COACHE Faculty Job Satisfaction Survey

VCU is committed to cultivating a campus environment where faculty thrive. In pursuit of that goal, VCU participated in  the COACHE Faculty Job Satisfaction Survey. The Faculty Job Satisfaction Survey, administered by the Collaborative on Academic Careers in Higher Education (COACHE) at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, is a rigorous and research-based survey designed to help universities meet the needs of their faculty and improve faculty life. 

The Faculty Job Satisfaction Survey has been administered at hundreds of universities, and the results include benchmarking against peer institutions. The survey provides key insights about faculty experiences in the academic workplace, perceptions of their working conditions, and opportunities for improvement. VCU's implementation of the COACHE Faculty Job Satisfaction Survey is guided by a diverse committee of VCU stakeholders who will ensure the process and resulting recommendations are meaningful for all VCU faculty.

Peer Institutions

Florida International University
University of Arizona
University of Central Florida
University of South Carolina
University of Virginia

10 Things to Know About COACHE 2025

1. The data were collected by COACHE at Harvard University. VCU did not administer the survey or gather the responses.
2. All analyses were conducted by COACHE. VCU did not manipulate or interpret the raw data.
3. The report was provided to VCU by COACHE. It reflects Harvard’s independent analysis of VCU faculty responses.
4. VCU’s results are benchmarked against 85 peer institutions. This comparative lens helps us understand where we lead and where we can grow.
5. The report is available online. Faculty are encouraged to explore the findings and follow ongoing updates via the provost’s blog and here on the COACHE website.
6. We are committed to transparent sharing. All communications adhere to our IRB protocol and COACHE’s data-sharing agreement.
7. The raw survey data are protected under strict confidentiality. As part of our partnership with COACHE, VCU agreed to data-sharing and IRB protocols that prohibit distribution of the raw data. These safeguards ensure respondent privacy and uphold the integrity of the research.
8. A faculty-accessible dashboard is in development. Launching in spring 2026, it will allow tailored exploration of results by role and unit.
9. The COACHE Steering Committee meets regularly. Member responsibilities include interpreting the findings and identifying actionable opportunities.
10. Faculty voices are shaping the path forward. Your feedback is guiding recommendations, initiatives, and institutional priorities.