Graduate assistants perform teaching, laboratory work, or research of a character that affords useful academic experience while permitting a full academic schedule of courses.

Teaching Assistantships

A full Teaching Assistantship usually requires 12 or 15 hours per week to be devoted to teaching and to the related activities of class preparation, grading, and consulting with students.

Programs such the Caltech Project for Effective Teaching (CPET) provide a valuable resource for students interested in learning more about effective teaching styles and pedagogical techniques. In addition, to workshops and seminars, CPET also prepare the TA Handbook, and assists with the facilitation of course evaluations.

Research Assistantships

Research assistantships typically involve 15 to 20 hours per week during the academic year, but can be more during the summer. Caltech graduate students often receive a combination of teaching and research assistantships.