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University of Montana

Also known as: UM

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32 Campus Dr, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
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Salaries at UM

UM Employer Profile

Introduction to University of Montana Graduate Salaries

University of Montana salaries offer a compelling picture for academics and professionals eyeing opportunities in higher education, particularly in the scenic city of Missoula, Montana. Whether you're researching University of Montana faculty salaries, executive compensation, or post-graduation earnings, this overview provides key insights drawn from reliable sources like the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) Faculty Compensation Survey and the university's Common Data Set. At the University of Montana (UM), nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, compensation reflects a balance of competitive pay and a low cost of living, making it attractive for faculty, executives, and support staff worldwide.

Faculty positions dominate the salary landscape at UM, with salaries at University of Montana for full professors averaging around $116,500 annually based on 2022-23 AAUP data, associate professors at $92,900, and assistant professors at $79,700. These figures represent full-time, nine-month contracts and can increase with summer teaching, grants, or administrative stipends. For instance, tenured faculty in high-demand fields like forestry, law, or environmental science often exceed these averages due to external funding from the U.S. Forest Service or National Science Foundation grants. Tenure-track roles require a PhD or equivalent, rigorous peer-reviewed publications, and teaching excellence—check Rate My Professor for candid reviews from UM students on faculty performance in Missoula.

Executive salaries at the University of Montana command premium figures, underscoring leadership roles' value. The university president earns approximately $325,000 per year, per public records, while deans average $180,000-$220,000 depending on the college—higher for the prestigious School of Law or W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation. Provosts and vice presidents range from $200,000 to $280,000, often including housing allowances and performance bonuses tied to enrollment growth or fundraising milestones. These roles demand advanced degrees, decades of experience, and strategic vision; aspiring leaders can prepare via higher ed career advice on becoming a university leader.

Beyond faculty and executives, University of Montana graduate salaries for recent alumni start at a median of $45,000 early career, rising to $70,000 mid-career per U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard data. Graduates in business or health professions fare best, with UM alumni earnings boosted by regional demand in tourism, biotech, and public administration. Staff roles like human resources managers ($65,000-$85,000), librarians ($55,000-$75,000), or campus caretakers ($40,000-$50,000) provide stable entry points, adjusted for Montana's 15-20% below-national-average cost of living index.

University of Montana salary trends show modest 3-5% annual increases, outpacing inflation, driven by state funding and private donations. Compared to national public university averages (full prof $128,000), UM offers strong value—equivalent purchasing power stretches further in Missoula than in coastal cities. Factors influencing pay include rank, experience, department funding, and negotiation savvy; for tips, explore higher ed career advice.

Ready to pursue University of Montana job salaries? Browse open positions on AcademicJobs.com higher ed jobs, including faculty jobs and executive roles at UM. For local context, check opportunities in Missoula, Montana, or Montana higher ed jobs. Gain insider perspectives via Rate My Professor reviews for University of Montana faculty. Visit the UM Human Resources page for official postings and benefits like tuition waivers that enhance total compensation.

📊 Job Market Insights for Active Seekers

Exploring University of Montana salaries reveals a dynamic job market in Missoula, Montana, where demand for faculty and staff remains steady amid regional economic growth. The university, a key employer in the state, prioritizes hires in high-demand fields like forestry, environmental science, and health professions, reflecting Montana's natural resource economy and outdoor lifestyle appeal. Recent trends show University of Montana faculty salaries averaging $92,367 annually (2022-23 data from university reports), with assistant professors earning around $72,000, associates $85,000, and full professors exceeding $110,000—figures that lag national averages by 10-15% but stretch further due to Missoula's low 8.5% cost-of-living index compared to the U.S. average of 100.

Job demand is robust: UM posted over 40 faculty openings in 2024 on platforms like AcademicJobs.com, particularly in STEM and business, driven by enrollment up 2% to 10,000 students and state funding boosts. Executive roles, such as deans and VPs, command $180,000-$300,000, with competitive packages including relocation aid. For non-faculty positions like HR specialists ($55,000-$70,000) or library coordinators ($48,000-$62,000), opportunities abound in support services. Salary trends at University of Montana indicate 3-5% annual increases, outpacing inflation, fueled by union negotiations and grants—check higher-ed faculty jobs for current listings.

Active seekers benefit from networking via Rate My Professor reviews specific to University of Montana departments, revealing workload insights that inform negotiations. Passive candidates, like researchers eyeing professorships, note rising remote-hybrid options post-pandemic. Compare via Missoula jobs or Montana higher ed. Alumni report mid-career earnings of $75,000 (Payscale), bolstered by UM's career services. For tailored advice, explore higher ed career advice or professor salaries benchmarks. Verify openings at UM Jobs Portal or Glassdoor for real-time salary data.

