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Graduate Assistantships

The academic requirements for graduate student assistantships shall be the same as for other graduate students, namely a 3.0 overall or a 3.25 (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) for the last 60 semester hours of undergraduate work.

Students must be admitted to a graduate degree program and enrolled as a full-time student to be considered for an assistantship.

Appointments

Graduate assistantship appointments are for 10 or 20 hours per week. Twenty hours per week is considered a full-time appointment. See the Graduate School's Graduate Assistant Handbook for policies related to working outside the University while holding a GA position.

Assignment

Work assignments should be such that the student's formal degree work is enhanced. Master's degree students, if assigned to instructional responsibilities, must be supervised by regular faculty members. Graduate teaching assistants (TAs) must have their oral English language proficiency certified by the department chairperson prior to instructional assignment.

If graduate assistants have concerns regarding their hours or duties, they should discuss the matter with either the graduate coordinator, the department chairperson, or both.

Academic Load

The ideal academic load for graduate assistants is 9 hours. Any graduate assistant wishing to take less than or more than the 9 hours must have a written recommendation by the graduate advisor, which is approved by the Director of the Graduate School prior to registration.

Expectations

  • Behave professionally at all times as you work with your assigned mentor. That individual is your supervisor and is in charge of your assistantship activities.
  • Be available for at least the number of scheduled hours per week stated in your contract.
  • Attend departmental graduate assistants' meetings when they are called.
  • Assist with administration of faculty course evaluations and other duties as assigned by the department.
  • Maintain a 3.25 overall GPA.