Is Change Possible?

Yes. I’ve compiled a list(in no way is this comprehensive!) of schools around the country that provide either some sort of supported birth/maternity leave or subsidized childcare support for their graduate students. More change is still needed: fathers are often excluded in such policies (Michigan being a great exception). What works for one place may not work for another – I don’t believe there is a one-size-fits-all solution. And, I don’t have data that tell me whether these policies have made a difference; nor do I have the small print of these policies. But I do see that there ARE some leaders, and progress can happen.

Links to other schools’ policies related to childbirth/adoption/newborn care:

Penn State’s policy allows birth mothers 6-8 weeks off with continuation of stipend support (contingent on a variety of specific factors related to where funding comes from)
The University of Michigan offers a parental accommodation period of six weeks for mothers and fathers immediately following the birth or adoption of a child, and stipend support is continued.
Princeton provides a 12 week accommodation period for birth mothers, with funding, as well as an extension of deadlines and support by one full term
Berkeley provides a 6 week accommodation period for childbearing women, with stipend support (contingent upon previous stipend support)

Links to other schools’ policies related to childcare:

The University of Michigan offers a childcare subsidy of up to $1870 per full term per child for eligible graduate students
Princeton provides up to $5,000 per year per child in childcare subsidies, based on income
Oregon State provides up to 50% coverage of childcare expenses, based on income
Cornell University offers a childcare subsidy of 25%-35% of annual cost based on household income up to $57,200

~ by academicwomen on April 5, 2008.