University of Denver Graduate Students Claim Number One Spot on Peace Corps List

The University of Denver's Josef Korbel School of International Studies is the number one Peace Corps producing graduate school in the U.S. with 23 students currently serving abroad.

The majority of the 23 students are enrolled in the School's Peace Corps Master's International Program.  Students enrolled in the MI program typically spend one year on campus, subsequently complete 27 months of Peace Corps service while undertaking an academic project, and then return to campus to fulfill any remaining degree requirements.

"We are proud of our partnership with the Peace Corps," said Christopher Hill, dean of the Josef Korbel School and returned Peace Corps volunteer who served in Cameroon (1974-1976).  "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."

"The unique partnership between the Korbel School and the Master's International program helps us 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," said Mike McKay, Southwest Regional Manager.

Since the Peace Corps was founded, 602 alumni from DU have traveled abroad to serve as volunteers, the highest all-time number for any school in Denver.

According to a press release the Peace Corps ranks the top volunteer-producing colleges and universities annually according to the size of the student body.