For over thirty years, ACM has offered two distinctive Costa Rica programs to interested students with Spanish language skills:
The fall ACM Costa Rica: Language, Society, & the Environment program prepares students to explore Central America and beyond through an intensive and extremely effective Spanish language program, as well as coursework and independent study projects that further develop language skills, while deepening understanding in particular fields of student interest. Field trips within Costa Rica give students an appreciation for the country’s astounding biodiversity, and for the cultural and historical elements that contribute to the nation’s distinct path within Central America. Students also participate in a three-week experience of rural life in Costa Rica, where they live with campesino families and gain new perspectives on the challenges of rural development while making great strides in Spanish proficiency. Starting in Fall 2011, a direct enrollment option at the Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR) provides students with advanced levels of Spanish language proficiency the opportunity to take classes at both UCR and the ACM center.
The spring ACM Costa Rica: Field Research in the Environment, Social Sciences, & Humanities program takes full advantage of local resources and scholars, while reaching out to local and international NGOs and investigators throughout the country to facilitate student research. Students spend a month in San José at the beginning of the program, to polish their Spanish and their research plans. They than fan out to the four corners of the country to carry out independent field research under the supervision of an advisor with experience and contacts in the student’s chosen field. Afterwards, students then return to San José, to analyze their data and write their final papers.
Throughout both Costa Rica program options, students live with host families, to experience cultural and linguistic immersion. In addition, the ACM typically arranges excursions, invites a variety of guest speakers, and offers opportunities for independent travel to Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches, mountains, and forests. While all ACM courses are offered as an integral part of our program in the ACM center, a cooperation agreement with the Universidad de Costa Rica gives students access to cultural and sports facilities, and the UCR’s proximity to the program center makes it possible for students to get a taste of Latin American student life.
For more detailed information about either of the ACM Costa Rica programs, please use the links located on the left-hand side of this page.
Quick Facts
- Term: Fall semester, Spring semester, & Spring trimester (Apr-June)
- Language prerequisite: Spanish
- Language of instruction: Spanish & English
- Living arrangements: Host family
Application deadlines
March 15, 2009
Fall 2009 semester
March 15, 2009
Spring 2010 semester early application date
Do I need to apply early?
The early application date is available for students whose college requires that all off-campus study applications for the entire upcoming academic year must be completed the prior spring semester. If your college does not require a spring decision for programs the following spring, you may simply apply by the regular application deadline.
October 15, 2009
Spring 2010 semester
If the deadline has passed and you are interested in applying, contact the ACM Office immediately. Late applications may be accepted on a space-available basis.
Publications & Resources
Costa Rica programs brochure
Profiles - ACM Costa Rica program alumni