Program Overview

Introduction to the Peace Corps Preparatory Program

The University of Montana has partnered with the United States Peace Corps to offer the first Peace Corps Preparatory Program at a public university. This program is designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to increase their effectiveness as volunteers and better equip them for service in low-income countries.

Program Details

The Peace Corps Preparatory Program is part of the international development studies minor in the College of Arts and Sciences. Students who complete the program will receive a Peace Corps certificate, which will give them a distinct advantage in the highly competitive Peace Corps application process.

Program Requirements

To receive the Peace Corps certificate, students must complete the outlined coursework, which includes:

• International development studies minor
• Specialized coursework in areas such as:
  • Environment
  • Health and HIV/AIDS
  • Youth and community development
  • Business and information communication technology
  • Agriculture/forestry
  • Education
  • Civic engagement

Program Benefits

The Peace Corps Preparatory Program provides students with a unique opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to make a positive impact in low-income countries. The program also offers students a distinct advantage in the Peace Corps application process, with only one out of every three applicants currently being accepted to become a volunteer.

History of the Program

The University of Montana has a long-standing relationship with the Peace Corps, with 765 Grizzlies having served in the Peace Corps since 1961. The university is currently ranked No. 14 in the country among medium-sized universities for the number of Peace Corps volunteers produced.

Partnership with the Peace Corps

The University of Montana has partnered with the Peace Corps through the Peace Corps Master's International program, which allows students to combine a master's degree with a Peace Corps assignment in their area of study. The university is also one of only three universities in the U.S. to offer the Peace Corps Prep program, which provides students with a globally-minded curriculum and a distinct advantage in the Peace Corps application process.

About the Peace Corps

The Peace Corps was established on March 1, 1961, by executive order of President John F. Kennedy. The organization has a long history of promoting peace and friendship around the world, with over 200,000 Americans having served in 139 host countries since its inception. Today, 8,655 volunteers are working with local communities in 77 host countries, promoting a better understanding between Americans and the people of these countries.