Graduate Assistantships

The College of Engineering offers a limited number of graduate assistantship awards each academic year that are either teaching or research related. All Ph.D. applicants are automatically considered for an award based on their overall program application. Master’s students in the College are self-funded and scholarships are unavailable.

Applicants to a doctoral program should know that to secure an award is highly competitive and may require identifying a faculty advisor during the application process. Contact the graduate program director if you require assistance while applying and review the list of frequently asked questions (FAQ).

New students who receive an assistantship award are notified during the admissions process, often before the formal offer of admission is issued. Continuing students are eligible for new or renewed assistantship awards each year in accordance with university and departmental policies. Assistantships are awarded based on academic performance and adhere to policies and procedures outlined in the VCU Bulletin. Students awarded a graduate assistantship are advised to review these policies and procedures regularly to ensure ongoing compliance.

Assistantships in the College are typically issued for a full 12-month period in relation to the academic year. These awards cover standard full-time tuition, mandatory fees, and offer a competitive stipend. Partial assistantships, such as for a single semester, may also be awarded based on departmental need or other circumstances.