Gamma Alpha Graduate Scientific Fraternity was first established in 1899 at Cornell University; at that time, it exclusively admitted male graduate students studying scientific fields. Local chapters would host academic talks and support the exchange of scientific ideas across different departments. The national organization began admitting female graduate students, and graduate students from outside of scientific disciplines, in 1972. The national organization published the Gamma Alpha Record from 1908 until at least 1963; the publication contained chapter and national news, as well as essays from members. As of 2018, Gamma Alpha has four active chapters.

The Ohio Chapter at the Ohio State University was created in 1920, and recognized by national in 1922. The chapter hosted dances, participated in intramural sports, and was involved in philanthropic fundraising. Gamma Alpha was active at the Ohio State University through 1971, though it had lost university recognition in 1967. When the chapter closed, its assets were given to the Ohio State University through the Development Fund, and used to purchase reference materials for campus science libraries.