Paul D. Coverdell Fellows – Peace Corps Partnership
Graduate Scholarships for Returning Peace Corps Volunteers.
At the University of Maine, we deeply value the service and commitment of Returned Peace Corps Volunteers. You bring diverse experiences, global perspectives, and a dedication to building stronger communities. To honor that service, the University of Maine, in partnership with the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program, offers renewable scholarships covering full tuition and mandatory fees for up to 30 credits total in the Master of Arts in Global Policy (1 scholarship) program and provides partial funding for students in the Master of Social Work (3 scholarships) program.
About the University of Maine’s School of Policy and International Affairs (SPIA)
The University of Maine’s School of Policy and International Affairs (SPIA) offers an ideal next step for those committed to global service and leadership. With its Master of Arts in Global Policy and concentrations in Environmental Policy, Climate Policy, Trade & Commerce, and Security & Foreign Policy, SPIA equips students with the analytical tools and professional skills needed to address today’s most pressing global challenges.
SPIA’s interdisciplinary curriculum integrates thematic and regional courses, encouraging students to approach political, social, economic, and environmental issues from multiple perspectives. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving in complex settings, and real-world application, allowing students to deepen their policy knowledge and translate lived or professional experiences into impactful global careers.
With small cohorts, personalized faculty mentorship, and a strong commitment to international service, SPIA fosters a close-knit and supportive community where students can thrive. Whether building on Peace Corps service or other international experiences, students find SPIA to be more than a degree, it is a continuation of their mission to engage across cultures, shape policy, and make a meaningful difference in the world.
apply to the master of Arts in Global Policy program
Review of the applications to the University of Maine SPIA Coverdell Fellows program starts in January and students should have the results by mid-March. Coverdell Fellowship recipients will be notified of their award as part of the general admissions process. Returning Peace Corps Volunteers will indicate their status on the application form, and will be automatically considered for the Coverdell Fellows scholarship funds.
About the University of Maine’s Master of Forestry (M.F.) Program
The University of Maine’s Master of Forestry (MF) program is a practical, career-focused path. Unlike research heavy programs, this professional, non-thesis degree emphasizes real world skills and applied learning. The degree is accredited by the Society of American Foresters and prepares graduates for immediate careers in forest management. One of the program’s biggest strengths is its flexibility and accessibility. It welcomes both students with forestry backgrounds who want to deepen their expertise and those from other disciplines seeking a career change into forestry. This makes it an ideal option whether you are building on prior experience or starting fresh. Students also benefit from hands-on learning opportunities, paid internships, working with faculty experts in Maine’s extensive forest ecosystems and gaining practical experience in areas like forest management, ecology, and policy. The program culminates in a capstone project, often a comprehensive forest management plan, allowing you to apply your knowledge to real world challenges.
apply to the master of Forestry program
The MF program requires college transcripts with above a 3.0, but considers a 3.5 to be highly competitive. 3 letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a 65 USD application fee which should all be submitted via the UMaine Graduate School online application. Candidates usually do a phone call or zoom with the Coordinator of the Program to make sure the fit is right for the program.
About the University of Maine’s master of social work program
As a Top-100 US News and World Report degree and a Top-20 Most Affordable Social Work Program, the University of Maine Master of Social Work program in the School of Social Work (SSW) has been educating graduate social workers since 1988. We take pride in preparing effective advanced generalist social workers capable of practicing with autonomy and skill in diverse social welfare, health, and human services settings.
We admit small cohorts to give you the opportunity to form a deep connection with the material and the community. At the University of Maine, we create a culture of inclusiveness and seek talented students from all backgrounds who bring diverse ideas and perspectives to the classroom and beyond. Our full-time curriculum is designed to be completed in as little as five semesters, with supervised field placements beginning in your first semester of graduate study.
apply to the master of social work program
Applications to the University of Maine Master of Social Work Coverdell Fellows program are due by the deadline for admission listed on the MSW program page. Returning Peace Corps Volunteers will indicate their status on the application form, and will be automatically considered for the Coverdell Fellows scholarship funds.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS FOR
RETURNING PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEERS
MSW Program
The scholarship is renewable and will cover year-round full-time tuition (9 credits spring and fall, 6 credits summer). Your application fees will be waived, and out-of-state students will be granted the in-state rate for any additional credit hours taken above those covered by the scholarship. Additionally, as a Coverdell Fellow, you will receive specialized assistance in selecting internship sites that help to fulfill your educational and career goals and in keeping with the values you learned as a Peace Corps volunteer.
M.A. in Global Policy Program
The Coverdell Fellowship is renewable for up to two years and covers full tuition and mandatory fees for the 30-credit Master of Arts in Global Policy program. As a Coverdell Fellow, you will also receive dedicated support in selecting internships that align with your academic and career goals while reflecting the values of your Peace Corps service.
Master of FOrestry Program
At any point Coverdell Fellows can choose to apply for any on campus Graduate Assistantships which come with full tuition, 65% health insurance, 50% dental insurance, and a monthly stipend in return for 20 hours a week of work. If a student is granted this opportunity they can choose to forgo the Coverdell Scholarship for another RPCV.
To Qualify for The SPIA, MF or MSW coverdell fellowship:
Learn More
SPIA
Peter Fandel
peter.fandel@maine.edu
Katy Blackmer
katy.blackmer@maine.edu
School of Forest Resources
William Livingston
williaml@maine.edu | 207.581.2805
School of Social Work
Jennifer Crittenden
jennifer.crittenden@maine.edu | 207.581.2495
