What is the difference between Graduate Teaching Assistant vs Teaching Fellow?

Career: Graduate Teaching Assistant

AspectGraduate Teaching AssistantTeaching Fellow
Required CredentialsEnrolled graduate student, often pursuing a master's or PhDTypically a graduate student or recent graduate with relevant academic background
Work EnvironmentAssisting professors in undergraduate classes, grading, tutoringLeading or co-teaching courses, delivering lectures, developing curriculum
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic institutionsUniversities, colleges, academic institutions

While both roles involve supporting higher education, Graduate Teaching Assistants primarily assist with grading and student support, whereas Teaching Fellows often take on more teaching responsibilities, including leading classes. Both positions are common in academic settings and require graduate-level credentials.