Field Course in Sustainable Development

  Costa Rica

• San Jose: 
San Jose
• North Western Region: 
Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui,  Arenal,  Guanacaste,  Bagaces,  La Fortuna,  San Carlos
• Central Pacific Coast: 
Turrialba,  Osa Peninsula
• Eastern Lowlands: 
Bribri,  San Pedro Montes de Oca,  Gandoca,  Talamanca,  Puerto Viejo

Term: Fall, Spring 
Dates: Sept-Dec, Feb-May

Description: Field Course in Resource Management and Sustainable Development. Winner of the Iberoamerican award for Excellence in Education, 2005, The Institute for Central American Development Studies, (ICADS) offers an interdisciplinary semester program in Costa Rica focusing on development from ecological, socio-economic perspectives. Semester includes: 4 weeks of intensive Spanish and urban issues, 5 weeks in the field in managed and natural ecosystems learning methodologies of field research in social and natural sciences (banana transnational, traditional agriculture, community cooperatives; cloud forest and watershed management); 5 weeks of independent research -working in rural communities.

Highlights: Travels throughout Costa Rica with two professors. The group crosses the border to travel for five days in Nicaragua. Politically progressive, with a focus on sustainable development and conservation. The program offers homestays, as well as stays in small hotels and biological stations while travelling. Includes 90 hours intensive Spanish training.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Minimum Education: High School

Cost in US$: USD 9,300

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to American and Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Costa Rica in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups of 10-12

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Transcript
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

ICADS - The Institute for Central American Development Studies's Mission Statement: The Institute's Goals are three-fold: First, to educate first world citizens about Central America by teaching spanish and by offering academic programs that utilize a theoretically critical perspective as well as hands-on experience to help students gain insight into current social and economic realities and their effects on women, the poor, and the environment. Our secod goal is to provide as much support as possible to individuals, organizations, and communities in the countries where we work (Costa Rica and Nicaragua); especially individuals and community groups that have demonstrated a commitment to learning and/or a dedication to social justice work. Thirdly, ICADS tries to make regular donations to various local community and international organizations working on agendas consistent with the goals and philosophy of ICADS. These organizations include but are not limited to anti-hunger groups, environmental organizations, and human and animal rights groups.

Year Founded: 1986