THE PROGRAM
This exciting program gives you the opportunity to experience life in two countries and countries: Bagaces, Costa Rica and Granada, Nicaragua. During your study abroad semester, you will improve your Spanish language capabilities, and you will apply those skills immediately with your host families and through community involvement. You will also have the unique opportunity to learn about Latin American culture through both classroom studies and interactive experiences such as field trips and community service.

THE LOCATION
You will begin your adventures in Bagaces, Costa Rica (population 10,000). Bagaces is know as the Cantón Ecólogico (ecological county) of Guanacaste. Centrally located in the province, it is less than an hour from active volcanoes and Pacific ocean beaches.

After six weeks, you will move to Granada, Nicaragua, the oldest colonial city in Continental America, founded in 1524. It sits on the shores of Lake Nicaragua and has retained much of its historic architecture.
 

HOUSING & MEALS
During the program you will be living with a host family, which offers an excellent opportunity for you to learn about family life in Costa Rica/Nicaragua, meet locals, and practice your Spanish on a daily basis! 

Accommodations are arranged with carefully selected host families. In general only one student is placed per family; in all cases, you will have your own room.

Past participants report that the informal learning with their family was as important as their classwork to their academic experience. In the words of a past student, "I was so glad to live with a host family rather than in a hotel or dorm. It was a great cultural experience."

ACADEMICS
To learn about eligibility requirements, academic offerings, and the academic calendar; click here: Academics - Costa Rica/Nicaragua 



 

SERVICE LEARNING
During the program you will participate in a two week service learning project. Here you will improve your Spanish while helping the local community!

COST
Below you will find more information on program costs: Fall 2013

PHOTO GALLERY
Want to see more pictures? Click here!

STUDENT LIFE
Past students often meet friends through their host families. Other ways students have gotten involved is by joining gyms, taking dance or cooking classes, and attending events at local universities nearby.

STUDENT EXPERIENCE
"I don´t think that there is any possible way to sum up this experience in a few short sentences, but I feel that I have learned so much about a region that is largely forgotten by the world. I have found the culture and history of these people to be absolutely fascinating, and given the opportunity I wouldn´t hesitate to do it again." (Brian N.)
   
EXPLORE NICARAGUA & COSTA RICA!
The program includes academic field trips to different locations within Costa Rica and Nicaragua.  In the previous semesters, students have taken a trip to the capitol, San Jose!

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
For more information click here

HOW TO APPLY:
To apply, read the application instructions on the How to Apply Page. Then return to this program brochure page, and click the 'apply now' button at the top of the page.