The Peace Corps Prep Certificate equips you with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience that the Peace Corps looks for in its volunteers. American University consistently ranks among the top medium-sized universities in the country for producing Peace Corps volunteers, and our prep program is designed to give you every advantage as you pursue that path.

Please note that completing the Peace Corps Prep Certificate does not guarantee acceptance as a Peace Corps Volunteer. Acceptance depends on individual qualifications, position needs, other candidates, and background and health screenings. However, the certificate offers a meaningful advantage when competing with other qualified candidates.

Peace Corps Prep Certificate at a Glance

Admissions Requirements

Current AU undergraduate student

Entrance Semester

Any semester

Certificate Requirements

View full certificate requirements

Application Deadline

Applications are reviewed during the fall semester but are accepted on a rolling basis.

How to Apply

Submit the Peace Corps Prep interest form, and a link to the online application will be sent to you.

As a Peace Corps Prep student, you'll build the skills and experiences that make you a strong Peace Corps Volunteer candidate. You'll focus your coursework in one of four sectors closely aligned with Peace Corps work sectors, complete 40 hours of relevant community service through the AU Community Service-Learning Program, and grow your intercultural knowledge and communication skills. Along the way, you'll participate in career workshops, informational interviews, and networking opportunities, and connect with a returned Peace Corps Volunteer mentor who can guide you through the application process and beyond.

The Peace Corps Prep curriculum is designed to build deep expertise in your chosen sector while giving you the practical experience to back it up. You'll complete:

• 9 credit hours in one of four sectors closely aligned with Peace Corps work sectors
• 1 credit hour through AU's Community Service-Learning Program, plus 10 additional experience/service hours
• 6 credit hours in classes designed to build your intercultural understanding and communication skills
• Peace Corps Prep mentorship activities
• Peace Corps Prep professional development opportunities 

Additional coursework compatible with Peace Corps work sectors is available across the university. Talk to your academic advisor if you're interested in courses outside of those listed in the degree requirements.

You'll also need to study abroad or participate in an equivalent global experience, as well as demonstrate proficiency at the intermediate II or higher level in a modern world language other than English.
View Full Certificate Requirements

The Peace Corps Prep Certificate is open to all AU undergraduate students. If you're passionate about international development and committed to a career—or a chapter of your life—in service, we encourage you to apply. Applicants will need to submit a brief statement of purpose describing their interest in the program and their goals for Peace Corps service.

We accept applications to Peace Corps Prep on a rolling basis, but all applications will be reviewed in the fall semester of each academic year. If you'd like to apply or ask questions about the program, fill out our Peace Corps Prep interest form below.