Program Overview
Introduction to the Peace Corps Prep Program
The Peace Corps Prep program is a diversity-focused certificate program that enhances students' undergraduate experience by preparing them for international development fieldwork and potential Peace Corps service. Established in 1961 by the U.S. Government, the Peace Corps is a highly respected and competitive volunteer program that sends U.S. citizens to serve in communities around the world.
Program Overview
Students who participate in the Peace Corps Prep program take academic coursework and gain practical field experience related to one of the six sectors that align with Peace Corps volunteer assignments. These sectors include:
- Education
- Health
- Environment
- Agriculture
- Youth in Development
- Community Economic Development
Students also develop foreign language skills, enhance intercultural competence, and participate in professional and leadership development activities.
Eligibility
The Peace Corps Prep program is open to any undergraduate student who is not facing disciplinary action and is in good academic standing with a 2.0 GPA or above.
Program Requirements
To complete the Peace Corps Prep program, students must fulfill the following requirements:
Training and Experience in a Specific Work Sector
- Complete three courses that align with one of the six Peace Corps Prep sectors.
- Complete a minimum of 50 hours of field experience through volunteer, work, or internship positions in the same sector.
Foreign Language Skills
- For Latin America: Complete two intermediate Spanish courses (2000 level or higher).
- For West Africa: Build proficiency in French or another Romance language by completing at least one intermediate course (2000 level or higher).
- For other regions: Students have no explicit language requirements, but are encouraged to take at least one foreign language class.
Intercultural Competence
- Complete three courses from the approved course list.
- Students may substitute one or two courses with a Learning Abroad experience if it was in one of the Peace Corps countries.
- Students may substitute one of the above courses with a prolonged (40 hours+) intercultural activity.
Professional and Leadership Development
- Meet with a career counselor at Career Services to have your resume reviewed.
- Attend an interview workshop or schedule a mock interview with a career counselor at Career Services.
- Participate in one activity to develop significant leadership experience.
Awards
Students who complete the program will receive a Certificate of Completion from the Peace Corps. This certificate can be attached to the Peace Corps application as proof of completion. Additionally, completing the Peace Corps Prep program can help prepare students for other global opportunities and may strengthen their Peace Corps application. Peace Corps Prep students are also encouraged to complete the Global Citizens Credential (GCC) program, which can further enhance their application.