APEXx Scholars Assistantship Program

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Strengthening Graduate Studies Through Excellence In Education and Research

The APEXx Scholars Assistantship Program at Tennessee State University (TSU) is focused on supporting the matriculation, preparation, and completion of graduate-level studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. We implement best practices that support the success of graduate students in STEM in accordance with legislative allowable activities regulated by the Federal Government under  34 CFR §609.10 (a)(4). 


The specific majors supported by the APEXx Scholars Assistantship Program include:

  • Agricultural Sciences
  • Agribusiness and Leadership
  • Environmental Science
  • Food and Animal Science
  • Computer and Information Systems Engineering
  • Computer Science 
  • Biology
  • Engineering
  • Data Science
  • Occupational Therapy

By providing tailored support for students pursuing advanced STEM degrees, the APEXx Scholars Assistantship Program at TSU is working to expand opportunities in these critical fields. The program's emphasis on preparation, retention, and completion aligns with the university's commitment to fostering student success in high-demand STEM areas.

APEXx Scholars serve as research and teaching assistants, produce scholarly works, and engage in professional development opportunities. The assistantship benefits include:

  • Full Tuition (Fall, Spring, Summer)*
  • A monthly stipend ($2,600.00/month for Scholars)*
  • Travel to professional conferences*
  • Increased academic enrichment
  • Faculty and peer engagement
  • Professional development
  • Financial assistance for textbooks*
  • Research supplies*
  • Faculty mentoring

*Total estimated value is $50,000.00/year

Monthly stipends are paid directly to Scholars; however, all other funds are applied to their university accounts.

This support provides opportunities that will empower scholars to excel in their academic programs at TSU. Ultimately, the program seeks to challenge them to take on leadership roles in their academics and chosen careers.

Scholars are held to a high level of expectation. They are expected to perform beyond the minimum to ensure their place among the leaders of tomorrow.

Eligibility

The APEXx Scholars Program is for students pursuing a Masters degree at TSU in STEM subjects. Currently, scholars are offered in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Engineering, Agricultural Sciences, and Occupational Therapy. Program eligibility requirements include:

Eligibility Requirements

  • 3.0 GPA
  • U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident
  • Unconditional admission to a TSU master's program
  • Full-time enrollment
  • Preferably first year students
  • Must complete a thesis or special project

APEXx Program Requirements

  • Must maintain a 3.0 GPA.
  • Work 20 hours per week as a teaching and/or research assistant as determined by your department.
  • Attend mandatory in-person orientation meetings in Fall and Spring semesters.
  • Attend mandatory monthly face-to-face APEXx meetings. 
  • Submit two (2) scholarly works in an academic year. Scholarly works include conference presentations, manuscript submissions, grant proposals, book chapters, etc.
  • Attend eight (8) professional or personal development seminars or workshops in an academic year.
  • Participate in monthly mentoring sessions focused on the completion of thesis work or special projects.
  • Volunteer eight (8) hours to the community in a way that promotes STEM education or deepens your STEM experience or skillset. Examples include volunteering at local science fairs, tutoring in STEM subjects, donating therapy hours, educating the community on STEM topics, etc.
  • Sign and return all requested documents, including contracts, offer letters, timesheets, expectation sheets, release forms, travel requisitions, etc by the stated deadlines.

How to Apply

Upon receiving unconditional admission to the  TSU Graduate School  and the department, prospective applicants should submit the following application materials:

  1. Graduate Assistant Application
  2. Current CV/Resume
  3. Copy of most recent transcript (unofficial copy acceptable)
  4. Name & contact information for two professional references
  5. Personal Statement

Application Deadlines:

  • Spring:  November 1, 2026
  • Summer:  April 1, 2027
  • Fall:  July 1, 2027

Submit your application to:
School of Graduate and Professional Studies

gradschool@tnstate.edu