Graduate Assistantships

Graduate assistantships offer degree-related experience and financial support for graduate students enrolled in the Student Development Administration (SDA) program. These experiences are often an important factor when applying for positions after graduation.

Eligibility

Admitted to a graduate program at Seattle University
Make satisfactory progress toward your degree during the assistantship
Take an average of 6 credits per quarter to complete the program in two years, but more or less can be taken depending on the student’s progress through the program
Apply by December 1 for a graduate assistantship as part of your graduate admissions application

Terms of Employment

Most annual contracts run from mid-August to mid-June
Intention is for the student to remain in the position for two academic years
Second year students may apply
Admission into the graduate program does not guarantee an assistantship

Student Development Administration - College of Education

The Master's degree in Student Development Administration is designed for those who want to work with college students outside of the formal classroom. Creative educators are needed in all post-secondary institutions throughout the United States and increasingly in other countries. Nationally recognized for its "education of the whole person," this program fosters understanding student diversity, ethics and values, and the ability to adapt to specific educational environments.

If you have questions about the admissions application process, please contact us at sda@seattleu.edu or (206) 296-5759.

Timeline	Event
December 1	Deadline for SDA admissions and graduate assistantship applications
Late January	Applicants receive notification of admission
February 18-19 & February 25-26	Preview Days for graduate assistantship interviews (attend one session)
Mid March	Applicants receive hiring offers
Mid May	Contracts and new hire paperwork
Mid August	Mandatory orientation for graduate assistants

Please contact Collin Nail at nailc@seattleu.edu or (206) 296-2525 with questions regarding the graduate assistantship program.

Graduate Assistantship Application Process

The Application: Complete your Seattle University graduate admissions application by the priority deadline of December 1.

Indicate that you are interested in applying for the GA program in your application.

You will receive a prompt asking for a cover letter, which is separate from the letter of intent or any other SDA application materials.

Prompt: In relation to Seattle University's educational mission and values, (a) share your current work history and leadership experience, and (b) describe which specific departments and/or areas in student development you are most interested in learning about through an assistantship and why.

You will also be asked to submit the names and contact information for three references. They can be the same as or different from those you included in your SDA admissions application. If possible, however, references should be able to speak to your professional experience and skills.
The Selection Process: GA supervisors will review materials after admissions decisions have been released. Admitted students will receive an invitation to one of two Preview Days sessions along with an interview schedule. Conference-style interviews take place on the second day of Preview Days. Interviews are 25-30 minutes each and candidates are offered an average of 3-5 interviews.
Compensation: Graduate Assistants are compensated at a rate of $21.67 per hour and work an average of 20 hours per week. Total earnings for the year may not exceed $15,605 before taxes (total earnings limits are adjusted for 12-month positions). GAs who work in Housing and Residence Life also receive a single on-campus apartment and meal plan. Graduate Assistants are paid semi-monthly on the 10th and 25th day of the month by direct deposit. Earnings can be used to fund tuition, books, fees, living expenses, or for other purposes at the student’s discretion. Additional details will be provided during the interview and hiring process.

Graduate Assistants do not receive tuition remission and are not eligible for the employee tuition benefits program.