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Availability of Opportunities
Opportunities for PhD Scholarships and Fellowships are normally available at the time of admission into the PhD Program.
The number of awards made each year may vary depending on the availability of funds.
Awards
PhD Scholarships and Fellowships are awarded for a total period not to exceed four years provided the recipient
continues to meet the eligibility criteria of the award, and subject to availability of funds. A student may request one
extension for up to two semesters, with documented justification.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate Assistants are typically full-time graduate students (Master and Doctorate levels) who participate in teaching,
research, or administrative activities in exchange for financial support at the University.
Graduate Assistantships may be awarded to graduate students who, based on their credentials, are deemed likely
to be highly successful as students and are also assessed as being capable of contributing to research, teaching, or
service for the university.
Graduate Assistantships contribute to student professional development with the primary purpose of assisting students
in the successful completion of their academic program. Activities incorporated in the work of a Graduate Assistant
should therefore be relevant to the student’s program of study as well as contributing to the University’s teaching,
research/creative activity, or service efforts. The department/unit providing the assistantship determines the nature and
scope of the Assistantship assignment.
The University provides medical insurance for Graduate Assistants if they do not have coverage already, and pays them
a monthly stipend, which is stipulated in the award of the Assistantship.
Each Assistant should have a specific ‘Contract’ and Job Description, and a clear reporting line within the Department/
Unit. The supervisor is expected to provide the Graduate Assistant with periodic oral and written assessment and
feedback regarding performance.
Eligibility for and requirements of Graduate Assistantships
• Candidates who are first-time graduate students should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 or
equivalent, in the Bachelor degree.
• Other candidates should carry a minimum of 6 earned graduate credits and must have a minimum cumulative GPA
of 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0) or equivalent in their graduate studies.