Central America is a region of great historical, cultural, and biological diversity, with the approximately 40 million people who inhabit Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua sharing much in common. Governed in Spanish colonial times as a single unit, today they are separate countries sharing similar economic pursuits. While in the past they may have been characterized as “coffee” or “banana republics,” today their economies continue to grow more diverse, as the region takes on the twenty-first century challenges of building justice and prosperity in the context of globalization. As Costa Rica continues to grapple with issues such as poverty, public health, and environmental conservation, “Ticos” (as Costa Ricans like to call themselves) are committed to universal health care, social programs, and democratic government. Over the years, Costa Rica has always stood somewhat apart from the historical dramas of Central America, making it a fascinating comparative case and a safe observatory on developments in nation-building and sustainable development in this region so closely tied, both politically and economically, to the United States.
Since 1974, the fall ACM Costa Rica program has prepared students to explore Central America and beyond through an intensive and extremely effective Spanish language program, as well as coursework and experiences that further develop language skills, while deepening understanding in particular fields of student interest. Field trips within Costa Rica give students an appreciation for the country’s astounding biodiversity, and for the cultural and historical elements that contribute to the nation’s distinct path within Central America. A highlight of the program is a three-week experience of rural life in Costa Rica, where students live with campesino families and participate in a service learning project, while making great strides in Spanish proficiency.
Throughout this fall semester program, students live with host families in San José near to the Universidad de Costa Rica and the ACM center in San Pedro. In addition to the rural stay, the program schedule offers ample opportunities for independent travel to Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches, mountains, and forests. While all ACM courses are offered as an integral part of our program in the ACM center, a cooperation agreement with the Universidad de Costa Rica gives students access to cultural and sports facilities, and the UCR’s proximity to the program center makes it possible for students to get a taste of Latin American student life.
For more detailed information, please use the links located on the left-hand side of this page.
Quick Facts
- Term: Fall semester
- Language prerequisite: Spanish
- Language of instruction: Spanish & English
- Living arrangements: Host family
Application deadlines
March 15, 2010
Fall 2010 semester
If the deadline has passed and you are interested in applying, contact the ACM Office immediately. Late applications may be accepted on a space-available basis.
Related Programs
Program contacts
Heather Everst
Program Associate
205 W. Wacker Drive, Suite 220
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: 312.263.5000
heverst@acm.edu
More program contacts »
Publications & Resources
Costa Rica programs brochure
Costa Rica Student Handbook - Fall 2009
Profiles - ACM Costa Rica program alumni
St. Olaf article about ACM Costa Rica program - October 2009