Heredia, Costa Rica
Costa Rica Bound!
Elevate your education and embrace the pura vida lifestyle.
University of Delaware students can embark on a transformative personal and professional journey with the exclusive UD faculty-led study abroad program in Costa Rica. Immerse yourself in a land of thrilling adventures, where lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and active volcanoes become your classroom. Experience an exceptional climate that fosters both personal and academic growth. Our study abroad program blends exciting outdoor activities with unique academic courses, offering a singular learning experience. Engage in hands-on research, explore vibrant ecosystems, and enhance your Spanish proficiency in an immersive cultural setting. Join us for an unforgettable adventure, where academic excellence meets the excitement of Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Learn more and apply — Visit UD's Center for Global Programs & Services
Quick Facts
| When | January 6–30, 2025 (tentative dates) |
| Where | Heredia, Costa Rica |
| Host Institution | Universidad Latina de Costa Rica (ULatina) |
| Program Costs | This year’s program fee is $2,950 and includes a homestay (single or with another UD student) with breakfast and dinner; health insurance; various in-country excursions; airport pick-up and drop-off in Costa Rica; ULatina management, instruction and class space; UD course and on-site program management; Pre-departure orientation and materials. Not included: Airfare to Costa Rica ($1,200), local transportation, and UD tuition and fees ($2,633 for residents and $7,065 for non-residents based on current year). Scholarships and awards are available; learn more about financing your trip abroad. |
| Application Deadline | April 20, 2024 |
| Credits | 3–6 |
| Instructional Language | English and Spanish |
| Courses | LLCU 207-071: Cultures in Context (4 credits, taught in English). Explore Spain’s history and culture! Deepen your understanding with thought-provoking readings and discussions. Immerse yourself in hands-on research, unraveling the intricacies of the host culture. This unique academic journey broadens perspectives and provides an immersive exploration of Costa Rica's vibrant heritage. Join us for a course that transcends traditional learning, connecting you deeply to the essence of Spanish culture. Satisfies the University History Breadth, Arts and Sciences Group B, and Multicultural. SPAN 107-070: Spanish III – Intermediate (4 credits, taught in Spanish). Reinforce grammar concepts, hone speaking and writing skills, and tackle moderately challenging reading materials in this comprehensive review. Prerequisite: SPAN 106, four years of high school Spanish, or permission of placement advisor or program director. Satisfies the Arts and Sciences Foreign Language requirement, COE EG Breadth Requirement. SPAN 206: Culture through Conversation (3 credits, taught in Spanish). Explore subjects rooted in contemporary Spanish or Latin American life in this dynamic course. Tailored for students eager to expand their understanding of Hispanic culture, the program offers a platform for enhancing both oral and aural language proficiency. Engage in insightful discussions that provide a nuanced insight into the vibrant and evolving facets of Spanish and Latin American society. Elevate your language skills while delving into topics that mirror the pulse of the present, fostering a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness and diversity within the Hispanic world. UNIV 370: Study Abroad – Costa Rica SPAN (0 credits, pass/fail). This course asks students to reflect upon changes in their knowledge, skills, and attitudes that result from their participation in this study abroad experience. Satisfies Discovery Learning requirement. |
| Program Director | Dr. Alexander Selimov, 236 Jastak-Burgess Hall, selimov@udel.edu |
Want to know more?
Visit the Languages, Literatures and Cultures booth at the Study Abroad Fair on Monday, February 16, 2024, or join us at an upcoming interest meeting / information session:
3/07/2024 |
3:30 – 4:30 p.m. |
102 McDowell Hall |
3/19/2024 |
4:00 – 5:00 p.m. |
102 McDowell Hall |
4/09/2024 |
4:00 – 5:00 p.m. |
102 McDowell Hall |
Student Testimonials
Don’t take our word for it — Check out what UD students had to say!
Katelyn Shelly
"We were able to walk through densely forested areas full of exotic wildlife to picturesque beaches. I loved watching the monkeys jump from tree to tree playing with each other and even trying to steal snacks from unsuspecting tourists!"
"I think what had the most personal impact on me was my experiences with my host parents and their family. If it weren’t for them making me feel “at home” here in Costa Rica, I probably wouldn’t have enjoyed all the other things as much as I did."
Isiah Hiatt
Degree: 2021, B.S. in pre-veterinary medicine
"If you ever go abroad, you need to talk to the locals because it really lets you know what the culture is like and just lets you get a better feeling for the country."
"We went on a night tour and were able to see some of the nocturnal animals and get a good look at Costa Rica’s diverse animal population. We saw frogs, snakes, toucans, a porcupine that was in a tree, and many more.
Natale DePase
Degrees: 2019, B.S. in environmental science and 2024, B.E. in civil engineering
"I’m ready to learn about the Costa Rican culture. I’m ready to meet my host family. I’m ready. So as I embark on this new journey, I vow to live in the moment and to take it all in.
Alexandra Lebeau
Degree: 2017, B.S., pre-veterinary medicine and animal biosciences
"My study abroad experience in Costa Rica continuously showed me how nature can make an appearance in even the most basic parts of your life. Exotic species, such as toucans, scarlet macaws, agoutis, and even tree frogs cross your path and enter your daily life.."
Explore other faculty-led study abroad programs offered by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures.
