PREP CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
In 2018, Florida Atlantic University was approved as an official Peace Corps Prep (PCP) Certificate site! The PCP program, organized by Peace Corps and administered by Florida Atlantic University, provides students the opportunity to gain critical competencies and skills needed to excel within Peace Corps—should they elect to pursue that professional pathway post-graduation.
The program is open to undergraduate students of all programs of study who meet the minimum eligibility requirements. PCP is designed so students can develop essential competencies in four different areas:
- Sector-specific skills
- Foreign language proficiency
- Intercultural competence
- Professional savvy and leadership
Upon completion of the program, students are awarded a certificate from Peace Corps and invited to attend a reception with their peers recognizing their accomplishment.
What is Peace Corps?
Peace Corps is an international service opportunity for U.S. citizens at least 18 years of age to engage with local communities around the world and develop solutions to complex challenges faced in today’s ever-changing environment. There are various volunteer opportunities within Peace Corps with international service components that last from several months to several years, including Peace Corps Volunteers, Peace Corps Response Volunteers, and the Global Health Service Partnership. Watch a video about Peace Corps here!
What are the benefits of participating in the Peace Corps Prep (PCP) program?
The PCP program allows students to build a foundation, which prepares them for global service. Students are encouraged but not required to consider applying for a service opportunity with Peace Corps after graduation. Students will strengthen sector-specific competencies, leadership skills, and enhance their professional resume.
What are the PCP program eligibility requirements?
The FAU Peace Corps Prep program is open to students of all programs of undergraduate study across the University. Students must demonstrate a 3.0 cumulative GPA prior to admission and upon completion of the program to receive the official designation.
What are the PCP program components?
Students will complete: 1.) coursework and hands-on experience in a specific work sector (education, health, environment, agriculture, youth in development, or community economic development), 2.) participate in study abroad and/or intercultural courses, 3.) complete professional and leadership development programming, 4.) maintain a 3.0 GPA upon program entry and completion.
How do I apply for the PCP Certificate?
Students may apply to start the Peace Corps Prep program as part of a fall or spring cohort. To be considered, you must submit the below Peace Corps Prep Application by the following deadlines:
Fall Cohort: April 1
Spring Cohort: November 1
Complete applications should be submitted to goabroad@fau.edu. Applications will be reviewed once the deadline has passed, and all students will be alerted within 4-6 weeks regarding their acceptance into the program.