Undergraduate Teaching Assistant (UTA) Position

What is the Undergraduate Teaching Assistant (UTA) program?

Undergraduate Teaching Assistants (UTAs) are highly qualified undergraduate students who are given an opportunity to teach in a Program in Biology course.  UTAs are responsible for leading discussion sections or labs and participating in all aspects of the teaching process.  UTAs are usually assigned one section to teach and can receive credit or a stipend for the semester, depending on their previous teaching experience.  UTAs benefit from the experience by deepening their understanding of biology concepts and the process of science, while gaining valuable leadership experience and improving their confidence.

How are students chosen as UTAs?

UTAs are selected for designated fall and winter term courses, and applications are accepted twice per year (in November for winter term and in April for fall).  Courses requiring UTA support vary by term. Historically, UTAs are traditionally placed in BIO 171, BIO 172, BIO 173, and BIO 192. Applicants should be Juniors or Seniors with a 3.3 GPA or better. Offers will be made on a rolling basis, generally beginning in May for the Fall term and December for the Winter term. All applicants are notified once all positions have been filled. 

How are UTAs compensated?

UTAs may elect to receive college (non-concentration) credit for their participation and will register for a credit-based course (EEB 302 or MCDB 412) led by the instructor of the course they will be teaching. UTAs may also choose to receive a pay rate of $29/hour (up to 10 hours per week).  Some UTAs may be encouraged or required to participate in a pedagogy course or courses specifically geared toward UTAs (as available). 

What do UTAs do?

UTA duties include attending lectures and weekly prep sessions or meetings.  UTAs may run a discussion or lab section (administering quizzes, leading discussions/labs, etc.) and may be involved in grading quizzes, reports, and/or exam questions.  UTAs are supervised by the instructor, coordinator, and/or graduate student mentor of the course. 

To whom should I direct questions about the UTA program?

The point of contact for the program is the Student Administrative Services Manager, Lindsay Stefanski, in the Program in Biology Undergraduate Services Office.

For undergraduate students who wish to apply, complete the application survey and submit materials here: UTA Application.