DPA Graduate Assistant Application - Division of Public Affairs

The Graduate Research Assistantship within the Division of Public Affairs (DPA) provides awardees with the opportunity to work with division directors in a research-focused position. The assistantship requires 20 hours per week, except for school breaks and holidays.

Compensation for the 2025-2026 is $10,400/semester (fall and spring) , payable in equal installments on the 7th and 22nd of each month beginning September and ending in May, and up to a 100% tuition waiver, dependent on student eligibility and available funding, as provided by the College of Social and Behavioral Science. Tuition waivers are distributed by the College and not guaranteed. The Division of Public Affairs will know prior to August if funding has been granted for your tuition waiver. If received, tuition waiver does not cover special fees nor does it cover differential tuition. Other limitations may apply and we encourage students to discuss any questions with the Program Manager. If granted a tuition waiver, you are eligible to enroll in the subsidized student insurance (GSHIP), and the Division of Public Affairs pays 100% of the premium at the start of the semester. The graduate school website has more information about rates and information. The Program Manager will ask for your decision regarding GSHIP enrollment prior to each semester you are given tuition benefit. Per University of Utah and Division of Public Affairs rules, RA’s are required to be in good standing, which includes maintaining a 3.0 GPA, remaining in their respective program for both semesters, registering for 9 to 12 credit hours during fall and spring semesters, and maintaining enrollment throughout this period.

The application process for the Graduate Research Assistantship is highly competitive due to the extraordinary opportunities provided to the awardee. Currently enrolled or newly admitted MIAGE, MPA, and MPP students interested in applying for the assistantship may submit an online application using the application below.

Application deadline: April 1, 2025

For questions regarding this application, please contact dpa@utah.edu.

Contact Information

First Name

Last Name

Email Address

Phone Number

uNID

If you have one please provide it

Assistantship Information

Please select which assistantship you are interested in.

MPA Program AssistantshipMPP Program AssistantshipMIAGE Program Assistantship

What is your expected date of graduation?

Semester

Year

Please answer the following questions in a statement of interest of between 500 to 700 words (and no more than 800) in length.

1. What drew you to your program (MIAGE, MPP, MPA) and what are your goals for your degree?
2. Why are you interested in this assistantship and how do you see it supporting your academic and/or professional aspirations?
3. Describe the relevant skills, experience, and/or interest that make you a strong candidate for this position and what you hope to bring to your respective program.

Please attach a copy of your resume