The University of Denver’s Josef Korbel School of International Studies is the No. 1 Peace Corps volunteer-producing graduate school in the U.S., with 23 students currently serving abroad.
Most of the Korbel students are enrolled in the school’s Peace Corps Master’s International Program. Students enrolled in the program typically spend one year on campus, then complete 27 months of Peace Corps service while undertaking an academic project. They return to campus after their service to fulfill any remaining degree requirements.
“We are proud of our partnership with the Peace Corps,” says Christopher Hill, dean of the Josef Korbel School and a returned Peace Corps volunteer who served in Cameroon from 1974 to 1976. “Through service in the Peace Corps, students acquire valuable on-the-ground experience that complements the knowledge and skills gained at Korbel, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.”
Mike McKay, southwest regional manager for the Peace Corps, says the unique partnership between the Korbel School and the master’s program helps promote the Peace Corps mission and “reaffirms our collaboration and commitment to providing highly qualified volunteers who are committed to serving and making a difference in communities overseas.”
Since the Peace Corps was founded, 602 DU alumni have traveled abroad to serve as volunteers, the highest all-time number for any school in Denver.
The Peace Corps ranks among the top volunteer-producing colleges and universities annually, according to the size of the student body. For the complete list, visit the Peace Corps website at http://www.peacecorps.gov/media/forpress/press/2327/.