API in San Jose, Costa Rica: Development Studies In Latin America

Description

The Development Studies in Latin America Program uses an interdisciplinary approach to introduce students to the main challenges of sustainable development that Latin American countries must face. Case studies from Latin America, as well as policy discussions, are features of this program. Students will complete two foundational core courses, a Spanish language course and two additional electives. Students with an advanced level of Spanish may replace the Spanish grammar course with one of the two electives taught in Spanish. Additionally, advanced level Spanish speakers may choose to complete an internship in lieu of one elective course.

The majority of the elective course offerings are taught in English, with the option for students to progressively incorporate Spanish into their coursework. Students may choose to complete readings in Spanish and submit all papers and other projects in Spanish as well. This gives this program a bilingual character which, combined with living with local families and numerous field trips to sites throughout the country, provides students with an excellent opportunity for linguistic and cultural immersion.

Teaching takes place at the Universidad Latina in Lourdes de Montes de Oca (San José), both a business and residential area to the northeast of downtown San José. Universidad Latina de Costa Rica is the country’s largest private higher institution of learning. With a student body of 16,000, the university features a very modern infrastructure, including libraries, bookstores, copy shops, coffee shops and a food court.

VOLUNTEER AND INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Students with a desire to volunteer, intern, or work on an independent study project in an area of special interest during their study abroad term benefit from the connections and resources of the ICDS. In general, internship placements are determined based on students’ interests, language proficiency, skills and experience. Depending on the organization, there may be some requirements, especially regarding the student’s Spanish level, and perhaps some special background/experience/skills that are necessary. Students may earn up to 3 credits for the completion of an internship. Pre-Departure Services: Advising, @api Online Resources, Orientation Materials and Support, Mobile Phone, Peer Mentors, Social Networking, Scholarships On-Site Services: Airport Reception, Resident Directors, API Center, Housing (including meals and laundry with host families), Tuition, Tutoring, Language and Culture Tools, Medical and Life Insurance, Excursions (overnight and international), Social and Cultural Activities, Welcome and Farewell Group Meals, Volunteer Opportunities Re-Entry Services: Re-Entry Materials and Support, Post-Program Evaluation, Transcript, Alumni Network and Development Opportunities