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Arizona State University

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A fetid swamp of academia - Lecturer Arizona State University Employee Review

1.0
22 Feb 2023
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The major reason that attracts people to work at ASU is the opportunities and lifestyle of the Phoenix and SE Arizona area. The facilities and resources of the university, if accessible, provide opportunities for research. Ultimately, the only real benefit of working here is the appreciation received by the few students that realize your contribution to their success in their education.

Cons

The pay here is way below average (considered poverty level) in comparison to most academic institutions. They've known this for years and fail to improve the situation. There is dishonesty and prejudice to be experienced from all levels of administration--Chair, Dean, and President level. They may overwork you by twisting your contract to mean whatever they want it to mean; for example, if you are hired to teach 12 credits as part of your contract, they may choose to interpret this to mean that you will teach up to 12 different 1-credit classes if they wish it. There are practically no protections of due process written in to their policies, especially if you are in a position rank lower than Assistant Professor. False accusations are often taken at face value, from students, faculty, or administrators. One of the worst places to suffer from cancel culture. Many employees just simply "keep their heads down" in compliance and discouragement to report grievances. This is a revolving door of limited opportunity. There is a reason many competent and caring educators--lecturers and instructional assistants--have left before in droves and continue to leave to better places.

Explore other reviews about Arizona State University

5.0
30 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Good research environment and great teachers

Cons

Long hours working on research

2.0
29 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Competitive pay for some positions, some great colleagues.

Cons

The "culture" in some non academic departments is incredibly toxic. Employees often see others as competitors and some will try to throw others under the bus to avoid being in trouble from senior leaders. It is slow to get any work done if you need upper admin approval and often time work that you have created and completed is thrown away and never looked at again. Personalities of some administrators is very fake and friendly, when they will cut you with no regard or thoughts. The senior administrators of ASU act in a cult like manner and tightly control many goals, works, etc. You will most often have little to no freedom to accomplish the goals that you know would be best for your department because you spend an inordinate amount of time on projects deemed important to senior leaders, that have little to no impact but padding a report for someone in Fulton. Culture is extremely toxic in many areas, and senior leaders refuse to listen to those serving and trying to provide feedback. There is heavy turnover in many areas, while adminstrators turn a blind eye to it and chalk it up to "normal" turnover. Many mid level managers end up sick, stressed, seeking new employment, or taking FMLA to try to deal with the stress and trauma. You will have little opportunity for advancement unless you move departments regularly, or by hunkering down to be a lackey. Routinely expect last minute requirements and expectations, budget cuts without notice, and little to no professional development or support. Depending on the area you may also deal with difficult students/parents who are not held accountable for their actions.

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