Costa Rica, San Jose
http://www.icds.ac.cr/programs_spanishForDevelopment.shtml
Apply early. Students are accepted on a first come first serve basis.
The intensive language program "Spanish for Development Studies" is suitable for international students with a high intermediate or advanced level of proficiency in the Spanish language and whose majors and career interests in the field of international development studies will require them to develop language skills (oral, auditory, reading, writing) that will permit them to perform appropriately in a Spanish-speaking environment and to make the best out of their academic, cultural, personal and later, professional experiences within the Latin American culture.
The program consists of two components, linguistic and topical. The objectives are to train students to speak fluently in Spanish, preparing them to read texts of social, political, economic, and cultural relevance effectively, and teaching them to write different types of text cohesively and coherently so that they can communicate effectively in Spanish. The program is complemented with conferences and exercises on the topic of the week, and with a three-hour film forum weekly.
ICDS is a non-profit multidisciplinary organization, based in Costa Rica, whose mission is to promote the sustainability of the development process of Latin America and the Caribbean. To that end, ICDS undertakes research, policy analysis, academic, and professional training. The Study Abroad program is offered jointly through ICDS and the University of Costa Rica (UCR). UCR is the largest and oldest public university in Costa Rica, and boasts programs for the 30,000 student body.
Linguistic (LNSU501) and Topical (LNSU160) Components for 8 NU credits.
Courses taken abroad may satisfy college and departmental core requirements. Students should consult with their advisor to discuss the specific requirements that may be satisfied abroad.
Costa Rica, meaning 'rich coast' in Spanish, is a small mountainous country with 762 miles of coastline stretching between the Pacific and Caribbean on the narrow Central American isthmus. It is only a day's drive from its northern border with Nicaragua to neighboring Panama in the south, and it is possible to cross ocean to ocean in only a few hours. A century of democratic stability and security testifies to the commitment of Costa Rica to peace, equity, human rights, and social solidarity. This environment presents a unique experience for students to acquire in-depth knowledge of Latin American reality while being exposed to different cultures and the ecological riches of Costa Rica. The capital city of San Jose is quite cosmopolitan, boasting several excellent museums, good restaurants, and a fine climate. It also serves as an outstanding base from which to visit the many attractions of the country.
In order to give students the advantage of complete cultural and language immersion, ICDS offers homestays with carefully chosen Costa Rican families. ICDS holds a database of families residing in areas close to the campus and the ICDS office, and who are willing and qualified to host international students, according to ICDS's strict requirements.
Full-time Northeastern student, 2.75 GPA, Liberal Arts or Social Science Major, High Intermediate Level of Spanish and middler (third) year or above.
$10,700 estimated for summer term for the 2009/2010 academic year. Includes 8 NU credits, housing, roundtrip airfare, excursions & activities.
