Salaries at OU

At the University of Oklahoma, located in Norman, Oklahoma, salary expectations for faculty and staff are typically determined by a combination of role, academic rank, experience, and field of expertise. Salaries often vary significantly between disciplines, with higher compensation in fields like engineering, medicine, and law compared to humanities or social sciences. The university operates within a public sector framework, and as such, salary structures are influenced by state funding and budgetary constraints. While the University of Oklahoma does provide some transparency through public records and state employee salary databases, specific salary bands for each role or rank are not always officially published on the university’s website. Employees and prospective hires may need to consult public data or negotiate based on individual qualifications and market standards.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is $60,000–$80,000 USD per year, depending on the department and research expectations. Entry-level roles may start lower, with potential increases based on tenure track progression.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is $80,000–$100,000 USD annually, often reflecting mid-career status, publication records, and teaching responsibilities.
• Full Professor: Salaries typically range from $100,000–$150,000 USD per year, with higher earnings for those with significant research funding, endowed chairs, or administrative duties.
• Administrative Staff (e.g., Program Coordinator): Salaries generally fall between $40,000–$60,000 USD per year, influenced by seniority and scope of responsibilities.
• Department Chair: Compensation often ranges from $120,000–$180,000 USD annually, including stipends for leadership roles and additional bonuses in some cases.

Salaries at the University of Oklahoma are generally competitive within the context of public universities in the region, though they may lag behind private institutions or those in higher-cost states. Progression in academic roles often depends on achieving tenure, securing grants, or taking on administrative responsibilities, which can significantly boost earnings over time. As a public institution, salary benchmarks are often aligned with state guidelines, and periodic adjustments may occur based on legislative funding decisions. For the most accurate and up-to-date figures, individuals are encouraged to refer to public salary databases or consult directly with the university’s human resources department, as specific compensation details can vary widely based on individual circumstances and departmental budgets.