The Peace Corps Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program

The Peace Corps Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program is a distinction offered to Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work who intend to continue their dedication to community service while pursuing a master’s degree. Peace Corps Coverdell Fellows at the GCSW will contribute to the civic and service needs of the Houston community and beyond through substantive internships completed alongside their academic training. Future GCSW Coverdell Fellows will embody leadership for the next generation, committed to advancing professions of purpose and impact. 

Coverdell Fellows at University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work 

Houston’s First Coverdell Program – Master of Social Work (MSW) 

Approved in 2025 for launch in the 2026–2027 academic year, the program will support one Fellow per year. Coverdell Fellows at the GCSW are provided financial support equal to at least 25% of the program’s tuition and mandatory fees with scholarships and non-resident tuition waivers as applicable. In addition, all Fellows are prioritized for a Graduate Assistant position, working within the GCSW, the Institute for Global Engagement, or another UH department that aligns with their academic and professional goals. These placements are intentionally structured to provide both financial support and meaningful, mission-driven work experience that complement the Fellows’ graduate studies and Peace Corps service background. 

Please see our partnership page for more information on benefits and opportunities: https://www.peacecorps.gov/educators-and-students/university-programs/coverdell-fellows/partner-schools/university-of-houston-graduate-college-of-social-work/

Peace Corps Mission & Strategic Goals 
The mission the Peace Corps is promote world peace and friendship by fulfilling three strategic goals: 

• Partner with the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained individuals. 
• Promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the people served.  
• Promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans. 

Through the Peace Corps, American Volunteers share their unique perspectives, abilities, and approaches overseas and—when they return home—they make a hands-on, lasting impact alongside counterparts and communities back in the U.S. 

Become a Peace Corps Volunteer 
When you serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer, you’ll travel to a different country and collaborate with members of your new community to create a positive impact on people’s lives—now and for generations to come. 

The Basics 
If you’re ready to go the distance to make a difference, the Peace Corps has a place where you belong. Volunteers serve for two years, preceded by three months of training, in assignments that span six sectors and more than 60 countries. Along the way, you’ll build meaningful relationships, exchange cultures and knowledge, and embrace the values of humility, flexibility, and hard work. Most importantly, your service has the power to transform lives—not just in the moment, but for generations to come. 
 
Eligibility 

Who can serve in the Peace Corps? 
Recent college graduates, working professionals, and retirees are all welcome to apply to the Peace Corps —you just need to be a U.S. citizen who is least 18 years old. 

Do I need a college degree to serve? 
Some Peace Corps Volunteer opportunities are open to people with a combination of job experience and education, while most opportunities require a four-year degree. 

Learn more about eligibility requirements  

Benefits After Service 
Returned Peace Corps Volunteers have access to a wide range of benefits designed to support their next chapter. These include transition funds to help ease the move from service back into civilian life, as well as opportunities to strengthen professional skills and pursue graduate education with unique benefits. Volunteers also gain advantages in federal employment, access to student loan assistance, and a variety of career resources and support. Beyond these benefits, RPCVs can continue their journey of impact through additional service opportunities that build on the foundation of their Peace Corps experience.