U of A Partners With Peace Corps to Offer Student Certificate Program

The University of Arkansas has partnered with the Peace Corps to offer a Peace Corps Prep certificate program for undergraduate students. The program, now in effect, prepares students for service in the Peace Corps and prepares students to be successful intercultural leaders after graduation.

 "I am excited our campus has partnered with the Peace Corps to offer this certificate program," said Curt Rom, associate dean for International Education. "This program is a great way to increase international awareness on our campus and prepare our students for international development opportunities with the Peace Corps, nongovernmental agencies, governmental agencies or international businesses. When our students go abroad with the Peace Corps, they increase the international footprint of our state, and the global experiences they bring back prepare them for rewarding careers in the global marketplace and add value to the Arkansas economy and communities."

The program is centered on building student competencies in sector-specific skills, foreign language proficiency, intercultural competence, and professional savvy and leadership. Students who incorporate the program into their curriculum will have hands-on experiences and professional development opportunities integrated in their coursework.

After completing the program, students will receive a certificate from the Peace Corps and a competitive advantage when applying for Peace Corps service.

The University of Arkansas is one of only 100 Peace Corps Prep partner schools across the country.  Approximately 30 University of Arkansas alumni serve as Peace Corps volunteers each year, and approximately 20 returning Peace Corps volunteers serve as faculty, staff or emeritus at the university.

Students interested in completing the Peace Corps Prep certificate program should contact the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange.