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How much do graduate assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate assistant in Tennessee is $17.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a graduate assistant?

To become a graduate assistant, typically you need to be enrolled in a graduate program and apply through your university's department or graduate school. The application process often involves submitting a resume, academic transcripts, and sometimes letters of recommendation, and may require an interview. Relevant skills include strong communication, time management, and familiarity with the field of study or department where the assistantship is offered.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Assistant, you generally need strong academic credentials in your field, research and analytical skills, and enrollment in a graduate program. Familiarity with educational technology platforms, data analysis tools, or laboratory equipment (depending on the discipline) is often required. Excellent communication, time management, and teamwork skills help you effectively support faculty and collaborate with students. These skills are vital for balancing multiple responsibilities while contributing to academic and research excellence.

What is the role of a graduate assistant?

A graduate assistant is a student enrolled in a graduate program who works part-time at their university, assisting with research, teaching, or administrative tasks. They often gain experience related to their field and may receive a stipend or tuition waiver as compensation.

Is being a GA worth it?

A graduate assistant (GA) position typically offers valuable experience, professional development, and sometimes a tuition waiver or stipend. However, it often involves a significant time commitment and balancing work with academic responsibilities, so its worth depends on individual career goals and workload capacity.

What is the difference between Graduate Assistant vs Research Assistant?

AspectGraduate AssistantResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsEnrolled graduate student, often with a relevant degreeUndergraduate or graduate student, sometimes with specific research experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic settings, assisting in teaching or administrative tasksResearch labs, projects, or fieldwork within academic or research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic departmentsResearch institutions, universities, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsClarifying research duties and experience needed

While both roles support academic and research activities, a Graduate Assistant typically assists with teaching or administrative tasks while pursuing a graduate degree. A Research Assistant focuses primarily on conducting research projects, often requiring specific research skills. The roles often overlap in academic settings, but their main focus and responsibilities differ.

What are Graduate Assistants?

Graduate Assistants (GAs) are graduate students who work part-time at a college or university, typically assisting faculty or departments with teaching, research, or administrative tasks. These positions often provide a stipend and/or tuition waiver in exchange for their work. Graduate Assistants gain valuable professional experience while pursuing their advanced degrees, and their responsibilities can vary widely depending on the department and the specific assistantship. Common duties include helping with classroom instruction, grading assignments, conducting research, or supporting university operations.

What are some common challenges Graduate Assistants face when balancing academic work with assistantship responsibilities?

Graduate Assistants often juggle coursework, research, and their assistantship duties, which can include teaching, grading, or administrative tasks. Time management is a frequent challenge, as deadlines for academic work and assistantship responsibilities can sometimes overlap. Setting clear expectations with supervisors, prioritizing tasks, and using organizational tools can help maintain a healthy balance. Open communication with faculty and peers also plays a crucial role in managing workload and reducing stress.

How much is a graduate assistant paid?

Graduate assistants typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, depending on the institution, location, and level of experience. Many positions also include tuition waivers or stipends as part of the compensation package. Salaries can vary based on the workload and specific department requirements.

What Is the Job of a Graduate Assistant?

The job of a graduate assistant is to perform research, teach, or work at a university as part of their academic education. Graduate assistants are typically doctoral candidates, but some master’s students may also qualify to work in this position. Your duties in this career differ depending on your role and the level of class at which you assist. For example, many large lecture classes need graders, readers, and teaching assistants, all with separate responsibilities. On the other hand, if you work in labs or departmental offices, you may work as a full-time researcher.

More about Graduate Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Graduate jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Assistant jobs in Tennessee? For Graduate Assistant jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Assistant jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Assistant jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Graduate Assistant jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Graduate Assistant job openings:
Graduate Assistant jobs near you
Graduate Assistant, Exercise & Sport Science

Graduate Assistant, Exercise & Sport Science

CUMBERLAND UNIVERSITY

Lebanon, TN

Other

Posted yesterday

Job description

Graduate Assistant, Exercise & Sport Science
Jeanette C. Rudy School of Nursing & Health Professions


Job Details
Level: Entry
Job Location: Cumberland University, Lebanon, TN
Travel Percentage: None
Job Shift: Part-time (20 hours per week)
Position Type: Graduate Assistant
Job Category: Education
Education Level: Bachelor’s Degree

Description
Position Title: Graduate Assistant, Exercise & Sport Science
Hours Per Week: 20
Supervisor: Program Directors in Exercise &Sport Science & Master’s of Sport & Exercise Science
Compensation: Tuition Waiver
Posting Date: June 27, 2025
Closing Date: Open until filled
Starting Date: August 15, 2025
Job Type: Part-time
Internal Job Category: Graduate Assistant
Position Overview: The Jeanette C. Rudy School of Nursing & Health Professions is seeking a personable and highly motivated Graduate Assistant to work 20 hours each week primarily assisting with various operations and projects that are specific to the Bachelor’s of Exercise & Sport Science (EXSS) & Master’s of Sport & Exercise Science (MSES) programs.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assist Program Director(s) in maintaining lab spaces and equipment.
  • Contribute to scholarly activities that align with mission of the EXSS & MSES programs.
  • Assist with recruiting and outreach events.
  • Serve as a liaison between students and advisors throughout EXSS & MSES programs.
  • Other duties as assigned at the discretion of Program Directors.

DESIRED SKILLS

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills
  • Record keeping and reporting skills
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office programs (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
  • Basic data analysis skills
  • Strong attention to detail and strong work ethic

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must have a 3.0 or above overall GPA
  • Must be enrolled in a graduate program at Cumberland University
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office programs (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
  • Must possess a high level of discretion

ANTICIPATED START DATE

  • August 15, 2025

COMPENSATION

  • Full tuition waiver (no stipend, housing, books or fees)
  • Professional growth opportunities

HOURS

  • Required 20 hours a week

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

  • A completed application for the Graduate Assistant position should include:
    • Cover letter including your interest in the GA position and your qualifications
    • Resume (Employment background, educational background - GPA included)
    • Minimum of 3 professional references (contact information only)

For more information about Cumberland University, click the link below…
https://www.cumberland.edu/about/

For more information:
Jason Grindstaff, Interim Dean, Rudy School of Nursing & Health Professions
jgrindstaff@cumberland.edu
615-547-1381

Apply