Department of Mechanical Engineering

Graduate Student Assistantships

A number of Teaching Assistant (TA) and Research Assistant (RA) positions are available in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. In order to qualify for these positions the student must apply and be admitted to the Ph.D. program. The department typically recruits 20-30 Ph.D. students annually with guaranteed assistantships, which include a tuition waiver. Occasionally MS students are supported with research assistantship while such an opportunity needs to be sought by the students from individual faculty members. There is no funding offered as part of MS admissions.

TAs and RAs are typically set at a 50% appointment during the fall and spring semesters. RAs may be paid during the summer at a greater appointment – the percentage appointment is decided upon by the faculty member providing the research assistantship. The annual stipend thus ranges from $15,435 to $25,725 (based on AY 07-08 rates) depending on the amount of summer RA support.

TA and RA expectations:
The full calendar-year appointment is meant to be for the equivalent of a full-time position working toward the degree. Thus, the appointment continues directly through all University break periods such as Winter break, Spring break, and pre- and post-summer breaks, and the Department expects students to be at work on research or courses and making progress toward the degree at all of those times unless a leave-without-pay break is taken. Students are entitled to the equivalent of two weeks vacation per year with pay. Any time off must be taken with full knowledge and approval of the student’s advisor. Students may not have additional employment while receiving the standard stipend from the Department, except in special circumstances with written approval by the Department Chair and the research advisor. TA and RA students working in a laboratory environment must fulfill all University of Colorado requirements for lab work as described below.

Additional Mechanisms of Employment

In addition to or in lieu of assistanships, graduate students can be employed by the University of Colorado through multiple routes. Additional information can be found at the Graduate School website, http://www.colorado.edu/prospective/graduate/finances/assistance.html

Fellowships All applicants are strongly encouraged to apply for national fellowships (NSF, NIH, etc.). A detailed list of national fellowships is provided here.

Graders are assigned by the Graduate Committee to classes which require additional grading support. Graders are generally assigned to a maximum number of hours per week during the semester and paid hourly. This type of position does not cover tuition or any other expenses. Graders performing lab work must fulfill all University of Colorado requirements for lab work as described below.

Independent Study can be performed for graduate credit but not for pay. This is a position where you work with a faculty member to complete a research project and receive a grade at the completion of the project. Independent study students working in a laboratory environment must fulfill all University of Colorado requirements for lab work as described below.

Financial Aid can provide an alternative means of support. Please see the FAQ page for further information.