Department-Funded Student Jobs

Through department-funded jobs, students gain valuable work experience related to their field of study, while providing our academic departments essential operational support. See below for details.

What is a department-funded job?

Unlike federally funded Federal Work-Study (FWS) jobs, department-funded jobs are financed by the RISD department or office hiring the student. All students are typically eligible for department-funded jobs, regardless of financial aid status (whereas FWS jobs are only open to students with FWS as part of their financial aid package).

Since hiring departments draw from their budget to finance department-funded jobs, they should approach them strategically so that they benefit both the department and the student worker. This includes minding budget constraints, ensuring equity and accessibility, and aligning positions with student academic and professional growth.

If you’re looking for information about FWS, follow the link below.

Learn more about Federal Work-Study

Hiring consideration details

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Given department budget limits, department-funded student jobs call for strategic hiring practices. To ensure efficient use of funds, positions should be justified as a necessary part of your operations and in support of your department’s goals and objectives.

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Consider equity and accessibility in hiring practices to ensure that all students have the opportunity to gain work experience. This includes creating positions that cater to a range of skills and academic interests.

Read our job posting guidelines for tips on writing an inclusive and accessible job listing.

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Roles that contribute to the academic and professional growth of students enhances the value of departmentally-funded jobs for both your department and for student employees.

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Consider the long-term sustainability of your student employee positions. You will need to assess the ongoing availability of departmental funds and the impact of these jobs on department goals.

Finding a department-funded position

Department-funded jobs are open to all RISD students who meet US work requirements.

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Need help understanding US work requirements?

We help guide international students through the steps you need to take for US employment eligibility verification.

International student employment

Find out more

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For student employees

A student job can be a key part of your journey here—one designed to empower you through real-world experiences and prepare for long-term career and personal success.

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For on-campus supervisors

Learn more about your responsibilities as a supervisor, and how you can best support student employees.

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Federal Work-Study

Designed to help students meet educational expenses via on- or off-campus work, Federal Work-Study (FWS) can play a critical role in eligible student’s experience at RISD.

New and Incoming Students

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Department-Funded Student Jobs

What is a department-funded job?

Hiring consideration details

Budget constraints

Equity and accessibility

Academic and professional impact

Long-term planning

Finding a department-funded position

Need help understanding US work requirements?

Find out more