Peace Corps Prep

Aurora University and the Peace Corps have developed an articulated collection of courses that, if completed, meet the requirements for the Peace Corps Prep Program (PCPP). The PCPP pathway at Aurora University welcomes students from all majors and fields of study. The articulated pathway is designed to better prepare students for entry into the Peace Corps or other professional international development careers. Associated coursework offers students a multidisciplinary approach to the topics of globalization, cultural competency, social and economic development, and humanitarian issues. In addition, it empowers students to continue developing their vocational path and outlook within international settings.

What is the Peace Corps?

The Peace Corps is a volunteer-based organization directed by the U.S. government to provide assistance and support to global social/economic initiatives by serving within international communities. Located in over 65 countries, Peace Corps volunteers serve through various settings including working with governments, nonprofit organizations, foundations, schools, and businesses to help tackle some of the greatest challenges facing those communities.

More information regarding the Peace Corps, its global initiatives, and resources for future volunteers can be found at https://www.peacecorps.gov

 

Peace Corps Prep Program Pathway

Students at Aurora University choosing to participate in the PCPP pathway must complete four learning requirements:

1. Training and Experience in Work Sector
Students must take at least 3 courses that build their capacity to work in one of the following sectors:

Agriculture (Select 3 courses from the following areas)
Biology
Business Administration
Environmental Studies and Sustainability
Finance

Community Economic Development (Select 3 courses from the following areas)
Accounting
Business Administration
Communication
Computer Science
Finance
Graphic Design

Education (Select 3 courses from the following areas)
Biology
Computer Science
Early Childhood Special Education with Bilingual/ESL
Elementary Education
English
Mathematics

Environment (Select 3 courses from the following areas)
Biology
Environmental Studies and Sustainability
Human-Animal Studies
Parks and Recreation Leadership

Health (Select 3 courses from the following areas)
Biology
Health Science
Nursing

Youth in Development (Select 3 courses from the following areas)
Coaching and Youth Sport Development
Psychology
Social Work
Sport Management

In addition, students must accumulate a minimum of 50 hours of volunteer or work experience in the same sector through one of the following options:

  • Student-teaching program
  • Internship
  • Field-work experience
  • Undergraduate research project
  • Formal volunteer program


2. Foreign Language Skills
Students should be able to communicate and interact professionally using a non-English language. Students must complete at least two (2) foreign-language courses at the 2000-level or higher, or test out at a strong intermediate proficiency level.


3. Intercultural Competence
Students must take 3 courses focused on intercultural competency, diversity, inclusion, and/or expanding their understanding of globalization. Available courses include:

Core Courses (Select at least 1 course)
COM3500 Intercultural Communication
EDU3190 Multicultural Literature for Young Adults
SOC3430 Issues in the Study of Gender and Sexuality
SOC3350 Race, Ethnicity, and Culture

Elective Courses (Select 2 courses)
BTS2010 Introduction to Black Studies
HIS3100 The African American Experience
HIS3350 The Native Americans
LTS3350 Politics and Policy in the Latino Community
PSC3300 Comparative Public Policy
REL2320 The Faiths of India
REL2330 The Faiths of East Asia
SOC3480 Globalization and Social Change
SPN3600 Latin American Civilization and Culture


4. Professional/Leadership Development
Students are expected to complete three professional development activities:

Have your resume critiqued by someone in AU Career Services or as part of your Junior Mentoring Experience.

Attend a workshop or class on interview skills at AU Career Services or as part of your Junior Mentoring Experience.

Develop at least one significant leadership experience and be prepared to discuss it thoughtfully. For example, organizing a campus event, leading a work or volunteer project, or serving on the executive board of a student organization.

Career opportunities

In addition to serving in the Peace Corps, completion of the PCPP pathway can help prepare you for numerous other career fields including:

  • Global Development (ex: USAID)
  • Community Organizing
  • Government (ex: US Department of State)
  • Public Policy/Public Administration
  • Nonprofit Organizations
  • Lobbying Agencies
  • Social Policy Institutes
  • Program Coordinator

For more information or to apply

Dr. Mark Petersen
Associate Professor of Political Science and Public Policy
630-844-3865
mpetersen@aurora.edu

 

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