, Sonoma State University stands as a beacon for academic innovation in California, blending tradition with forward-thinking programs. Discover more about its history and mission through official channels and consider how it aligns with your career goals in academia.
Faculty Job Opportunities at Sonoma State University
💼 Faculty job opportunities at Sonoma State University are diverse and aligned with emerging trends in higher education. As of 2025, high-demand roles include Assistant Professors in Environmental Studies, Lecturers in Business Administration, and Research Fellows in Wine Business, reflecting the university's strengths in sustainability and regional industries. According to recent data from sources like the Chronicle of Higher Education and university reports, Sonoma State University is expanding positions in STEM fields, education, and social sciences, with a focus on interdisciplinary research. For instance, the School of Science and Technology often seeks experts in biology and environmental science, while the School of Business and Economics prioritizes roles in management and economics. Salary ranges for these positions, based on 2025 projections, start at $70,000-$90,000 for Assistant Professors, $80,000-$100,000 for Lecturers, and $90,000-$110,000 for Associate Professors, influenced by experience, department, and funding. These figures are competitive within the California State University system, with adjustments for cost-of-living in the Bay Area. Job trends indicate a rise in remote and hybrid roles, especially post-pandemic, and an emphasis on diversity hiring. Explore professor positions at Sonoma State University through AcademicJobs.com's filtered search. For more on academic careers at Sonoma State University, check Higher Ed Jobs or Lecturer Jobs. In California, higher education jobs at Sonoma State University benefit from state funding and grants, making it an attractive destination for research jobs at Sonoma State University. Faculty in the Education department, for example, can expect opportunities in teacher training programs, with salaries averaging $85,000. The university's commitment to innovation creates roles like Research Associates in sustainability projects, often funded by external grants. Job seekers should note that tenure-track positions require strong publication records and teaching experience. With over 100 faculty openings projected for 2025, including adjunct professor jobs, Sonoma State University offers pathways for both early-career academics and seasoned professionals. Link to related searches like Academic Jobs in California for broader opportunities. Ultimately, pursuing faculty jobs at Sonoma State University means joining a community dedicated to impactful teaching and research.
To further detail, recent trends show a 15% increase in hiring for roles in health sciences, such as Nursing Lecturers, with salaries ranging from $75,000 to $95,000. The Arts and Humanities school frequently advertises for positions in music and theater, tied to the Green Music Center. For those interested in administrative roles, opportunities like Department Chairs offer salaries up to $130,000. AcademicJobs.com lists current openings, helping you find the best faculty jobs at Sonoma State University. Don't miss out on lecturer roles at Sonoma State University in emerging fields like data science.
Assistant Professor in Environmental Science
Focus on sustainability research; salary $70k-$90k. Apply via Higher Ed Jobs.
Lecturer in Business Administration
Teach core courses; salary $80k-$100k. Explore at Lecturer Jobs.
Research Fellow in Wine Studies
Industry collaborations; salary $85k-$105k. See Research Jobs.
Associate Professor in Education
Tenure-track; salary $90k-$110k. Visit Professor Jobs.
Why Work at Sonoma State University
Working at Sonoma State University offers unparalleled benefits for academic careers, including a supportive environment for research and teaching in a picturesque California location. Faculty enjoy access to state-of-the-art facilities like the Green Music Center and collaborations with local industries in wine and sustainability. Unique perks include professional development funds, sabbatical opportunities, and a focus on work-life balance with flexible scheduling. Research shows high job satisfaction due to small class sizes and community impact. Explore why via Higher Ed Career Advice. Academic careers at Sonoma State University are rewarding for those in professor positions at Sonoma State University.
Additionally, the university's emphasis on diversity and inclusion creates an inclusive workplace, with benefits like comprehensive health coverage and retirement plans through CalPERS. Career prospects include rapid advancement in growing departments like environmental studies.
