Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary
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.
Common Job Titles
- Graduate Assistant
- Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA)
- Research Assistant (RA)
- Teaching Assistant (TA)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeExplain complex course content and learning objectives during discussion sections and review sessions with undergraduate and graduate students.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate student examinations, papers, and assignments using rubrics and grading standards established by faculty, ensuring consistency and fairness.Proficient
- KnowledgeDesign instructional materials and supplemental learning resources incorporating multimedia tools and educational technology to enhance student engagement.Developing
- MindsetEngage students from diverse backgrounds in active learning discussions fostering an inclusive classroom environment that values multiple perspectives.Developing
- KnowledgeApply pedagogical strategies and learning theory principles when leading discussion groups and facilitating collaborative problem-solving activities.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze student performance data and assessment results to identify learning gaps and recommend instructional improvements to supervising faculty.Developing
- MindsetSupport students' academic development and learning needs through individual consultations, office hours, and responsive feedback on coursework.Developing
- KnowledgePrepare course examinations and assessment instruments aligned with faculty-defined course objectives and academic standards.Developing
- KnowledgeOperate learning management systems and educational technology platforms to administer online content, track student progress, and facilitate hybrid learning environments.Developing
- KnowledgeCoordinate instructional activities and administrative tasks under faculty supervision, managing multiple course sections and maintaining accurate academic records.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
155,010
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $28,020. 25th percentile: U.S. $32,640. 50th percentile: U.S. $44,930. 75th percentile: U.S. $60,410. 90th percentile: U.S. $73,560. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $28,020 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $73,560 |
| Workers on average earn | $47,560 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- English Language4.7/5
- Education and Training4.5/5
- Computers and Electronics3.5/5
- Mathematics3.3/5
- Communications and Media2.9/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Photoshop
- Google Docs
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- SAS
- Structured query language SQL
Technology Skills
- Blackboard Learn
- Calendar and scheduling software
- Collaborative editing software
- Course management system software
- DOC Cop
- Desire2Learn LMS software
- Email software
- Image scanning software
Tools & Equipment
- Carousel slide projectors
- Compact digital cameras
- Compact disk CD players
- Computer data input scanners
- Computer laser printers
- Computer projectors
- Conference telephones
- Desktop computers