How to Secure the Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Fellowship Nursing Scholarship at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing – Baltimore, MD.

If you’re a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) looking to further your service-driven career in healthcare, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing (JHUSON) offers a powerful opportunity through the Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Fellowship, part of the prestigious Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to successfully secure this fellowship and start your journey toward becoming a nurse leader.

🧭 What is the RPCV Fellowship at Johns Hopkins School of Nursing?

The Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Fellowship is a competitive scholarship for RPCVs pursuing graduate nursing education at JHUSON. It provides financial aid, hands-on experience in underserved communities, and a platform to transform your global service into a lifelong healthcare career.

As part of the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program, the fellowship emphasizes service to underserved populations, both domestically and globally.

🎓 Who is Eligible?

To qualify, you must:

• Be a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer with a Certificate of Completion (COS) and Description of Service (DOS)
• Apply to one of the eligible graduate nursing programs at JHUSON
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to community service and health equity

📘 Eligible Programs at JHUSON

The fellowship can be applied to these programs:

• MSN: Entry into Nursing (for those without a prior nursing degree)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – including advanced practice specialties
• PhD in Nursing
• DNP Executive Track (for experienced nurses seeking leadership roles)

Note: Most RPCVs without a nursing background apply to the MSN Entry into Nursing Program.

💰 What Does the Fellowship Cover?

While exact benefits may vary, the RPCV Fellowship typically includes:

• Tuition support (partial scholarships—amount varies by program and funding availability)
• Paid service-learning practicum in a U.S. underserved community
• Professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities
• Connection to the global health and Peace Corps alumni network at Johns Hopkins

📝 How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how to successfully apply for the fellowship:

1. Research the Program

Start at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing Coverdell Fellows page. Read about the specific requirements for your intended program.

2. Prepare Your Nursing School Application

Submit your application via NursingCAS. You’ll need:

• Transcripts
• Resume/CV (highlight Peace Corps experience)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement/essay connecting your Peace Corps service to your nursing goals

3. Indicate Fellowship Interest

On the application, specifically mark your interest in the Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Coverdell) Fellowship. If there’s a section for scholarships or fellowships, be sure to select this option.

4. Upload Peace Corps Documentation

Include:

• Certificate of Completion (COS)
• Description of Service (DOS)

5. Submit by the Priority Deadline

For full consideration, submit your application by the program’s priority deadline (usually several months in advance of the start date). Early applications have the best chance at financial aid.

🧠 Tips to Strengthen Your Application

1. Write a compelling personal statement: Tie your Peace Corps service to your nursing goals. Use specific examples of health education, community work, or crisis response.
2. Show commitment to underserved populations: Emphasize your desire to continue working in communities with limited access to healthcare.
3. Get strong recommendations: One or more of your recommenders should speak to your Peace Corps impact and your potential in healthcare.
4. Connect with JHUSON Admissions: Reach out to nursingadmissions@jhu.edu with questions. They’re responsive and may even help connect you with current students or alumni.
5. Mention future goals: Talk about how this program aligns with your long-term mission—whether that’s global health, policy, research, or direct patient care.

📆 Deadlines & Timing

• Fall Admission (MSN Entry): Deadlines usually range from November to January
• Spring Admission: Submit by late summer (August/September)
• Check the JHUSON Admissions Deadlines page for the most current dates.

🌍 Life After the Fellowship

Graduates of the Coverdell Fellows Program at JHUSON are leaders in:

• Public health nursing
• Primary care and advanced practice
• Global and community health
• Healthcare leadership and policy

You’ll be well-prepared to work in underserved communities, influence public health systems, and lead in national or international settings.

💬 Final Thoughts

If you’re an RPCV ready to turn your global service into a nursing career that makes an impact, the Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Fellowship at Johns Hopkins is a rare and powerful opportunity.

By combining world-class education, service-based training, and a commitment to health equity, this fellowship lets you continue doing the work you love—on a whole new level.

🔗 Helpful Links:

• Johns Hopkins School of Nursing Admissions
• Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program Info
• Contact JHUSON Admissions