(UWG) Spanish and Geography in Costa Rica

Program Description:

The Spanish program is excited to offer a study abroad collaboration with Geography focused on sustainability in Costa Rica in 2027.  Students will live with Costa Rican host families, study Spanish (all levels) and the Geography of Sustainability on the Pacific Coast while enjoying excursions, cooking classes, yoga and surf lessons. The group will also learn about coral reef preservation and explore how the country maintains sustainable tourism while protecting its rich biodiversity.

While abroad, students will stay with vetted Costa Rican host families. These host stays will provide linguistic and cultural immersion, as the families will serve as the student's anchor, providing breakfast, family outings, and consistent language reinforcement.

In addition to taking courses during the day, students will also have the opportunity to participate in various extracurricular activities like surf lessons, Latin dance classes, cooking classes, and yoga. Importantly, students will also participate in an experiential learning opportunity in collaboration with a local non-profit that focuses on coral reef restoration and beach health. This is in addition to participating in ecotourism on the weekends in the Monteverde rain forest with ziplining, volcanic hot springs, and a nocturnal animal walk. On the last weekend before returning to Atlanta, students can participate in outdoor recreational activities at Rincón de la Vieja including horseback riding, tubing, and repelling.

Dates: May 16^th - 30^th 2027

Application and non-refundable $100 deposit: due December 15^th

For questions, please contact:

• Dr. Dahms: edahms@westga.edu
• Dr. Gerhardt: hgerhard@westga.edu

The Office of Education Abroad, email goabroad@westga.edu.

May is the start of the rainy season in Costa Rica. You can expect clear sunny morning followed by afternoon rain showers and high humidity. Temperatures will be between 75-92 degrees Fahrenheit.

Student can participate in physical activities like surf lessons, Latin dance classes, yoga, ziplining, walking, horseback riding, tubing, and repelling.

Students accepted into the program who anticipate the need for accomodations are encouraged to contact Accessibility Services and the program director as early as possible to discuss potential accommodations and accessibility needs prior to departure.

U.S. Embassy San José
Calle 98, Via 104
Pavas
San José, Costa Rica

Main telephone: +506-2519-2000
Emergency after-hours: +506-2220-3127
Email: ACSSanJose@state.gov

Emergency Contact Information:

Dial 911 for police in Costa Rica.

If You Need Medical Attention:

Contact the U.S. Embassy/Consulate for appropriate medical care assistance
Use Emergency Number: 911

If You're a Victim of Crime:

Contact nearest Embassy or Consulate
Use Emergency Number: 911

If Arrested:

Ask authorities to notify U.S. Embassy/Consulate
Consular officers can provide legal assistance list, visit you, and contact family. 

Courses

• All Levels of Spanish
• GEOG2202 or GEOG 3405

Tentative Program Cost: $5,285

Application and non-refundable $100 deposit: due December 15^th

Additional Costs:

• UWG Tuition (paid separately)
• Touchnet payments include 3% non-refundable fee
• Host families will provide breakfast. Students will be responsible for lunch every day, and most students elect to sample local restaurants in groups.

Estimated Guaranteed Scholarship: $1,075

Important Notes:

• Deposit is non-refundable
• Lack of visa/passport may result in complete loss of program fee

For questions, contact: goabroad@westga.edu