About Thompson Rivers University
Thompson Rivers University (TRU), established in 1970 as Cariboo College, has evolved into a comprehensive public university in Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada. It gained university status in 2005, merging with the University College of the Cariboo and expanding its offerings. TRU is known for its commitment to accessible education, serving over 25,000 students annually through on-campus and online programs. The university's mission emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, with a strong focus on indigenous reconciliation and community engagement. Key achievements include its leadership in open learning via TRU Open Learning, one of Canada's largest distance education providers, and its research contributions in areas like environmental science and tourism management. The main campus in Kamloops spans 250 acres, featuring modern facilities, research centers, and a welcoming environment nestled in the Thompson Valley. TRU also operates regional centers in Williams Lake and other locations, extending its reach across British Columbia. For more details, visit the Thompson Rivers University Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in Canada, Academic Jobs in British Columbia, and Academic Jobs in Kamloops.
TRU boasts diverse faculties, including the Faculty of Arts, Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics, Faculty of Education, Health Sciences and Social Work, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Science, School of Nursing, School of Trades and Technology, and School of Tourism and Hospitality Management. These departments drive academic excellence, with programs accredited by bodies like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) for business studies. The university's history reflects a dedication to regional development, starting as a response to the need for post-secondary education in the Interior of British Columbia. Today, TRU is a hub for international students, with partnerships worldwide, and it emphasizes experiential learning through co-op programs and fieldwork. Notable milestones include the establishment of the TRU Law School in 2011, the first new law school in Canada in over 30 years, and ongoing investments in sustainability initiatives, such as the Industrial Innovation Centre. For academics interested in higher education jobs Thompson Rivers University, TRU offers a blend of teaching, research, and community impact in a picturesque setting.
The university's campus life is enriched by its location in Kamloops, a city known for its outdoor recreation, cultural events, and growing economy. TRU contributes significantly to the local community through initiatives like the Kamloops Innovation Centre and collaborations with indigenous groups, including the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc. With a focus on research that addresses real-world challenges, TRU has secured funding from agencies like the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). This makes it an attractive destination for those pursuing academic careers at Thompson Rivers University, where innovation meets practical application.
Faculty Job Opportunities at Thompson Rivers University
💼 Thompson Rivers University Jobs are in high demand, particularly in fields like health sciences, business, and environmental studies. As of 2025 trends, there's growing need for Assistant Professors in Sustainability and Indigenous Studies, Lecturers in Nursing, and Research Fellows in Tourism Management. The Faculty of Science often seeks experts in Biology and Environmental Science, with roles emphasizing interdisciplinary research. Professor positions Thompson Rivers University typically require a PhD and demonstrated teaching excellence, while lecturer roles Thompson Rivers University focus on undergraduate instruction. Research jobs Thompson Rivers University are bolstered by grants, with opportunities in applied sciences. According to recent data, TRU plans to expand its faculty by 10-15% in the next few years to support enrollment growth. Salary ranges for these positions vary: Assistant Professors earn approximately $80,000-$100,000 CAD, Associates $100,000-$120,000 CAD, and Full Professors $120,000-$150,000+ CAD, influenced by department and experience. These figures are competitive within British Columbia's higher education sector. For those exploring academic careers at Thompson Rivers University, positions in the Bob Gaglardi School of Business offer pathways in economics and management, with salaries starting at $90,000 CAD for entry-level roles. The university prioritizes diversity and inclusion in hiring, aligning with its strategic plan. To find the latest openings, visit Higher Ed Jobs filtered by Thompson Rivers University. Additionally, check Lecturer Jobs and Professor Jobs for tailored opportunities. TRU's job market reflects broader trends in Canadian academia, with emphasis on remote and hybrid roles post-pandemic.
High-demand departments include the Faculty of Law, where tenure-track positions in Indigenous Law are prominent, and the School of Nursing, seeking clinical instructors amid healthcare shortages. Faculty jobs Thompson Rivers University often include benefits like professional development funds and sabbaticals. Recent hires have focused on digital innovation, with roles in Computer Science and Data Analytics. For international applicants, TRU supports work visas and relocation. Explore more in Academic Jobs in British Columbia or Academic Jobs in Kamloops. The university's commitment to open learning creates unique positions in online education design. Salary data from 2025 reports indicate adjustments for cost-of-living in Kamloops, which is lower than Vancouver, making TRU attractive. Whether you're aiming for higher education jobs Thompson Rivers University or research jobs Thompson Rivers University, the opportunities are diverse and impactful.
To advance your search, consider rate professors Thompson Rivers University on Rate My Professor to gauge departmental culture. TRU's job trends show a shift toward sustainable practices, with new roles in green technology. Overall, Thompson Rivers University academic opportunities provide a balance of teaching, research, and community service in a supportive environment.
Assistant Professor in Environmental Science
Focus on sustainability research; salary ~$85,000 CAD.
Lecturer in Business Administration
Teach undergraduate courses; salary ~$90,000 CAD.
Research Fellow in Tourism
Collaborate on industry projects; salary ~$95,000 CAD.
Associate Professor in Nursing
Clinical and teaching duties; salary ~$110,000 CAD.
