Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Peace Corps & Graduate School: A beautiful combination

"I can't decide if I should go into the Peace Corps or go to graduate school right away...."
If you happen to be in this predicament, Peace Corps now has a solution for you. You can apply to both simultaneously!

According to the Corps web site (http://www.peacecorps.gov/index.cfm?shell=resources.grads)

  • "Peace Corps has established partnerships with colleges and universities across the United States that offer academic credit and financial incentives to Volunteers during or after Peace Corps service. Master's International allows you to incorporate Peace Corps service into a master's degree program at more than 50 colleges and universities. And our Fellows/USA program offers returned Volunteers scholarships or reduced tuition at more than 40 participating schools."

You can begin coursework towards your Master's degree for one-two years and then complete your term abroad in one of more than 50+ programs as part of the Master's International program (http://www.peacecorps.gov/index.cfm?shell=learn.whyvol.eduben.mastersint). Or, you can begin your graduate school pursuits after your return from the Peace Corps as a Fellow.

The best part of this educational collaboration is that the Master's degree programs are diverse and are offered through institutions across the country. From nursing to forestry to public policy and regional planning, you'll be pleased with the options!