New Graduate Student Orientation and New TA Training

Learn about MSU 's requirements, resources and services

The New Teaching Assistant Training (NTAT) is required for all Teaching Assistants. 

The New Graduate Student Orientation (NGSO) is available on Brightspace and is recommended for all new graduate students.

New Graduate Student Orientation

Search for the New Graduate Student Orientation Community in Brightspace. Once you enroll, you can find detailed information about life as a GradBear.

Follow the instructions below to learn how to enroll.

• Self-enroll now

Course enrollment instructions

1. Log into Brightspace.
2. Select “Discover” which is the top left menu item (under the MSU logo).
3. Find the course titled “New Graduate Student Orientation” (Course Code: Community_153).
4. Select the “New Graduate Student Orientation” course title.
5. Select “Enroll in Course” and then select “OK.”
6. The course will then be available to you on your “My Home” menu under “My Courses.”

Any new graduate teaching assistant (TAs) must attend the TA orientation before teaching any class. Graduate assistants (GAs) and research assistants (RAs) are also welcome to attend this orientation.

New Teaching Assistant Training (NTAT) provides students with information relevant to their academic role, including:

• Legal issues related to teaching
• Managing conflict within the classroom 
• Effective teaching strategies
• Q&A Panel

Many academic departments also provide formal orientation and training sessions for their specific teaching assignments. Such departmental training is a supplement to, rather than a substitute for, this required orientation. In addition, all graduate assistants will be assigned required compliance trainings through the Office of Human Resources.