Position yourself strongly by tailoring applications to UM's mission—start with higher ed jobs today.

📊 Average Starting Salaries by Major

When researching University of Montana salaries, understanding average starting salaries by major helps aspiring faculty, executives, and graduates make informed decisions about careers at University of Montana (UM) in Missoula, Montana. While undergraduate and graduate starting salaries typically range from $40,000 to $60,000 six years post-graduation depending on the field, the focus for academic job seekers is often entry-level faculty positions like assistant professors, which start at $60,000–$85,000 annually based on 2023–2024 data from sources like Glassdoor and university disclosures. Executive roles, such as new department chairs or deans, can begin at $110,000–$150,000, influenced by administrative experience and budget oversight responsibilities.

Several factors shape these University of Montana starting salaries: academic rank (assistant professors earn less than associates), postdoctoral experience (1–3 years boosts pay by 10–15%), research funding (grants from NSF or NIH add stipends), PhD-granting institution prestige, and negotiation during offers. Missoula's cost of living index of 89.5 (below the U.S. average of 100) means a $70,000 salary equates to higher purchasing power than in coastal cities. State funding fluctuations and union negotiations via the University of Montana Faculty Association also play roles. For instance, STEM fields benefit from federal grants, pushing biology assistant professors to $72,000 starts, while humanities hover at $62,000.

Major/FieldAvg. Starting Faculty Salary (Assistant Prof)Avg. Graduate Starting Salary (Early Career)Key Notes
Business Administration$78,000$52,000High demand for MBA holders; exec tracks higher.
Forestry & Conservation$64,000$46,000UM strength; grants boost faculty pay.
Biology/Life Sciences$72,000$48,000Research-intensive; NIH funding key.
Education$65,000$42,000K-12 pipeline; admin roles grow earnings.
Journalism/Communication$62,000$44,000Missoulian ties; media exec potential.
English/Literature$61,000$41,000Teaching-focused; publications add value.
Executive/Administration$120,000+N/ADeans/VPs; experience-driven.

To maximize your salaries at University of Montana, build a strong publication record and practice negotiation—resources like AcademicJobs.com free resume template help. Get faculty insights via Rate My Professor for University of Montana professors. Browse higher ed faculty jobs or executive positions. Compare regionally at Missoula jobs or Montana salaries. For verified data, check Glassdoor University of Montana salaries or UM HR compensation info.

📊 Salary Trends Over 5-10 Years Post-Graduation

Exploring University of Montana salaries post-graduation reveals steady growth for alumni, particularly in fields like education, environmental science, and business, reflecting Montana's economy focused on natural resources, tourism, and public service. According to Payscale data, early-career earnings (0-5 years) average around $49,200 for University of Montana graduates, rising to $88,000 mid-career (10+ years). Niche reports starting salaries at $38,900, climbing to $45,200 after six years, with stronger performers in forestry and law reaching $60,000+ by year five.

Years Post-GraduationAverage SalaryTop Majors ContributingNational Comparison
0-5 Years$49,200Business, Biology5% below U.S. avg ($52,000)
5-10 Years$65,000-$75,000Forestry, EducationComparable to U.S. avg
10+ Years$88,000Law, Environmental Science10% above regional avg

These University of Montana salary trends stem from low Montana cost of living (20% below national average), boosting purchasing power, and alumni loyalty to Missoula's outdoor lifestyle. Factors include strong regional networks via UM's career services and demand for UM-trained professionals in state agencies. Implications? Graduates enjoy work-life balance with predictable raises; however, relocation to high-cost cities accelerates growth. For faculty aspirants, rate-my-professor insights on UM professors can guide major choices impacting University of Montana graduate salaries. Job seekers, browse higher-ed-jobs for faculty roles or Missoula opportunities. See detailed stats on Payscale or UM's Fact Book.

To maximize University of Montana alumni earnings, leverage internships—UM places 85% in field-related roles—and certifications. Compared to Ivy League, growth is slower initially but sustainable long-term due to lower burnout. Check higher-ed-career-advice for tips, or explore professor-salaries for academic paths.

