What is the Peace Corps Master's International program?
The CSUN Peace Corps Master’s International Program offers the unique opportunity to combine Peace Corps service with a master’s degree program. Prospective students apply separately to Peace Corps and to the CSUN Peace Corps Master’s International program after being admitted to Master’s degree program in Mathematics or Secondary Education, Curriculum and Instruction. Participants can expect to teach or be involved in education while abroad. Some master’s degree credit is earned during service.
Who is eligible ?
Any American citizen over 18 years old who is enrolled in Master of Science in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics or Master in Education, Curriculum and Instruction, is eligible.
451 California State University Northridge (CSUN) alumni have worked in the Peace Corps since 1961. Currently, 11 are serving.
What degrees are offered? How does it work?
Master of Science in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics
Master of Arts in Education Degree, Curriculum and Instruction
How many credits are awarded for Peace Corps service?
Secondary Education degree candidates will receive 6 units of elective course credit for their Peace Corps service. Mathematics students will be awarded 3 units for one elective course with prior approval of the Graduate Committee/Coordinator.
How long would students be on campus prior to serving in the Peace Corps?
Students from the Secondary Education MA program obtain a teaching credential. Then they will go on their Peace Corps service. After their return, students will continue their studies for a year. Typically, CSUN Math graduate students will complete all of their academic work in mathematics before starting the Peace Corps Master's International program.
What do Peace Corps Volunteers Do? Education volunteers work with local teachers to teach math, science, English as a foreign language (TELP), information and communication technologies (ICT), special education, and primary literacy. They works as teachers or team-teachers in primary or secondary schools and as teacher trainers in universities or teacher training centers. Volunteers work with teachers to improve participatory teaching methodologies, classroom management, authentic assessments, parental involvement, and gender equity in the classroom. Peace Corps service is 27 months. The Peace Corps experience will certainly enhance their resume for a future career in teaching.
How to apply
Mathematics and Education Master's International students must be already admitted into graduate degree programs before filling out an application for the Peace Corps Master's International program. This application will ask the applicant to write an essay on why they want to participate in this program. Applicants will also be required to submit a letter of recommendation addressing the student's maturity and the likelihood that he/she will complete the program. The application is available online below.
All applicants must complete the Peace Corps application and pass medical review requirements.
Recruitment starts in Fall 2011. Rolling admissions will be accepted.
Contact for CSUN Peace Corps Master's International program:
- Carol Shubin email : carol.shubin@csun.edu
- Carol Shubin webpage: http://www.csun.edu/~vcmth014
- Peace Corps Director Aaron Williams and and Provost Hellenbrand Cement the Partnership.