Ohio State University Recreational Sports Graduate Assistantships 2026–2027 offer an exceptional opportunity for ambitious students to pursue a master’s degree in the United States while gaining hands-on professional experience in campus recreation. Hosted by the OSU Department of Recreational Sports, this program provides both domestic and international students with a fully funded pathway to advanced education and professional development in recreational sports, fitness, event management, and student affairs.
Located in Columbus, Ohio, Ohio State University is one of the largest public universities in the U.S., enrolling over 50,000 students across undergraduate and graduate programs. With its world-class facilities and strong academic reputation—particularly in sports management, kinesiology, and higher education—OSU offers an ideal environment for graduate students seeking to balance academic growth with practical, career-building experience.
Why Apply?
This Graduate Assistantship is an ideal opportunity for students who want to combine academic growth with hands-on experience in campus recreation. With a full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and professional development, it’s a fully funded pathway to launch your career in sports, fitness, or higher education administration.
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Graduate Programs & Eligibility
To be eligible for the Ohio State University Recreational Sports Graduate Assistantships 2026–2027, applicants must apply to one of the following graduate programs at OSU:
- Master of Science (M.S.) in Kinesiology, Sport Management
- Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Studies, Higher Education and Student Affairs
Requirements:
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- All nationalities are eligible to apply.
- Only applications to the programs listed above will be considered by Ohio State Recreational Sport.s
Graduate Assistantship Positions
OSU offers graduate assistantship positions across several areas, allowing students to choose a role that aligns with their career goals and interests:
1. Facilities Management
Graduate Assistants in facilities management oversee operations at OSU’s recreation centers, including the Jesse Owens North and South Recreation Centers, the North Recreation Center, and Adventure Recreation Center. Responsibilities include:
- Supervising student staff
- Managing day-to-day operations
- Ensuring facility safety and maintenance
- Assisting in special projects and facility upgrades
This role is ideal for students interested in sports facility management, operations leadership, or administrative roles in recreation centers.
2. Special Events Coordination
GAs in special events support OSU’s Recreation and Physical Activity Center (RPAC) in coordinating approximately 600 events per year, including:
- Athletic tournaments
- Banquets and ceremonies
- Educational workshops
- Club meetings
This position develops skills in event planning, program coordination, and team leadership, preparing students for careers in event management and student affairs.
3. Member Services
The Member Services GA role focuses on supervising student staff at the RPAC Welcome Center and Sport Shop, as well as managing access control systems. Key responsibilities include:
- Ensuring smooth daily operations
- Providing excellent customer service
- Training and mentoring student staff
This role is ideal for students who enjoy client-facing roles and administrative leadership in fitness and recreation settings.
4. Group Fitness Program Management
GAs in group fitness manage hiring, training, and supervision of instructors, oversee program scheduling, and assist in program administration.
Benefits of this role include direct involvement in program development, experience in fitness leadership, and exposure to health and wellness programming—making it ideal for students pursuing careers in fitness management or corporate wellness.
5. Personal Training Support
Graduate Assistants in personal training support individual and small group training programs, including:
- Workshops and wellness seminars
- Exercise program design and implementation
- Body composition testing and progress tracking
This position provides hands-on experience in exercise science, personal training, and health coaching.
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Benefits
The OSU Graduate Assistantship program offers a comprehensive financial package for students:
- Monthly stipend: Approximately $2,682
- Full tuition waiver: Covers in-state, out-of-state, and international tuition
- Professional development: Gain valuable skills for your future career
The assistantship spans two years, providing steady financial support and academic guidance throughout your graduate program. While summer employment is not guaranteed, occasional opportunities may be available, allowing students to gain additional experience or earn extra income during the break.
Application Process
Applying for the OSU Graduate Assistantship program requires a two-step process:
- Submit your application through the official OSU Graduate Assistantship portal for 2026–2027.
- Email a cover letter and resume to the student staff training specialist, Kolby Carothers, at carothers.50@osu.edu.
For More details, visit the official Graduate Assistantships page
Key Deadline
- November 1, 2025 – keep this date in mind.
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Tips for a Successful Application
Applying for the Ohio State University Recreational Sports Graduate Assistantship 2026–2027 is competitive, but these tips can help you stand out and improve your chances of securing this fully funded graduate opportunity:
- Highlight Relevant Experience
Emphasize your involvement in sports management, fitness programs, event coordination, or student leadership. Admissions committees look for candidates with practical experience that aligns with the GA role. - Maintain a Strong Academic Record
Ensure your GPA meets or exceeds the 3.0 minimum requirement. Academic excellence demonstrates your preparedness for a rigorous graduate program. - Tailor Your Cover Letter and Resume
Customize your application materials to reflect your interest in graduate assistantships at OSU. Clearly outline your career goals, relevant experience, and how you can contribute to the Recreational Sports department. - Demonstrate Leadership and Team Skills
Provide examples of student mentorship, team management, or project coordination. Graduate Assistant roles often require supervising student staff and collaborating with professional teams. - Submit Complete and Timely Applications
Applications received by November 1, 2025, will be given priority, so submit all forms, transcripts, and supporting documents early to improve your chances of selection.
OSU GA FAQs
1. What are the eligibility requirements?
Applicants must be admitted to the M.S. in Kinesiology, Sport Management, or M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs programs, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and submit a complete GA application with resume and cover letter.
2. Can international students apply?
Yes. The program is open to all nationalities. International students must meet English proficiency requirements and are eligible for the full tuition waiver and stipend.
3. What financial support is provided?
Graduate Assistants receive a monthly stipend of about $2,682 plus a full tuition waiver, covering in-state, out-of-state, and international tuition. Some positions also include a health insurance subsidy.
4. What professional experience will I gain?
GAs gain hands-on experience in campus recreation, including facilities management, group fitness programming, member services, and special events coordination—preparing them for careers in sports management and student affairs.
5. What is the application deadline?
The priority deadline is November 1, 2025. Applications submitted by this date are reviewed first, increasing your chances of selection.
6. How long is the assistantship?
The assistantship is a two-year commitment, offering consistent financial support and professional experience. Summer work may be available, but it is not guaranteed.
Final Thoughts
The Ohio State University Recreational Sports Graduate Assistantship 2026–2027 offers a unique chance to gain real-world experience while pursuing a fully funded graduate degree. Beyond financial support, it provides opportunities to develop leadership, professional, and career-ready skills that will open doors in higher education, wellness, and sports management.
Open to all nationalities, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Take the first step toward your future—apply today!