CNU in Costa Rica

Program Locations

San José, Tortuguero, Arenal, Turrialba, and Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica

Program Highlights

• International Travel Experience — Travel to Costa Rica for immersive, on-site cultural and academic learning. Experience the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, natural parks, and wildlife across Costa Rica.
• Academic Engagement and Applied Learning — Complete written assignments, group and individual presentations, and reflective writing.
• Music, Dance, and Cultural Expression — Experience traditional and contemporary forms including calypso.
• Culinary Traditions and Gastronomy — Discover iconic dishes such as casado and gallo pinto, as well as fresh tropical fruits and exquisite coffee.
• Indigenous Heritage and Cultural Roots — Examine the lasting influence of indigenous communities on modern identity and traditions.
• Visual and Urban Arts Exploration — Analyze murals, street art, and prominent artists shaping cultural expression.
• Folklore and Storytelling Traditions — Engage with myths and legends such as La Segua and El Cadejos.
• Environmental Identity and Sustainability — Study ecological preservation, eco-tourism, and environmental movements.
• Sports and National Identity — Understand the cultural significance of soccer in Costa Rica.

Course Description

This program will provide students of different levels to immerse themselves in Spanish-speaking cultures. Students may enroll in either SPAN 200 or SPAN 370. The cultural activities and guided tours will be shared by students enrolled in both courses, but class instruction will be conducted separately.

Spanish 200 in Costa Rica is designed for students who have studied Spanish for 3 years in high school and wish to develop their language skills and cultural knowledge through real-world application and hands-on experience in an immersive environment. This course combines classroom instruction with dynamic activities and interactive experiences to deepen students’ knowledge of the Spanish language, Costa Rican history and culture, and cross-cultural abilities. With two weeks on-site in Costa Rica, students will see the direct relevance of course content through real-world language application, show their learning through practical, creative assessments, and cultivate their ability to be intercultural ambassadors.

Spanish 370 Seminar Abroad: Exploring Rican Cultures offers an in-depth exploration of the diverse cultures of Puerto Rico and Costa Rica. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students will examine the music, cuisine, literature, visual arts, urban culture, and traditions that shape these two countries. The course will explore topics such as Indigenous heritage, migration, globalization, and the environment. Students will analyze artistic movements, influential figures, and contemporary issues in both countries. Through interactive discussions, hands-on projects, and creative activities, students will develop a deeper understanding of the distinctive and shared aspects of Puerto Rican and Costa Rican cultures while fostering a greater appreciation for both countries.