Our Office
Student Services Center, Room 460
530-898-6880
graduatestudies@csuchico.edu
The Office of Graduate Studies
Business Hours
8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Monday–Friday
Mailing Address
Office of Graduate Studies
California State University, Chico
400 W. First St.
Chico, CA 95929–0875
@chicostategradstudiesGrad Studies YouTube Channel (@chicostate-gradstudies)
Grad Studies YouTube ChannelGraduate Student Awards, Fellowship and Funding Opportunities
We encourage Chico State graduate students to apply for the following opportunities. All students will be considered without regard to race, ethnicity, gender, or national origin.
Great-Op Research Fellowships and Assistantships
The Graduate Education Access & Opportunity (Great-Op) Program offers Chico State graduate students the chance to apply for research assistantships and fellowships, which provide the opportunity to work with a faculty mentor on projects that advance both the faculty’s work and the student’s academic skills. These opportunities aim to support students traditionally underrepresented in graduate education, such as Latinx, low-income, and underserved groups, who have strong academic records and a desire to enhance their research skills.
Graduate Equity Fellowship Program
The Graduate Equity Fellowship Program (GEFP) seeks to increase the diversity of students completing graduate degree programs at Chico State, encourages exploration of doctoral degree opportunities, and promotes consideration of university faculty careers. It provides support for students from historically underrepresented groups, including those who have experienced economic disadvantages, restricted access to quality educational opportunities, and underrepresentation in the respective discipline.
Research and Conference Funding
Current graduate students may apply for funds up to $300 for reimbursement for conference presentations and travel or research (e.g., travel to libraries, purchase of equipment) within the United States. Applications are accepted until funds have been fully disbursed.
Outstanding Thesis or Project Award
The winners of the Outstanding Thesis and Project are each recognized with a cash award, identified on the master’s commencement program, and are listed on the perpetual plaques displayed in the Graduate School. Nominees for the Outstanding Thesis or Project Award must have graduated in the spring, summer, or fall of the preceding calendar year. Each college may submit a maximum of one thesis and/or one project nomination. The college’s nominee(s) are typically selected by the college’s Outstanding Thesis/Project Committee from among projects and theses forwarded for consideration to the college office from departments.
Graduate Assistants, Teaching Associates, and Internships
Many master’s degree programs have Graduate Assistant (GA) and/or Teaching Associate (TA) positions open to qualified graduate students. Check with your graduate coordinator to learn more about these options and their availability.
Both GA and TA employment policies are governed by the negotiated Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between California State University and the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW), AFL-CIO and its Local Union 4123. These positions are both part of Bargaining Unit 11.
To qualify for participation in either a GA or TA position, a student must meet the following qualifications:- Must be admitted to a master’s degree program. Credential students do not qualify.
- Must be enrolled in a minimum of one unit toward the completion of a graduate degree during the appointment period. Enrollment under adjunct status does not qualify.
- Registration fees must be paid, or the student must have enough anticipated financial aid to pay these fees.
GA’s may not work more than 20 hours per week in these positions or in combination of employment as a “student” worker while also appointed to a Unit 11 position. Otherwise, the student may risk losing their GA position. TA’s are now salaried non-exempt employees who may be appointed up to the equivalent of full-time (40 hours per week) over the period of the appointment if they are only TA’s. If they are also working as a GA or ISA or regular student employee, the 20-hour rule still applies across all student positions. This is in accordance with the Unit 11 CBA. (Note: Instructional Student Assistants (ISAs) are student employees also represented in Unit 11.)
Students in many departments are encouraged (and in some cases required) to complete an internship during their academic career. An internship will generally help students not only have greater levels of experience and thus be more marketable but will also provide a better understanding of future career paths. Employers look for graduates who “stand out.” Intern experience may be exactly what you need to improve your marketability to future employers.
Funding, Programs, and Grant Opportunities for Graduate Students
Many government agencies, philanthropic organizations, and professional associations offer funding for graduate research and study. Graduate students are encouraged to apply for research, travel, and study grants to support graduate-level research.
Students are also encouraged to take advantage of CSU, Chico's Internal Research Grants.
Students may also want to search online on major databases such as:
Pre-Doctoral Programs
For students aspiring to pursue a doctorate, we highly encourage exploring the following programs specifically designed to support your academic journey. These programs aim to provide the necessary resources, mentorship, and guidance to help you thrive and succeed in your doctoral studies.s:
- The California Pre-Doctoral Scholars Program (CPSP or Pre-Doc) is designed to increase the pool of potential faculty by supporting the doctoral aspirations of CSU students who have experienced economic and educational disadvantages.
- The California State University (CSU) Chancellor's Doctoral Incentive Program (CDIP) aims to increase the number of promising doctoral students applying for future CSU instructional faculty positions by offering financial assistance in the form of a loan and mentorship by CSU faculty.