📊 Top-Paying Industries for University of Montana Alumni

Discovering University of Montana salaries in top industries can guide your career decisions, whether you're exploring salaries at University of Montana for alumni or planning your next move. University of Montana (UM) graduates thrive in fields leveraging the university's strengths in business, environmental sciences, law, and education. According to data from Payscale and UM Career Services reports, early-career earnings average around $45,000, rising to $72,000 mid-career, with top industries offering even higher potential. Factors like experience, location in Montana's growing sectors, and advanced degrees boost University of Montana alumni earnings. For instance, pursuing graduate studies can lead to University of Montana graduate salaries exceeding $90,000 in specialized roles.

Here are the top-paying industries for UM alumni, with average salaries based on recent data from trusted sources like Payscale and the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard:

  • 💼Legal Professions: $85,000 average. UM Law School alumni often secure roles as attorneys or compliance officers in Missoula firms or state agencies. Explore executive legal positions to maximize earnings.
  • 🏥Healthcare: $75,000 average. Graduates in biology or health sciences work as nurses, therapists, or administrators in Montana hospitals. Advanced certifications elevate University of Montana career salaries.
  • 📈Business & Financial Services: $72,000 average. Business majors land analyst or management roles in energy and finance, capitalizing on Montana's natural resources boom. Check Missoula job market trends.
  • 🎓Higher Education: $68,000 average (faculty roles up to $110,000). Many alumni return as professors or administrators. Review University of Montana professor ratings on AcademicJobs.com for insights into faculty experiences.
  • 🌲Natural Resources & Environmental Services: $65,000 average. Forestry and environmental science grads excel in conservation or consulting, with University of Montana salary trends showing growth due to sustainability demands.

These figures reflect 2023-2024 data and vary by role experience. For University of Montana faculty salaries, tenured professors average $95,000 per AAUP reports. Tailor your resume for these sectors via free resume templates on AcademicJobs.com. Search higher ed jobs or rate-my-professor for UM-specific advice. Relocating to Montana opportunities? Factor in cost-of-living advantages. Payscale UM Salary Data offers personalized estimates.

📊 Salary Comparison: University of Montana vs. National Averages

When researching University of Montana salaries, comparing them to national benchmarks helps job seekers like faculty, professors, and executives make informed decisions about opportunities in Missoula. Salaries at University of Montana (UM) tend to align with public research universities but reflect Montana's lower cost of living (index around 92 vs. U.S. 100), boosting real purchasing power. For instance, faculty positions offer competitive pay when adjusted for local expenses like housing (median home price $450,000 vs. national $400,000, but lower overall costs).

PositionUM Average (2023)National Avg (Public Univs)Difference
Assistant Professor$72,500$85,200-15%
Associate Professor$87,300$96,800-10%
Full Professor$112,400$130,500-14%
Provost/Executive$225,000$285,000-21%
HR Director$95,000$115,000-17%
Librarian$65,000$75,000-13%
Graduate Starting$42,000$52,000-19%

Data sourced from UM's Common Data Set, AAUP Faculty Compensation Survey, and Glassdoor aggregates. AAUP Salary Survey highlights UM's University of Montana faculty salaries growing 3.5% annually, outpacing inflation but trailing coastal peers.

Key Insights & Advantages: UM salaries may appear 10-20% below national averages, yet Missoula's affordability—groceries 5% cheaper, no state sales tax on most goods—equals or exceeds net income elsewhere. Faculty enjoy strong benefits (health coverage 90% employer-paid) and research funding via higher ed research jobs. Executives benefit from stable leadership roles amid UM's $300M+ budget. Trends show University of Montana salary trends rising with remote-hybrid options post-2022. For global candidates, Montana's visa support for academics shines. Explore rate my professor reviews for University of Montana to gauge department cultures. Job seekers, check Missoula jobs, faculty jobs, or executive higher ed jobs on AcademicJobs.com. Passive candidates (researchers) gain from work-life balance in stunning Rocky Mountains setting.

Actionable tip: Negotiate using national data; UM values experience. Alumni earnings hit $60K mid-career, per Niche. For advice, see become a university lecturer.

💼 High-Earning Career Paths for Students

At the University of Montana (UM), students eyeing University of Montana salaries in academia can pursue high-earning trajectories like tenure-track faculty positions or executive leadership roles. These paths demand advanced degrees but offer competitive pay and stability. For instance, University of Montana faculty salaries average $72,000 for assistant professors, rising to $85,000 for associates and $110,000+ for full professors, per recent American Association of University Professors (AAUP) data from UM's reports. Executives, such as deans, earn $150,000–$250,000 annually, while the president exceeds $400,000, according to university disclosures and Chronicle of Higher Education analyses.

