Costa Rica

Costa Rica: University of Costa Rica, San José

Host Institution

University of Costa Rica, San José

Highlights

With high mountains and tropical forests nearby, the city of San José is a bustling urban center with friendly, welcoming citizens. As an intellectual center for the country, the University of Costa Rica (UCR) provides a rich social and cultural education in addition to an excellent academic experience. The intensive language program (ILP) provides exceptional training to prepare EAP students for the academic culture of UCR, and includes visits to both highland and coastal areas. The Study Center coordinates opportunities for volunteer community service and internships. (details)

Duration

Spring semester: mid-January to mid-July
Spring semester with internship: mid-January to mid-August
Fall semester: early July to mid-December
Year: mid-January to mid-December
(calendars)

Spring semester students may extend their EAP participation to the year program or to the internship option.

Academic Focus

Regular university course work with especially strong offerings in anthropology, biology, economics, environmental and ecological studies, geography, history, Spanish language and literature, and the social sciences. Courses vary each semester so students are encouraged to check course availability in the UCR online schedule of classes. In the spring semester, the Study Center organizes an optional core course to assist students in their intellectual approach to Central American issues and to prepare interested students for independent research during the second semester. For course descriptions and additional information, see the EAP Course Information page.

UC Students attend classes with host country students.

Extended internship option: Students who have successfully completed the ILP and spring semester are eligible for participation in a six-week internship program that runs through July and August, subject to approval by the Resident Director. Students planning to take two full semesters of study at UCR should consult with the Resident Director about conditions for internship participation. (details)

Language of Instruction

Spanish

Language Study

Program begins with a four-week Spanish intensive language program (ILP)

Units

Students are required to take a full-time course of study while abroad. Most students enroll in four courses per semester to meet the minimum unit requirement.

ILP: 3 to 6 UC quarter units
Semester: minimum 18 UC quarter units each semester
Internship option: 9 UC quarter units

Housing

EAP arranges homestays for students for the four-week ILP. Following the ILP, students may either choose to remain with their host families or rent apartments in San José. Students live with Costa Rican families, host country students, and other UC students. (details)

Estimated Cost

For estimated program costs, see the Financial Overview page.

To Apply

If you are interested in applying for this program, see the Selection Criteria and Application Deadlines.