PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

     The Master’s International Program at Illinois State University combines graduate school with Peace Corps service. The program awards Master’s Degrees in either Economics or Political Science, each with a concentration in Non-Profit Management and Community Development. Students begin Peace Corps service after two to three semesters of on campus study which includes courses, workshops, conferences and community work experiences. Master’s International Students earn internship credit for their Peace Corps service.
     According to the Peace Corps, only 25% of all applicants are admitted for Peace Corps service. However, over 90% of Master’s International students have been admitted because these students fill "scarce skill" needs that Peace Corps has targeted in its recruitment.
     Students entering the Peace Corps will complete approximately 12 weeks of pre-service training. Upon successful completion of training, students will become Peace Corps Volunteers and begin a two-year tour of service in their country of assignment. All aspects of Peace Corps placements are determined solely by the U.S. Peace Corps.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

     Master’s International students choose from graduate programs in Economics or Political Science. Students in both programs share core courses in applied community and economic development, but may also take elective courses in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), small business, communications, and numerous other courses which help prepare students for their placements.
     Admissions requirements vary in each department. Please contact the graduate advisor for your department for more information. The Economics Department strongly suggests that applicants to its department complete at least two of these four courses before enrollment: statistics, calculus, intermediate micro-economics, and intermediate macro-economics.

ADMISSIONS

     To qualify for the Program, students must meet the admissions requirements for the Economics or Political Science Graduate Programs as well as the requirements established by the Peace Corps for volunteer service. Applicants are encouraged to submit applications simultaneously to the ISU Master’s International Program and to Peace Corps. Minority participation in the program is encouraged. Peace Corps’ Toll Free Phone Number is 800-424-8580.

     For more information visit lilt.ilstu.edu/uced/mi.htm or contact:
Director
Unit for Community and Economic Development
Illinois State University
Campus Box 4200
Normal, IL 61790-4200
Ph: (309) 438-8685 Fax: (309) 438-5228
email: ucedinfo@ilstu.edu