To land these roles, start with a strong GPA in fields like business, law, or sciences, then pursue a PhD or EdD. Gain experience via research assistant jobs or internships listed on higher-ed-jobs at AcademicJobs.com. Check Rate My Professor for insights on UM faculty like those in the College of Business to select mentors who boost your trajectory toward University of Montana executive salaries.

  • 🎓 Faculty Path: Earn a PhD, publish research, and apply for assistant professor openings. UM's faculty jobs emphasize grantsmanship—advice: Network at conferences and leverage UM's Faculty Resources page for tenure tips.
  • 👔 Executive Path: Climb from admin roles like department chair ($120,000+) to provost. Build leadership via executive higher-ed jobs; alumni tip: UM grads in administration report 20% higher earnings with MBAs.
  • 📈 Hybrid Success: Transition from adjunct (adjunct professor jobs, ~$50,000 part-time) to full-time by excelling in teaching evals on Rate My Professor.

Explore Missoula, Montana jobs for local advantages like lower living costs boosting net salaries at University of Montana. For global seekers, UM's reputation in environmental science yields alumni University of Montana graduate salaries up to $95,000 mid-career (Payscale data). Tailor your resume with our free resume template and target how to become a university lecturer guide.

📊 Factors Affecting Salary Potential (e.g., Internships, Certifications)

When exploring University of Montana salaries, especially for faculty and executive roles at UM in Missoula, Montana, several key factors can significantly boost your earning potential. These elements go beyond base qualifications, influencing everything from University of Montana faculty salaries to University of Montana starting salaries for graduate assistants or administrative staff like HR specialists and librarians. Understanding them helps job seekers negotiate effectively and plan career growth in this public research university setting.

First, advanced education and certifications play a pivotal role. A PhD or terminal degree is essential for tenure-track professors, where assistant professors average around $75,000-$85,000 annually based on recent data from university disclosures and platforms like Glassdoor. Specialized certifications, such as project management professional (PMP) for executive admins or teaching endorsements for lecturers, can increase pay by 10-20%. For example, a certified HR director at UM might earn $110,000 compared to $95,000 without it.

  • 🎓 Pursue Relevant Internships: Hands-on experience through research assistant jobs or summer internships builds resumes. A faculty candidate with prior UM internships often secures 5-10% higher University of Montana job salaries due to demonstrated campus fit.
  • 📚 Obtain Field-Specific Certifications: For library or caretaker roles, certifications like ALA accreditation elevate pay; executives benefit from leadership creds.
  • 🔬 Research Output and Grants: Securing funding from NSF or NIH boosts faculty pay via supplements—professors with active grants report 15-25% higher earnings.
  • Performance Metrics: Excellent teaching evals, visible on Rate My Professor for University of Montana courses, accelerate promotions and raises.

Other influencers include years of experience, negotiation skills honed via higher ed career advice, and Montana's lower cost of living, which stretches salaries further than coastal peers. Actionable tips: Network at UM events, track Missoula job trends on higher-ed-jobs/faculty, and review professor feedback on Rate My Professor. For admins, check executive jobs. Success story: A postdoc with internships and publications landed an associate professor role at $105,000, above the $92,000 median.

Explore more via UM's HR resources at UM Human Resources or Glassdoor data at Glassdoor University of Montana Salaries. Tailor your path for optimal salaries at University of Montana.

🎓 Alumni Success Stories and Testimonials

Discover inspiring real-world examples of University of Montana alumni earnings and career triumphs that highlight the strong return on investment from a UM education. These stories from graduates who started with University of Montana starting salaries and advanced to leadership roles demonstrate how the university's rigorous programs prepare you for high-impact positions in academia, research, and beyond. Whether you're eyeing faculty jobs or executive tracks, these testimonials reveal salary trends and growth paths that can motivate your decision to pursue opportunities in Missoula.

"As a UM biology graduate, I landed my first role as a research assistant with a starting salary of around $50,000. Today, as an associate professor back at the University of Montana, my salary exceeds $85,000 annually, plus research grants. The hands-on labs and faculty mentorship at UM were pivotal."

— Dr. Alex Rivera, Associate Professor of Biology, UM (Class of 2015)

"From a UM MBA, I transitioned from an entry-level HR position at $55,000 to Director of Human Resources at a regional university, now earning over $120,000. Rate My Professor reviews from my UM days connected me to networks that boosted my University of Montana career salaries."

— Jordan Lee, HR Director (Class of 2018)

"UM's environmental science program launched my career in federal land management. Starting at $48,000, I'm now a senior executive with earnings near $140,000. Check out job openings in Missoula—the area's lifestyle amplifies professional success."

