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Information About

Peace Corps Prep Program Offered at Shawnee State University

Nov. 30, 2011

Shawnee State University has recently added a new program for spring semester – the International Service and Peace Corps Prep Program (ISPCPP). It is one of only five universities in the United States to offer the program.

The program prepares students with the necessary skills, experience and academic background to be prepared to work with international volunteer service organizations, including the Peace Corps.

The curriculum includes academic coursework, language study, community service and cross-cultural experiences. Any student who has completed at least one semester and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher can apply.

The training that goes with this course will provide a foundation of knowledge about global poverty, international development issues and practical experience in interacting with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.

This program will prepare students interested in pursuing international service work or Peace Corps service after graduation. Students should apply no later than the first semester of the junior year, as it will take about two years to complete the entire program. Because some courses are only offered in alternate years, interested students should apply as early as possible.

The course work includes two years of language study, three International Service Seminars, one class on Global Poverty and International Development and two core courses.

Students will need to do several things to complete the course including:

  • Engaging in 100 hours of community service that is documented through the Center for Community Service;
  • Having a cross-cultural experience with either study abroad, an international internship or a domestic internship involving work in a cross-cultural environment.
  • Serving for at least three semesters as a peer mentor to a new international student.

For more information, contact program coordinators Dr. Tracey Henderson at thenderson@shawnee.edu or Dr. James Simmons at jsimmons@shawnee.edu or stop by the Center for International Programs and Activities.