How much does a college teaching aide make?

In the U.S., pay differs by location and workplace: BLS figures show different earnings across states and types of schools. The size of a graduate assistantship appointment also matters, since universities set pay by appointment level.

Assist faculty or other instructional staff in postsecondary institutions by performing instructional support activities, such as developing teaching materials, leading discussion groups, preparing and giving examinations, and grading examinations or papers. Graduate students who teach one or more full courses should be classified in the 25-1000 minor group.

What's a typical day like?

They prepare class materials, lead a small discussion or lab, and help students understand the lesson. Later, they grade papers and hold office hours to answer students’ questions.

In the U.S., earn a bachelor’s degree in your subject, then enroll in a graduate program and apply for a college TA position. Graduate TAs need to stay enrolled and have a bachelor’s degree in the field they support.

Graduate degree or long training (preparation level 5 of 5)

Good for people who like helping and teaching and keeping things organized.

In the U.S., a graduate student who teaches a whole college course is counted as a postsecondary teacher—not a teaching assistant.