Salaries at Western

At Western Colorado University, located in Gunnison, Colorado, salary expectations for faculty and staff are typically determined by a combination of role, academic rank, years of experience, and field of expertise. Salaries often vary significantly between academic disciplines, with fields like business and STEM generally commanding higher compensation due to market demand. Administrative roles are influenced by the scope of responsibility and seniority. While Western Colorado University does not widely publish transparent salary bands or detailed compensation data in the public domain, some information may be accessible through state-level public employee salary databases or university reports, as it is a public institution. Prospective employees are encouraged to consult with the university’s human resources department for specific salary details during the hiring process.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is approximately $50,000–$60,000 USD per year, depending on the department and prior teaching or research experience. Entry-level roles may start at the lower end of this spectrum.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is around $60,000–$75,000 USD annually, often reflecting tenure status and additional research or administrative responsibilities.
• Full Professor: Salaries generally fall between $75,000–$90,000 USD per year, with higher earnings possible for those with significant research funding or leadership roles within the university.
• Academic Advisor: Typical range is $40,000–$50,000 USD per year, influenced by experience and the number of students advised.
• Department Chair: Salaries often range from $80,000–$100,000 USD annually, with additional stipends or bonuses for administrative duties.

Salaries at Western Colorado University are generally competitive within the context of small, public liberal arts institutions in the Rocky Mountain region. As a public university, compensation often aligns with state benchmarks for higher education roles, though it may lag behind larger research universities or private institutions. Salary progression typically depends on tenure, performance evaluations, and budget availability, with periodic adjustments based on cost-of-living increases or state funding. For those considering a career at Western Colorado University, it’s worth noting that while base salaries may be moderate, the university’s location offers a unique quality of life that can be a significant draw for many employees.