Financial Issues
Last modified July 29, 2010.
Tuition and fees for Master's International graduate students at Michigan Tech who have been "nominated" by the Peace Corps are $431 per credit (2009-2010). This tuition rate for graduate students in education is 31% below the standard graduation tuition rate (currently $625/credit). Students need to take at least 24 credits before leaving for their assignment. Students DO NOT pay tuition and fees for credits earned during Peace Corps training and service overseas (typically 7 credits of the 30 credit MS degree).
The area around Michigan Tech has a relatively low student cost of living. The Michigan Tech Graduate School web page has links to available on- and off-campus housing. We also recommend talking with current students to learn about the cost of attendance.
All students who are accepted into the program will be eligible for teaching and research assistant positions in the departments of Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Physics, or Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences, depending on availability of positions and the students' particular backgrounds. Some students may also be eligible for federal work-study funding. The departments and college will actively seek funding from state, federal and private sources to support students in the Master's International program. The Department of Education currently receives funding for science education professional development courses through Michigan Department of Education programs, some of which may be available to support MI students. Other potential sources of support include NSF funding through SGER or a variety of science education projects.
During your volunteer training and service, Peace Corps will provide you with a monthly allowance for housing, food, clothing, and incidentals; free medical and dental care; transportation to and from your overseas site; and 24 vacation days per year. Many student loans are deferrable during Peace Corps service as a you are enrolled at Michigan Tech as full-time student while serving in Peace Corps. This deferral process is simpler than defering as a Peace Corps Volunteer., You may be able to cancel a portion of a Perkins Loans you hold. Post-service benefits include a $7,425 adjustment allowance after successful completion of your 12 week of training and two years of volunteer service. Students can learn more about the specifics of Peace Corps financial commitment to volunteers by checking their web page (http://www.peacecorps.gov/).
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program
An Opportunity for STEM Teaching Supported by the National Science Foundation 
Tech and Portage Health to Offer Medical Discount for Peace Corps Students