Salary Guide for Faculty at Sonoma State University
📊 The salary guide for faculty at Sonoma State University reflects competitive compensation within the CSU system, with 2025 averages influenced by rank, department, and experience. Based on data from sources like the California State University salary database and Glassdoor, Assistant Professors earn $70,000-$90,000 annually, Associate Professors $90,000-$110,000, and Full Professors $110,000-$140,000 or more. Factors affecting pay include location in high-cost Sonoma County, adding cost-of-living adjustments up to 10%, and department specifics—STEM fields like Science and Technology often pay higher (e.g., $95,000 average for associates) compared to humanities ($85,000). Lecturers, on part-time or full-time contracts, range from $60,000-$85,000, with opportunities for overload pay. Recent trends show a 5% increase in base salaries due to union negotiations and state funding. For example, in the School of Business, professors can expect bonuses for industry consultations. Compared to national averages, Sonoma State University salaries are above median for public universities, though below private institutions. Additional perks like health benefits and research stipends enhance total compensation. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries or University Salaries. Salaries at Sonoma State University academia are designed to attract top talent in higher education jobs at Sonoma State University. Faculty in education roles might see averages of $80,000, while research-intensive positions in environmental science offer grants boosting effective income. Experience plays a key role; entry-level hires start lower but advance quickly with tenure. Location in Rohnert Park means housing stipends for some. Overall, this guide helps job seekers navigate faculty salaries at Sonoma State University for informed decisions.
To elaborate, 2025 projections indicate potential raises due to inflation and budget allocations, with full professors in high-demand areas like nursing reaching $150,000. Union representation ensures fair negotiations, and performance-based incentives are common.
| Rank | Average Salary | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $80,000 | $70k-$90k |
| Associate Professor | $100,000 | $90k-$110k |
| Full Professor | $125,000 | $110k-$140k |
| Lecturer | $72,000 | $60k-$85k |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at Sonoma State University
⭐ Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com helps students and academics discover top educators at Sonoma State University through honest ratings and reviews. This platform aids in choosing courses and recognizing teaching excellence in programs like environmental studies and business. Professor ratings at Sonoma State University guide career decisions and academic paths.
Dr. Laura Watt - Environmental Studies
Rating: 4.8/5. Known for engaging lectures on sustainability.
Dr. Armand Gilinsky - Business
Rating: 4.7/5. Expertise in wine business management.
Dr. Wendy Ostroff - Education
Rating: 4.9/5. Inspiring teacher training methods.
Dr. Daniel Soto - Physics
Rating: 4.6/5. Innovative research in renewable energy.
Dr. Sara K. Parker - Art History
Rating: 4.8/5. Passionate about cultural preservation.
Career Progression at Sonoma State University
Career progression at Sonoma State University follows a structured path from lecturer to full professor, with tenure-track opportunities emphasizing research and teaching. Entry-level academics start as assistants, advancing to associates after 5-7 years with publications. Salaries increase accordingly, from $70k to $120k+. Professional development includes workshops and funding. Learn more at Higher Ed Career Advice. Career paths at Sonoma State University are supported by strengths in sustainability.
Tenure requires service contributions, and research funding from grants enhances progression.
Research and Innovation at Sonoma State University
🔬 Research at Sonoma State University focuses on sustainability, wine science, and social justice, with centers like the Fairfield Osborn Preserve. 2025 trends include climate resilience projects and collaborations with NASA. Opportunities abound in funded initiatives. Explore Research Jobs.
Innovation hubs support interdisciplinary work, attracting grants over $10 million annually.
Resources for Sonoma State University Academics
- 🎓 Professional development via Faculty Center workshops.
- Union support through California Faculty Association.
- Benefits including CalPERS retirement and health plans.
- Research grants from university foundation.
Student Life and Perspectives at Sonoma State University
Student life at Sonoma State University features vibrant clubs, outdoor activities, and career services. Programs in business and education lead to strong outcomes. Use Rate My Professor for professor selection.
Perspectives highlight inclusive community and internship opportunities in Sonoma County.

