Costa Rica, San Jose
www.icds.ac.cr
Apply early. Students are accepted on a first come first serve basis.
ICDS, in conjunction with Universidad Latina de Costa Rica gives students the opportunity to learn about human development and environmental issues in Central America within the framework of an interdisciplinary semester program, ideal for both liberal arts and natural science majors. The program offers the opportunity to broaden knowledge and to experience first-hand the challenge for the sustainability of the region. This, along with ICDS' academic excellence, as well as Costa Rica's commitment to sustainability creates a uniquely rewarding learning experience.
This program offers undergraduate students the possibility to acquire in-depth knowledge on the evolution of justice and human rights in Latin America. The program takes a multi-level approach by looking at the historical, political, and legal evolution of human rights thought and practice in Latin America, and the existing institutional protection framework. Students are encouraged to engage in policy discussion aimed at seeking creative means to strengthen the human rights system and to ensure its ability to respond to the needs of Latin American societies. The methodology of the program is based on case studies and first-hand experiences of human rights scholars and practitioners. The Inter-American Human Rights Commission, the Inter-American Human Rights Court, and the Inter-American Institute of Human Rights are all located in Costa Rica.
Program participants choose from a variety of courses taught in English.
Courses taken abroad may satisfy college and departmental core requirements. Students should consult with their advisors 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.
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.
In order to give students the advantage of complete cultural and language immersion, the accommodation provided is homestays with carefully chosen Costa Rican families. The homestay cost includes a completely furnished private room, two meals per day,and laundry service.
Full-time Northeastern student, 2.75 GPA, middler (third) year or above.
Applications are available at OISP, 10 BV.
$21,400 per Semester for the 2009/2010 academic year. Includes: tuition, housing, round-trip airfare via Boston, two meals a day, and course-related field trips.