Why Work at Thompson Rivers University
Academic careers at Thompson Rivers University are appealing due to its innovative approach to education and strong community ties. Faculty enjoy research opportunities in cutting-edge areas like climate change and indigenous health, supported by grants exceeding $10 million annually. Career prospects include rapid advancement through tenure-track positions, with a focus on work-life balance in scenic Kamloops. Unique benefits include tuition waivers for family, professional development funding, and access to the TRU Wellness Centre. Compared to larger institutions, TRU offers smaller class sizes for meaningful student interactions. Explore why via Higher Ed Career Advice. The university's emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity creates a rewarding environment for those passionate about impactful teaching and research.
TRU's location in British Columbia provides outdoor lifestyle perks, enhancing job satisfaction. Notable for its open learning model, faculty can engage in global education delivery. Benefits packages are comprehensive, including pension plans and health coverage superior to many peers.
Salary Guide for Faculty at Thompson Rivers University
📊 Salaries Thompson Rivers University academia are competitive, with 2025 data showing averages influenced by rank, department, and experience. Assistant Professors typically earn $80,000-$100,000 CAD, while Associates range from $100,000-$120,000 CAD, and Full Professors $120,000-$150,000+ CAD. Factors include location in Kamloops, where living costs are moderate, and department specifics—Science and Law roles often command higher pay due to demand. Compared to national averages, TRU salaries are on par with mid-sized Canadian universities, adjusted for British Columbia's economy. Experience adds 5-10% per promotion, with bonuses for research grants. For detailed comparisons, visit Professor Salaries or University Salaries. Union agreements ensure annual increases, and adjunct positions start at $60,000 CAD pro-rated. In high-demand fields like Nursing, salaries can exceed $130,000 CAD for seniors. Location perks include lower taxes than urban centers, boosting net income. Trends show a 3-5% rise in 2025 due to inflation adjustments. Faculty in Business may see premiums for industry experience. Overall, salaries at Thompson Rivers University support a comfortable lifestyle while fostering academic growth.
Additional factors like publication records and administrative duties can elevate pay. For international faculty, currency conversion favors CAD strength. Research from sources like the Canadian Association of University Teachers indicates TRU's compensation is above average for its size. Explore more in Academic Jobs in Canada.
To optimize earnings, pursue grants from NSERC or SSHRC, which supplement base pay. Union support ensures transparency in salary negotiations. In summary, faculty salaries Thompson Rivers University provide stability and growth potential in a vibrant academic setting.
| Rank | Average Salary (CAD) | Department Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $80,000-$100,000 | Science, Arts |
| Associate Professor | $100,000-$120,000 | Business, Law |
| Full Professor | $120,000-$150,000+ | Nursing, Tourism |
| Lecturer | $70,000-$90,000 | Education, Trades |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at Thompson Rivers University
⭐ Discover top educators through professor ratings Thompson Rivers University on AcademicJobs.com's Rate My Professor. This platform helps students and academics evaluate teaching quality, aiding course selection and recognizing excellence in programs like Business and Science.
Dr. Will Garrett-Petts (Arts)
Rating: 4.8/5 - Praised for engaging lectures in cultural studies.
Dr. Nancy Flood (Biology)
Rating: 4.7/5 - Expert in ecology, known for hands-on labs.
Dr. Peter Tsigaris (Economics)
Rating: 4.9/5 - Clear explanations in behavioral economics.
Dr. Wendy Hulko (Social Work)
Rating: 4.6/5 - Focus on indigenous perspectives, supportive mentor.
Dr. Tom Dickinson (Education)
Rating: 4.8/5 - Innovative teaching methods in pedagogy.
Career Progression at Thompson Rivers University
Career paths at Thompson Rivers University often start with lecturer roles Thompson Rivers University, progressing to tenure-track Assistant Professor positions. Salaries increase with rank: from $80,000 CAD entry-level to $140,000+ for seniors. Tenure involves research output and teaching excellence, with funding from internal grants. Professional development includes workshops and sabbaticals. Strengths in tourism and health sciences offer specialized tracks. Learn more at Higher Ed Career Advice. Factors like publications accelerate advancement in this collaborative environment.
TRU supports mid-career growth through leadership roles and interdisciplinary collaborations.
Research and Innovation at Thompson Rivers University
🔬 Research trends at Thompson Rivers University emphasize sustainability, indigenous knowledge, and health innovation. Major areas include environmental monitoring and tourism resilience, with centers like the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching. Funding exceeds $10M annually, supporting collaborations with industry. Explore opportunities at Research Jobs. TRU's innovation hub fosters startups in green tech.
Key projects involve climate adaptation and digital health, aligning with national priorities.
Resources for Thompson Rivers University Academics
- Professional development via TRU's Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching.
- Union support through TRU Faculty Association for negotiations and benefits.
- Comprehensive health and pension plans, including family coverage.
- Access to research grants and sabbatical opportunities.
- Explore more at Higher Ed Career Advice.
Student Life and Perspectives at Thompson Rivers University
Students at Thompson Rivers University enjoy diverse programs in arts and sciences, with strong career outcomes in healthcare and business. Choose professors wisely using Rate My Professor. Campus resources include the Wellness Centre and indigenous support services. Life in Kamloops offers outdoor activities and cultural events, enhancing the student experience.
Graduates report high employment rates, bolstered by co-op programs.

