San José, Costa Rica. Photo by Cesar Badilla Miranda
Immersive Learning Program in San Jose, Costa Rica
Click here to download the 2025 Program brochure
Overview
Located in San Jose, Costa Rica, our program is designed for students who want to improve their Spanish through immersive, hands-on experiences. It combines language learning with essential skills like critical thinking, communication, and cultural awareness. Students will participate in coursework and community activities to reach these goals.
Intercultural Learning and Service Work
A key part of our program is the intercultural learning component. Students must complete 45 hours of service work with local organizations, including health clinics, NGOs, and schools, all located in San Jose. This allows students to engage with the local community and understand various cultural and societal contexts, enriching their appreciation of Costa Rican life. Additionally, students will complete reflective assignments to consider their experiences, and the lessons learned, meeting the intercultural learning goals of the program.
Course Enrollment
Students are required to enroll in two courses:
SPN3573 Immersion in a Hispanic Community (45 hours of service work + homework)
AND
↪️ SPN2271 Intensive Intermediate Spanish (This course combines SPN2200 and SPN2201 into a single intensive course.)
OR
↪️ SPN3520 Culture & Civilization of Spanish America
By the end of the program, students will have completed 6 credits.
Cultural and Educational Excursions
Our curriculum leverages Costa Rica’s rich cultural and historical backdrop through educational excursions to various significant sites. These visits not only enhance students’ understanding of Costa Rican history and culture but also integrate directly with their language studies, providing a cohesive and enriching educational experience.
San Jose City Tour (Guided)
Don Juan: Chocolate, Sugar Cane and Coffee Tour
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
Selvatura – Sloth Sanctuary (Guided)
Toucan Rescue Ranch
Banana Plantation Tour (Guided)
Organic Pineapple Tour (Guided)