University of Costa Rica, Costa Rica
The Washington College in Costa Rica Program is a tuition only exchange program based at University of Costa Rica, known in Spanish as the Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR). One of the oldest democracies in the Americas, Costa Rica is also considered one of the most biologically diverse countries on earth. It covers only .03% of the world's surface (roughly the size of West Virginia) and yet has an astonishing 5% of the world's life forms. With a population of approximately three million people, Costa Rica is a country that enjoys immense diversity of climates and environmental regions.
Costa Rica, or "rich coast" in English, is bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the southeast. It is endowed with a virtual treasure trove of palm-fringed Caribbean beaches, steaming volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, forested mountains, dense rain forests, dramatic cloud forests, and rustic countryside. Its people pride themselves on peace and friendliness while the rich biodiversity lends opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.
Faculty
Classes will be taught in Spanish by UCR faculty members. A UCR faculty member conducts the exchange student advising.
Requirements
All well-qualified sophomores and juniors are eligible to apply for the exchange program. This program is open to students in all majors. Students should meet the following prerequisites:
- Intermediate proficiency in Spanish GPA of 2.5 or above Evidence of good character, maturity, and motivation
- Ability and willingness to adapt to a foreign environment.
The cost of international transportation between the United States and Costa Rica, housing, meals, local transportation while in Costa Rica, books, student government fees, extracurricular activities, expenses while UCR is not in session, health insurance, and personal expenses are the responsibility of the student unless other arrangements have been made.
Students should make an appointment to speak to their Director of Financial Aid to discuss the financial aspects of the program they plan to attend.
Living Arrangements
Students will live in private Costa Rican homes. The Oficina de Asuntos Internationals y Cooperacion Externa will assist with placements.
Curriculum
Students will be able to take courses in the following disciplines: Art, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Drama, Economics, Education, English Language, History, Humanities, Mathematics/Computer Science, Music, Philosophy, Physical Education, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology.
Approximate Semester Date:
- Fall: Early August to late November
- Spring: Early March to late June
- or one academic year