Financial Assistance

Financial assistance in the form of a research assistantship, a teaching assistantship or a fellowship is normally provided for each graduate student admitted to the department, unless the student is self-supporting or is advised in advance that funding is not available.

Research assistants are supported by research projects within the department and they conduct the research associated with their thesis/dissertation. The majority of the students in the department are supported by research assistantships.

Teaching assistants assist the instructor of a course with tasks such as grading and conducting problem sessions. Teaching assistantships provide valuable experience for students who believe they will seek an academic position upon graduation and for students preparing for the comprehensive examination.

Fellowships are available for outstanding students. Students with fellowships have more freedom to choose their advisor and research topics and such awards give the student added prestige and flexibility. Stipends are competitive with those offered by other universities.

In addition to their normal stipend, a few exceptional students are chosen to receive a supplemental Dean's Fellowship of $2,000 annually.