Selection for a GAship in research is based on upon the student's relevant training and experience, as determined by the faculty member supervising the research project. MA students are eligible for a maximum of four semesters of tuition waivers. An MA student may receive a tuition waiver during the first semester of study, but is not likely to be hired as a GA or lecturer during the first semester. The Department strives to support PhD students with GAships or lectureships with tuition waivers for three years, but this support cannot be guaranteed. To date, it has been highly successful in maintaining such support, in most cases for much longer periods.
Support depends on the availability of funding and the student's abilities and performance.
As stated above, students are encouraged to seek alternative sources of funding as well. After three years of departmental support, the student is lower in eligibility for funding, but depending on departmental needs, it is possible to hire PhD students as GAs for up to eight semesters, or as a lecturer at any time. Lectureship availability depends on departmental needs and funding, and can be offered during the academic year or Summer Session. Selection processes for both teaching and research positions, as well as tuition waivers, are as described above. The faculty and the Course Scheduling Committee determine the courses that will be offered each semester.