College Students

"I thought about how I could get myself overseas and get a firsthand education in development. But for the kind of position I wanted, I would have had to work in some company for a minimum of five years. A friend from college who had worked for nearly 10 years for various international development organizations shared with me his Peace Corps experience, which influenced me to join."

Lanette Woo (Thailand 1995-1997)

Have a liberal arts degree and aren't sure what to do with it? Maybe you're working in a skilled trade and taking community college classes. Or perhaps you're still in college and are exploring options for after graduation.

We want to hear from you.

Many applicants are concerned that their specific major or field of study does not match up directly to any Peace Corps program. Don't worry! Many Peace Corps Volunteers are college graduates with degrees in liberal arts such as history, political science, English, social studies, or psychology. Others have degrees in photography, theater, and other fine arts. And of course, people with degrees in business, engineering, and the sciences have skills that translate well to many Peace Corps programs, including business development, environmental programs, information technology, and health education.

What if you don't have a four-year degree? The Peace Corps has opportunities for individuals without degrees who have professional skills and work experience (in such areas as business, technical trades, and agriculture) and a commitment to service. And if you have a community college education, your work experience or training in a specific area may qualify you for certain programs.

Computer skills and previous work as a counselor, as a volunteer in your community, or as an assistant in a classroom setting are the kinds of experiences that are needed in all countries in which the Peace Corps has programs. And, if necessary, your Peace Corps recruiter can suggest a range of activities that you can undertake now to help sharpen your skills for a Volunteer assignment.

So take the next step. Talk to a recruiter about how you can contribute your education, experience, and skills toward Peace Corps service.

Associate Degree Eligibility

If you are have a community college education, your work experience or training in a specific area may qualify you for certain programs.

Last updated Sep 24 2008