Peace Corps Prep Program

Prepare to Make a Difference

The Peace Corps Prep Program at Millsaps College helps you build the knowledge, skills and experience needed for global service and international development work. Through a mix of coursework, hands-on learning and professional development, you’ll focus on four key areas:

1. Sector-specific skills (choose from one of six Peace Corps service sectors)
2. Foreign language proficiency
3. Intercultural competence
4. Leadership and professional development

Offered in partnership with the Peace Corps, this certificate program is open to all Millsaps undergraduates, regardless of major. You’ll gain personalized, real-world preparation for Peace Corps service or other meaningful careers in global development.

Seniors are welcome too! Previous coursework and experience may count toward the requirements.

Once completed, you’ll receive an official certificate from the Peace Corps—and a competitive edge for future service opportunities.

Why Join The Peace Corp Prep Program?

• Get hands-on experience in a service field that matters to you
• Strengthen your resume with leadership and global service credentials
• Work one-on-one with a dedicated advisor
• Gain a competitive edge for the Peace Corps or any career in service and development

Cost

Free for all Millsaps undergraduates.

Program Sectors

Choose a sector that matches your interests and complete at least 3 related courses and 50 hours of field experience.

1. Education—Support student learning in literacy, math, and science
2. Health—Promote healthy lifestyles and health education
3. Environment—Help protect natural resources and fight climate change
4. Agriculture—Strengthen food security and sustainable farming
5. Youth in Development—Build leadership and life skills in young people
6. Community Economic Development—Support small businesses and financial literacy

How It Works

1. Apply to the Peace Corps Prep Program
2. Complete the required courses and fieldwork
3. Submit your Exit Checklist and release form
4. Receive your Peace Corps Prep Certificate!

Who Can Apply?

Any current Millsaps undergraduate student is eligible.

• Seniors can apply, and previous courses may count
• You don’t need to be a U.S. citizen to earn the certificate, but you must be one to serve in the Peace Corps
• Applications are accepted year-round, with decisions made within two weeks

Ready to Get Started?

Schedule a meeting with the Office of International Education:

Marie Vanderford, M.Ed.
Peace Corps Prep Advisor
Office of International Education
A. Boyd Campbell College Center, Room 318
📞 601-974-1052
✉️ [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Peace Corps Prep Program?

The Peace Corps Prep Program is a certificate program that helps prepare undergraduate students for international service and careers in global engagement. It combines coursework, hands-on experience, and professional development to build the skills most valued by the Peace Corps and other international organizations.

Do I have to join the Peace Corps if I complete this program?

No. While many students use Peace Corps Prep as a pathway to Peace Corps service, completing the program does not obligate you to serve. It prepares you with skills and experiences that are also valuable for graduate school, nonprofit work, teaching, and international careers.

What are the benefits of completing Peace Corps Prep?

• A certificate of completion from the Peace Corps
• Strengthened application for Peace Corps service (though not a guarantee of acceptance)
• Development of cross-cultural, leadership, and professional skills
• Hands-on service and fieldwork experience
• Preparation for global career opportunities beyond Peace Corps

Who can apply to Peace Corps Prep at Millsaps?

All undergraduate students are eligible to apply, regardless of major. The program is flexible and designed to fit with your existing academic and extracurricular interests.

What are the requirements?

Students complete a combination of:

• Specific coursework related to global issues and intercultural competence
• Hands-on service or work experience in a relevant sector (e.g., education, health, environment, community development)
• Professional development activities such as résumé building, mock interviews, or language learning

Exact requirements will be outlined when you apply.

When should I start the program?

Students are encouraged to apply early in their college career (first or second year), but juniors and seniors may also apply. The earlier you start, the more time you’ll have to complete the requirements alongside your major.

Does it cost anything to participate?

No. The program is free to join and complete.

How long does it take to finish?

Most students complete the program within two to three years, depending on their academic schedule and service opportunities.

Can this program be combined with study abroad?

Yes! Study abroad experiences can count toward Peace Corps Prep requirements, especially in building intercultural competence and foreign language skills.

What do I get when I complete the program?

Graduates receive a certificate from the Peace Corps and recognition from Millsaps College, which can be highlighted on résumés and graduate school applications.

Who should I contact to learn more or apply?

Students can reach out to the Office of International Education for details, application materials, and advising support.