Semester Study Abroad/Internship Program for Social Justice - Costa Rica & Nicaragua

  Costa Rica

• San Jose: 
San Jose
• North Western Region: 
Alajuela,  Heredia,  Nicoya Peninsula,  Guanacaste,  Tamarindo,  Atenas,  Coco Beach,  San Ramon
• Central Pacific Coast: 
Puntarenas,  Jaco,  Quepos,  Cartago,  Manuel Antonio,  Escazu,  Osa Peninsula,  Tibas
• Eastern Lowlands: 
Limon,  Bribri,  San Pedro Montes de Oca,  Talamanca,  Guapiles,  Puerto Viejo

  Nicaragua

• Other Cities in Nicaragua: 
Granada,  Managua,  Matagalpa

Term: Fall, Spring 
Dates: Feb-May; Sep-Dec

Description: Seminars, site visits, readings, and coursework exploring the socio-political and economic realities that profoundly affect Central and Latin America today; intensive Spanish language study in small (max. 4) classes; and over 80 structured social justice and sustainable development oriented service learning internships in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Winner of the Iberoameican Award for Excellence in Education 2005, The Institute for Central American Development Studies (ICADS) Internship Program is aimed at students who wish to delve into women's studies, environment/ecology, healthcare, education, wildlife management and other issues as well as work on behalf of the poor, women, and the oppressed. Gain experience and fluency while working for others in health clinics, schools, feeding centers, sustainable development orgs., as well as fair trade, women's and agricultural cooperatives. Full semester credit.
Great gap year option.

Highlights:
* Over 80 structured internships available - learn by doing!
* Coursework includes: Sustainable Development, Social Justice, Globalization, Minority Issues.
* 90 hours of intensive Spanish language training in small (max. 4) classes.
* Group excursion to Nicaragua.
* Home stay - maximum one student per home.
* Full academic credit.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Qualifications: Two semesters university Spanish or equivalent.
High School Degree.

Minimum Education: High School

Cost in US$: USD 9,300

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to American and Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel Independently

Application Process Involves:

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

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