A Teaching Assistantship (MS) at Carleton University provides employment-based funding to full-time graduate students, including Doctoral students. The university offers this opportunity to support students financially while they complete their degrees. When students apply for admission to a graduate program, the university automatically considers them for a TA position. If they qualify, the university includes the TA award in the official Offer of Admission and Funding. Therefore, students do not need to submit a separate initial application for consideration.
Background and Purpose
Carleton University established the TA program to strengthen teaching and support academic departments. The university enables graduate students to gain teaching experience while earning financial support. Consequently, TAs assist faculty members in delivering high-quality instruction. They may lead labs or tutorials, help prepare lectures, supervise study groups, and mark assignments and tests. In addition, departments assign duties based on academic needs and the TA’s experience. Through this structure, the university ensures both academic support and professional development.
Carleton University Teaching Assistantship Benefits
The TA functions as paid employment rather than a traditional scholarship. TAs work under a collective agreement with CUPE 4600, Unit 1. Typically, they work up to 10 hours per week during the academic term. TA positions usually provide funding valued at more than CAD 10,000 per year, although the exact amount varies according to the collective agreement and departmental practices. As a result, students receive meaningful financial assistance while gaining teaching experience.
Eligibility Criteria
Students must enroll full-time in a graduate program. They must also meet a minimum GPA requirement of 10.0 on Carleton’s grading scale. In addition, they must demonstrate English-language proficiency. Doctoral students may receive one TA position per eligible term. However, continuation of funding depends on satisfactory job performance, active enrolment status, and departmental needs.
Carleton University Teaching Assistantship Application Process
The university automatically considers applicants for TA funding during the admission process. If the funding package does not include a TA award, students may still apply as an Outside Priority TA through Carleton’s TA Management system. Departments then review applications and assign positions based on availability and qualifications.
Opportunities for Scholars
A TA position allows students to develop teaching, communication, and leadership skills. Moreover, it strengthens academic profiles and prepares students for future academic or professional careers.