Peace Corps Prep Program

Peace Corps Prep Program

USF is a globally focused public research institution dedicated to student success. Its mission is to deliver competitive undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs to generate knowledge, foster intellectual development, and ensure student success in a global environment.

The Peace Corps Prep (PCP) Program aligns with the strategic goals of USF and our efforts to provide students with high-quality global experiences – on our campuses and across the world.

Overview

The PCP will prepare you for international development fieldwork and potential Peace Corps service by developing four core competencies:

  1. Training and experience in specific work sector
  2. Foreign language proficiency
  3. Intercultural competency
  4. Professional leadership and development skills

The PCP covers all six Peace Corps work sectors: Agriculture, Community Economic Development, Education, Environment, Health and Youth in Development

*The PCP does not guarantee acceptance into the Peace Corps, but it serves as a strong advantage, helping to expedite responses on your application and interview process.

Requirements and enrollment

Students enroll in the Peace Corps Prep Program after attending a PCP workshop. Once the workshop is completed, students are automatically enrolled in the course and can progress at their own pace.

There are seven requirements for completing the PCP:

  1. Attend a Peace Corps Prep workshop. You will automatically be enrolled in the PCP Canvas course once you have attended workshop. PCP workshops are hosted monthly and can be found on BullsConnect.

  2. Choose your focus sector: Agriculture, Community Economic Development, Education, Environment, Health and Youth in Development

  3. Complete and document three sector-aligned courses and 50 hours of sector-aligned hands-on experience.

  4. Complete and document two 200-level foreign language courses OR learn a different language through an alternative learning process.

  5. Complete and document three courses/electives/experiences that bolster your intercultural competence.

  6. Attend one professional resume feedback session, one professional interview preparation session, and describe one demonstrated leadership experience.

  7. Compile your activities and reflections into a Canvas ePortfolio and meet with the GCP/PCP coordinator to review your Exit Checklist.

  8. Optional: complete the Global Citizens Award (GCA)

 

FAQS

Who can join the Peace Corps Prep Program (PCP)?

The PCP is open to all USF undergraduate students in degree-granting colleges who are in good academic standing. Students of all nationalities are welcome to enroll, unlike the Peace Corps itself, which is limited to U.S. citizens.

When and how do I enroll in the PCP? 

You must enroll by the add/drop deadline of your first Senior semester (when you have at least two semesters remaining at USF). To enroll:

  1. Review program requirements above.
  2. Attend a Peace Corps Prep workshop (register on BullsConnect).
  3. You will automatically be added to the PCP Canvas course upon completing the workshop and you can progress through the course at your own pace.

Is the PCP only for students interested in joining the Peace Corps or pursuing international work or academics? 

No, the PCP develops intercultural skills that support a wide range of educational and career goals. While it’s ideal for those planning to join the Peace Corps, it also strengthens resumes and builds marketable talents for any professional field.

Should I join PCP?

Yes! The PCP is perfect for students interested in global citizenship, international development, or transnational relations. Benefits include:

  • Gaining volunteer experience in a Peace Corps sector
  • Enhancing your resume and boosting your Peace Corps application
  • Deepening your understanding of international development and global citizenship
  • Exploring the Peace Corps as a post-graduation career option

How does the PCP coursework affect my major(s), minor(s) and/or certificate(s)?

PCP courses often count as electives, and major, or minor credits, avoiding extra graduation requirements. Depending on your academic plan, they may also fulfill General Education or college requirements. PCP coursework integrates global and intercultural learning into your degree without additional credits.

Do I need to complete the Global Citizens Project (GCP) if I want to do the PCP?

No, but both programs overlap significantly and it would be a great benefit to complete both!

Do I need to study abroad to complete the PCP?

No, studying abroad is not required, but it’s encouraged as it enhances your global citizenship experience. Discover different programs at Education Abroad.

Are there any important dates or deadlines for the PCP?

Yes!

Enrollment Deadline: Complete enrollment by the end of add/drop period of your first Senior year semester.

Requirements Deadline: Finish all program requirements and attend your Exit Checklist meeting by March 15 or October 15 of your final semester to ensure graduation recognition and proper delivery of your certificate.

I have more questions regarding the PCP. Who do I contact?

Send an email with any questions to the Global Citizens Project coordinator at usfworld-gca@usf.edu or schedule an appointment here.

I have questions regarding the Peace Corps. Who do I contact?

Send an email to the USF Peace Corps recruiter at peacecorps@usf.edu. The USF Peace Corps Recruitment office is in the Global Student Center in FAO100 on the Tampa campus.