In addition, several college units have extramural funds to employ graduate assistants. For a research assistant, enroll for at least 9 graduate credits per semester or 5 during the summer. For a graduate assistant enroll for at least 4 graduate credits per semester or 3 during the summer. We recommend that graduate assistants limit their maximum course loads to 9 credits a semester. We award assistantships on a competitive basis through departments to students admitted to a graduate program.
Departments normally screen applications in the spring for fall appointment.
Contact your department graduate coordinator for the criteria used to select graduate assistants. If you are selected for an assistantship, you will enter into a contract with the university. The contract includes a description of the position offered, stipend, and length of employment. Discuss the specific nature of your responsibilities as a graduate assistant with your immediate supervisor at the beginning of your appointment. As a graduate assistant you are normally required to be on campus for the same work periods as faculty.