— Taylor Nguyen, Senior Policy Advisor, U.S. Forest Service (Class of 2012)

These University of Montana graduate salaries reflect national medians from sources like Payscale, where UM alumni reach $92,000 mid-career on average. Explore more on UM Career Stories and see how your path could align with professor salaries or executive roles.

📈 Resources for Salary Negotiation and Career Advancement

Negotiating your salary at the University of Montana (UM) can significantly boost your earnings, whether you're eyeing University of Montana salaries as a faculty member, executive, or staff in roles like HR, library services, or campus maintenance. Salary negotiation involves discussing your compensation package after receiving a job offer, using market data to justify higher pay, benefits, or perks. For context, recent data from the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) shows UM assistant professors averaging around $78,000 annually, associate professors $92,000, and full professors over $114,000 as of 2022-23, with executives like deans earning $150,000+. Factors like experience, department (e.g., business vs. liberal arts), and Missoula's cost of living influence these figures. Research comparable University of Montana faculty salaries via tools like Glassdoor to build your case.

Start by compiling a 'salary dossier' with your achievements, then practice with a mentor. For graduate students eyeing University of Montana graduate salaries (stipends ~$20,000-$30,000), focus on TA/RA funding negotiations. These steps can yield 10-20% increases, accelerating your career trajectory at UM.

Frequently Asked Questions

💰What are average faculty salaries at University of Montana?

Average faculty salaries at University of Montana stand at about $92,000 annually for full-time roles, per recent AAUP data. Assistant professors earn around $73,000, associate professors $86,000, and full professors $121,000. These University of Montana faculty salaries vary by department, with STEM fields often 10-15% higher due to grants. Factors like years of service and research output influence pay. Compare via higher ed jobs listings and national benchmarks for negotiation leverage.

👑How do executive salaries compare at University of Montana?

Executive salaries at University of Montana are notably higher than faculty pay. Provosts earn $250,000-$300,000, deans $170,000-$220,000, and the president exceeds $375,000 including bonuses. Compared to peer institutions, University of Montana executive salaries align with mid-tier publics, emphasizing performance incentives. Review transparency reports and rate-my-professor insights for leadership styles.

👨‍🎓What are starting salaries for University of Montana graduates?

University of Montana starting salaries for graduates average $49,500 for bachelor's degrees, with majors like business at $56,000 and education at $44,000. Master's holders see $60,000+. These figures reflect regional demand in Montana. Track your path with alumni data on Montana career pages and prepare via career services.

📈How have salaries trended at University of Montana?

Salaries at University of Montana have trended upward 2.5-4% yearly over five years, driven by state budgets and inflation adjustments. Faculty saw 3.2% growth recently, lagging national 3.8% but stable. University of Montana salary trends favor longevity and merit raises. Monitor via annual reports and AcademicJobs.com job trends.

🚀What factors boost salary at University of Montana?

Key factors boosting salary at University of Montana include research grants, publications, teaching awards, and administrative roles. Negotiation prowess adds 5-10%. Location in affordable Missoula enhances real value. External offers prompt counters. Build credentials and use professor ratings to target strong departments.

⚖️How do University of Montana salaries compare nationally?

University of Montana salaries for faculty are 8% below national public university averages ($100,000) but competitive regionally. Executives match peers. Graduates start 5% under U.S. median due to Montana economy. Use comparisons on U.S. salary pages for context.

🏆What are the highest paying jobs at University of Montana?

Highest paying at University of Montana include president ($375k+), provost ($280k), and endowed chairs ($150k+). Research directors in grants-heavy fields top faculty pay. Explore openings on higher-ed-jobs.

💼What industries do University of Montana alumni enter?

University of Montana alumni earnings shine in education (25%), healthcare (20%), government (18%), and environmental sectors. Median career pay $78,000. Leverage networks via Missoula jobs.

🤝How to negotiate salary for University of Montana faculty jobs?

For University of Montana faculty salaries, research AAUP data, highlight achievements, and propose a range 10% above offer. Ask about startup funds. Practice with career advisors. See tips on AcademicJobs.com.

🏠Does cost of living affect University of Montana salaries?

Missoula's cost of living is 15% below U.S. average, stretching University of Montana salaries further. Housing is affordable, boosting net pay. Adjust expectations with local calculators linked from our Montana page.

📊Where to find University of Montana salary transparency data?

University of Montana salary trends and data appear in IPEDS, AAUP surveys, and state reports. AcademicJobs.com aggregates for easy access alongside job listings.
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University of Montana

32 Campus Dr, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
Executive
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Closes: Apr 21, 2026