PhD Funding

PhD students in traditional (non-professional) programs are supported through Teaching Assistantships (TAs) or Research Assistantships (RAs). These appointments include a stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance.

Stipends

TA stipends are about $20,000 prior to advancement to candidacy (passing the qualifying exam) and approximately $25,000 afterward.

RA stipends vary by funding source, with minimum levels comparable to TA stipends and higher levels in some cases reaching approximately $35,000.

Sources of support

TA support is contingent on the availability of positions within the student's department, and RA support depends on research funding provided by the student's PhD advisor. Students must secure a PhD advisor prior to beginning their studies, as the advisor determines the availability and type of funding support (TA and/or RA).