Your Questions Answered Here:

What if I'm a Returning Volunteer and want to obtain an MS or PhD in Geology, Geological Engineering or Geophysics?

No problem. Contact Dr. William I. Rose for further information.

What if I decide at any time to not enter the Peace Corps but just obtain my MS degree?

We understand that students may change their mind in regards to Peace Corps service during: 1) the application process, 2) after they have been accepted into the program, and 3) during their studies at Michigan Tech just prior to leaving for their PC assignment. Students accepted into the Master's International Program are accepted into our department's graduate program. Thus, it is not a problem for students to notify us of changes in their personal and professional lives. In this case, we need the student to notify us of their decision and we will work with the student to point them to the appropriate research group in our department so that they can fulfill the requirements for the MS degree.

Is financial aid available to Master's International students?

We have applied for funding to support MI students and this type of assistantship support has been granted to many students. It pays for much of the cost of study but is not equivalent to a full graduate assistantship since very heavy courseloads are required in the program. Some Master's International students may qualify for several other forms of financial aid, including loans, hourly work (on and off campus), fellowships. We cannot guarantee financial aid for Master's International students; however, please note that we will work with you to identify possible sources of funding. Also realize that MI students do not pay tuition on 7 of the 30 semester credits required for the graduate degree and students who are nominated by the Peace Corps get a tuition discount of $150 per credit.

Can I receive a PhD under this program?

Essentally yes, but you must arrange it carefully beforehand. The Master's International program is not traditionally intended for PhD students. If you wish to complete the MI program and then continue for a PhD degree, you should consider the thesis option and discuss your plan in detail with the faculty. For students who already own an MS degree and are interested in the PhD program, please contact us so we can discuss if this program will fit your professional interests and our graduate program.

I do not have a previous degree in Geology, Geological Engineering or Geophysics. Can I apply?

We consider all students with an accredited B.S. or B.A. degree in any field. We also have students in our traditional graduate programs with previous degrees in non-engineering fields (e.g., math, physics, biology, chemistry, geology, environmental science). You may have to 'make-up' some classes that are not in your background. You should communicate with Dr. Rose about this matter.

Are people who are not U.S. Citizens eligible for Peace Corps Service?

No. I get that question frequently. Some people even know that they can't but hope that MI students are an exception to the rule. All PC volunteers must be U.S. citizens.

What rules does the Peace Corps have about spouses and children or the
age of applicants?

No children under 18 except under truly exceptional circumstances (divorce with sole custody and legal responsibility with the other parent and tons of legal documentation to prove it). I just tell people with children under 18 that they cannot be in the program. Married couples must go as couples and are placed in the same location. They are harder for the PC to place, and couples must realize they have to be more flexible about the the positions PC can find for them. It is possible for PC to place a couple where one person is in the MI program and one is not. We have had two married couples and they have done great jobs. It just takes making them aware of how they are different from the typical unmarried volunteers. Older volunteers (over 40) sometimes have extra medical restrictions, but PC loves older volunteers.