Graduate Financial Support
Financial Aid and Student Loans
Information about financial aid and student loans is available through the financial aid office.
Department Graduate Assistantships (GA)
The department of Geography and Earth Science is able to provide financial support to several graduate students each semester and a few graduate students during the summer in the form of graduate assistantships. The number of supported students fluctuates depending on administrative financial considerations as well as the availability of funds from faculty sponsored, externally funded research projects. GA's are for full time students and provide a full tuition waiver as well as an hourly wage for up to 250 hours per semester (150 hours during the summer). GA's will also be given communal office space. In return for financial aid, GA's will assist faculty and staff in a variety of capacities. The specific duties will depend on faculty and department needs but may include assisting faculty members with field or library research, field trips, grading, or lab preparation and implementation. Assuming satisfactory performance, GA positions are for four semesters (not including summers).
GA positions are competitive. Priority for summer GA's is given to current academic year GA's. To be considered for an academic year position, you should make Dr. Feeney aware of your desire for a position AFTER you have applied to the program. Also, please mail or email the following materials:
- Application letter detailing work and academic experiences relevant to the GA position
- Two letters of reference addressing both academic achievement and potential for success as a GA
- Undergraduate transcript(s)
Dr. Tom Feeney
GES Graduate Coordinator
Department of Geography and Earth Science
Shippensburg University
1871 Old Main Drive
Shippensburg, PA 17257
Review of applications will begin in October for the spring semester and April for the fall semester.
University Graduate Assistantships
Additional GA positions are available across campus and may be applied for through the School of Graduate Studies. Requirements for these GA positions may differ from Geography and Earth Science positions.
Graduate Program Links