Salaries at SDSU

At South Dakota State University (SDSU), located in Brookings, South Dakota, salary expectations for faculty and staff are typically determined by factors such as role, academic rank, years of experience, and field of expertise. Salaries often vary significantly between disciplines, with higher compensation in areas like engineering and health sciences compared to humanities. While SDSU operates as a public institution under the South Dakota Board of Regents, detailed salary bands or individual compensation data are not always publicly disclosed in a comprehensive format. However, some aggregate data may be accessible through state-level transparency initiatives or university reports, reflecting a commitment to accountability as a public entity.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is $50,000–$65,000 USD annually, depending on the department. Entry-level roles may start lower, with potential increases based on research output and teaching evaluations.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is $65,000–$80,000 USD per year. Mid-career faculty often see increments tied to tenure status and publication records.
• Full Professor: Salaries typically range from $80,000–$100,000+ USD annually. Seniority, leadership roles, and external funding can significantly impact earnings at this level.
• Department Chair: Compensation generally falls between $90,000–$120,000 USD per year, often including stipends for administrative duties alongside base faculty pay.
• Administrative Staff (e.g., Academic Advisor): Salaries range from $40,000–$55,000 USD annually, influenced by experience and specific responsibilities within student services.

Salaries at South Dakota State University are generally competitive within the region, aligning with public sector benchmarks set by the state and comparable institutions in the Midwest. Progression often depends on performance reviews, tenure processes, and budget allocations from the state government. As a public university, SDSU salaries may not match those of private institutions or universities in higher-cost states, but they reflect a balance of affordability and professional compensation. For prospective employees, understanding salary structures may require direct consultation with HR or department heads, as comprehensive public data remains limited.