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Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) may now continue their education and service to U.S. communities through the Paul D. Coverdell Fellowship Program at Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston.

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Program benefits

RPCVs accepted into the Coverdell Fellows Program will receive a financial award package equal to full-ride in-state tuition and mandatory fees through the Lillian Eriksen Memorial Endowed Scholarship for Global Health. Out-of-state tuition will be waived for recipients who are not Texas residents, although students must live in Texas by the first day of class.

Internships

As a part of the fellowship, each student will complete a 150-300 hour internship supporting a community in the U.S. The internship will closely track with the student’s academic program and will overlap with clinical, practicum, or scholarly experiences where possible. 

Eligibility

Applicants must meet Peace Corps Coverdell Fellows eligibility requirements, including documented RPCV status. Fellows will be selected through a competitive process. Selection criteria include:

  • Commitment to service with underserved populations
  • Academic readiness and leadership potential
  • Relevance of Peace Corps service to nursing and public health goals 

How to apply

RPCVs may apply for Coverdell Fellowship when they are notified of acceptance into the BSN, DNP, or PhD program. Contact Dean Diane Santa Maria for more information.