According to the Chronicle of Higher Education's 2026 survey, the average salary for engineering deans at small institutions is $143,000, while those at medium-sized institutions earn an average of $173,000, and large institutions pay an average of $213,000.
A new report from Inside Higher Ed reveals that engineering deans at public institutions tend to earn higher salaries than their private institution counterparts, with average salaries ranging from $125,000 at small public institutions to $225,000 at large public institutions.
The American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) conducted a survey of engineering deans' salaries, which found that the average salary for engineering deans at doctoral-granting institutions is $192,000, while those at master's-granting institutions earn an average of $143,000.
This online tool allows users to estimate the average salary for engineering deans based on institution size, type, and location, providing a range of $120,000 to $250,000 depending on the specific criteria.
A recent report from NASA's Office of STEM Engagement highlights trends in engineering dean salaries, including a 10% increase in average salaries over the past five years, with large research institutions tend to pay the highest salaries, averaging over $220,000.
This EDUCAUSE report explores the role of engineering deans in higher education, including their compensation, which averages $180,000 according to the report, with variations depending on institution size, type, and location.
Glassdoor's salary comparison tool reveals that engineering deans at top-ranked universities tend to earn higher salaries, with averages ranging from $200,000 at Stanford University to $150,000 at smaller institutions.
This upcoming webinar from Academic Impressions will discuss the latest trends in engineering dean salaries, including average salaries by institution size, and feature expert panelists from top engineering schools, providing insights into the current state of engineering dean compensation.