Peace Corps Prep Program

Peace Corps logo

Earn a certificate and get a competitive edge when applying to the Peace Corps. Peace Corps Prep builds the foundation for core competencies critical to serving boldly with the Peace Corps and working collaboratively as a Peace Corps Volunteer.

Peace Corps has identified four core competencies that are critical to the intercultural fieldwork Peace Corps Volunteers do:

  • Focused hands-on experience
  • Intercultural exchange
  • Professional leadership
  • Foreign language skills

Build your skills with Peace Corps Prep!

This web site explains each of these requirements in detail. Use this site to map out your Peace Corps Prep course of study. In particular, refer to this when completing your PC Prep application, where you’ll need to document how you plan to fulfill each requirement. This site aligns point-by-point with each section of the application!

New Peacebuilding Internship Opportunity
USU Peace Corps Prep offers a 1–3 credit Peacebuilding Internship (PI 4940) where students learn about the Peace Corps and build intercultural competence while exploring the six Peace Corps sectors through community-engaged learning. While not required for the Peace Corps Prep certificate, completing the internship fulfills most of the requirements.
volunteer with children

Training & experience in a specific work sector

Leveraging concrete knowledge and skills is central to on-the-ground international development work.

Get the details
women with native blankets

Foreign language skills

Most students must hone their capacity to interact professionally using a non-English language.

Get the details
volunteer with students studying

Intercultural competence

Engaging thoughtfully and fluidly across cultures begins with one’s own self-awareness.

Get the details
volunteer and children

Professional and leadership development

Peace Corps service and similar international development work opportunities are highly professional and selective.

Get the details