Semester Abroad - Study in Costa Rica

  Costa Rica

• San Jose: 
San Jose

Term: Fall, Spring, Winter 
Dates: January 5 - March 27, 2009; March 30 - June 26, 2009; September 28 - December 18, 2009

Description: This program is run in conjunction with the International Department of a private University, founded in 1991, in San Jose, Costa Rica. The University in its native curriculum, specializes in Design, Architecture and Art. In its Spanish exchange program, intense language immersion, combined with creative assignments and curriculum, guarantees significant strides in acquisition of the Spanish language. Program A offers different courses in Spanish Grammar and Conversation based on the use of authentic and practical contexts in order to facilitate the acquisition of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Students are coached in the analysis of linguistic and extra-linguistic elements during the reading and writing practices. All levels evaluate oral, listening, reading and writing assignments. Program B offers coursework in classes for advanced speakers with only Costa Ricans or "Ticos" to ensure total integration into the University culture. The University is located close to the center of the city of San Jose, serving a university community of approximately 1600 members. 35% of the student body is international. Class sizes are small with 10 maximum for Spanish classes and 15 for elective classes.

Program Dates:
Program A:
Winter: January 5 - March 27, 2009 (Application Deadline: November 30, 2008)
Spring: March 30 - June 26, 2009 (Application Deadline: February 20, 2009)
Fall: September 288 - December 18, 2009 (Application Deadline: August 3, 2009)

Program B:
Winter: January 12 - April 24, 2009 (Application Deadline: November 30, 2008)
Fall: September 7 - December 11, 2009 (Application Deadline: July 10, 2009)

Highlights:
* Program A is based on intensive Spanish courses, humanities courses including communication, international business, economics, Latin American and Costa Rican literature and multicultural studies. Students come from Canada, USA, Scandinavia, Western Europe and Asia
* Program B has a Design, Arts and Architectural focus, including course work in graphic design, interior design, product design, photography, marketing and public relations.
* Semester program - 3 months for Program A; 4 months for Program B
* Students take a full academic load of 12 to 18 cores semester hours in an American university system
* Credits are fully transferable to a student's home institution
* The language exchange program enables foreign students to have contact with Costa Rican students to practice their Spanish and make friends
* Housing program with Costa Rican families interested in receiving exchange students in their homes
* Independent Living Option: Available after first month in country. (Ask about terms and price reduction.)
* Free tropical dance lessons once a week
* Soccer Team games (co-ed)
* Conversation Partner program with Costa Rican Students-"Intercambios"
* Typical Latin American food cooking lessons
* Museum, Artisans Market and other visits
* Excursions organized to beaches, volcanoes and rainforest (small fee required, attendance optional).

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: 5495 USD (plus 150 USD non-refundable application fee)

* University Registration & Tuition
* Books & Materials
* Orientation consisting of: Placement exam, guides & rules to home stay program, Do's and Don'ts in San Jose, explanation of elective course schedule, safety issues & culture shock, fear & expectations sessions.
* 4 University courses: 3 Spanish modules, 8:30 to 12:30 daily; 1 Elective course in the afternoon
* University transcripts
* Housing with a Costa Rican family
* 2 Meals per day
* Airport Pickup
* English speaking Adelante staff-person on campus

Program B For Advanced Level (4 months):

* All of the above except
* Selection of 4 University Courses, as opposed to 3 Spanish modules and one Elective Course.
Note: As Program B exceeds 90 days, students must pay a 5 USD exit visa, as well as the usual 22 USD airport tax. We will assist in this process. Prices do not include additional meals, personal items and personal travel.
** Students who receive scholarships, financial aid and loans that apply to their studies at home may also be applied to study in this program **

Experience Required: no

Participants Travel to Costa Rica Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Phone Interview
• Transcript
• Written Application