Viterbi Teaching Assistant (TA) Training
Overview
Welcome to the Viterbi Teaching Assistant (TA) Training Website.
This website serves as a central resource for understanding the responsibilities of Teaching Assistants within the USC Viterbi School of Engineering, as well as the steps necessary to prepare for success in this role. Whether you are a newly appointed, continuing, or prospective TA, or a department advisor, you will find comprehensive information regarding training requirements, onboarding procedures, and important announcements.
Please use the site menu to learn more about the process of becoming a TA, fulfilling training obligations, and remaining informed about key updates and deadlines.
What is a Viterbi Teaching Assistant?
A Viterbi Teaching Assistant (TA) is a graduate student selected to support the teaching and learning mission of the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. TAs play a vital role in the academic success of our students by assisting faculty with course delivery and providing direct support to undergraduate and graduate learners.
TA responsibilities may include:
- Leading lab or discussion sections
- Holding office hours and tutoring sessions
- Grading assignments and exams
- Supporting course logistics
- Facilitating student engagement and understanding
TAs are appointed by individual departments and must meet eligibility requirements set by the university and the Viterbi School.
The Viterbi TA Training Program
The Viterbi TA Training Program is a required onboarding experience designed to prepare PhD students roles. Teaching Assistants at Viterbi are required to take 2 courses on Trojan Learn: FERPA Awareness (every year) and Skills for Enhancing Student Success and Well-Being.
Accessing the TA Training Course
If you have been offered a Teaching Assistantship, your department advisor will notify the VASE team. Once we receive confirmation, you will be enrolled in the training course on Trojan Learn. You will receive an automated email from Trojan Learn once access is granted.
If you believe you should have access but do not see the course, please reach out to vasephd@usc.edu for assistance.
Training Completion & Tracking
Successful completion of FERPA Awareness (every year) and Skills for Enhancing Student Success and Well-Being (for new TAs) is required.
Completion is tracked internally by the VASE team. Once you have met all the requirements, your department will be notified. You do not need to send a certificate or separate confirmation.
For the Fall 2026 semester the training will be assigned on August 31st and will be due by October 1st.
Failure to complete all items in the training course will result in an ENGR01 hold being placed on your account. The ENGR01 hold will prevent you from registering in courses for future semesters. The processing timeline to lift the hold is 5-6 business days.
Resources for TAs
Contact Information
Email: vasephd@usc.edu