Peace Corps Prep Certificate
The Peace Corps is an incredible way to not only immerse yourself in another culture; it’s an exceptional way to expand your professional skills. With the Peace Corps Prep Certificate program, you may be able to increase your chances of being selected for placement.
What is the Peace Corps Prep Certificate Program?
Peace Corps Prep is an undergraduate certificate program offering future Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs) critical sector-specific job skills, foreign language proficiency, intercultural competence, and professional leadership development skills. Ranked among the top schools for preparing Peace Corps volunteers, the University of Redlands has a long history of producing Peace Corps Volunteers.
Who is eligible to apply?
All University of Redlands undergraduates in the College of Arts and Sciences and School of Business will be eligible to participate in the PC Prep program. Applications will be suggested during the sophomore and junior years, though programming related to PC Prep will be open to all students.
What is the purpose of the program?
The Peace Corps Prep Program provides students with additional knowledge, experience, skills, and mentors needed to prepare for service in the Peace Corps. It serves as an additional optional credential for University of Redlands undergraduate students, preparing them in core areas and competencies emphasized by the Peace Corps and potentially* offering an advantage in the Peace Corps application process.
What does the program entail?
Undergraduate students wishing to participate in the Peace Corps Prep program will need to submit an application, which is reviewed on an annual basis.
Next, applicants will proceed with the sections below:
Choose a Sector
Within whatever sector you choose, you will take 3 associated courses, and complete 50 hours of related service work.
- Education
- Health
- Environment
- Youth in Development
- Community Economic Development
- Agriculture
Development of Intercultural Competence
To engage thoughtfully and fluidly across cultures, students must become self-aware. Students participating in this program will deepen their cultural agility through a mix of 3 introspective courses to learn about others while reflecting on your own self in relation to others. The goal is for you to build your capacity to shift perspective and behavior around relevant cultural differences.
Increase Professional Development
To meet the demands of a successful Peace Corps application and to be competitive in the eyes of organizations in the highly competitive professional arena of international development, the program guides students towards strengthening and leveraging their professional development. Prep students will have their resume reviewed, learn more about interview preparation, and develop at least one significant leadership experience.
How do I apply?
When you’re ready to apply, simply complete our online application.
