Financial Aid
Financial Aid
There are two primary forms of financial aid available to our graduate students: (1) Dean's Stipend Awards and (2) Graduate Student Researcher Appointments. The Dean of the School of Medicine determines the amount of the annual award based upon recommendations from the Graduate Council. The stipend is $24,000 per annum. It is the School of Medicine's policy that all students receive the same amount of stipend, regardless of educational background or program of study. Medical Insurance is also provided.
Dean's Stipend Awards
These scholarships are awarded to entering students for their first two years of graduate study. To retain the award students must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.00 while taking a full-time course load (9-15 credits in the Fall and Spring Terms; 3 credits in the Summer Term). No supplementation of funds from other sources is permitted for recipients of the Dean's Stipend.
Students receiving Dean's Stipend awards are appointed as Graduate Student Assistants (GSAs) and are governed by all policies pertaining to the award.
Links
Full policy statement
Graduate Student Researchers (GSRs)
Fellowship support for third and subsequent-year students is awarded on the basis of academic performance in the first two years. To retain their award GSRs must enroll as a full-time student (9-15 credits in the Fall and Spring Terms; 3 credits in the Summer Term), maintain a cumulative academic grade point average of 3.0, and carry out assigned duties satisfactorily. Examples of unsatisfactory academic performance include a QPA below 3.0, completion of fewer than six credits of graduate work in each the Fall and Spring terms, failure to pass departmental examinations as specified, or inadequate research progress. GSRs are governed by all policies pertaining to the award.
GSRs have traditionally received support through their advisor's research grants or through Government and Foundation Fellowships.
a. Research Grants to Individual Faculty
Some students involved in thesis research are supported from research grants to their major advisor. It is the policy of the Department that the amount provided by faculty members for students' support will be such that the total stipend received by the student from all departmental or medical school student support funds shall be equal to the stipend level designated by the Dean's Office.
b. Government and Foundation Fellowships
Qualified students are strongly encouraged to apply for these prestigious and highly competitive awards. In addition to the national competitions, the Department of Pharmacology has been awarded a predoctoral training grant supported by the NIH. Details regarding application procedures for these fellowships can be obtained from the Graduate Program Coordinator (phone 412-648-9321).
As part of the Department's intention to provide the greatest opportunity to develop scholarship and research skills, stipends are intended to support vigorous and full-time commitment on the part of the student to successfully complete his/her graduate training in a reasonable period of time. In those cases where the level of support may pose a serious financial hardship during the course of a graduate student's training, the departmental chairman will actively assist the student in exploring possible sources of supplemental support.
Links
Full policy statement
Medical Insurance
The University will provide individual medical insurance coverage for full-time graduate students. An option to purchase two-person or family coverage is available. Dental and optical coverage is also available for an additional small charge. You can contact the Graduate Program Coordinator for more information.
Contact Information
Patricia J. Smith
Graduate Program Coordinator
(412) 648-9321
pjs34@pitt.edu
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