Life Sciences, Spanish and Culture Studies
Why Study in San Ramón?
The San Ramón program is designed for science majors interested in learning more about ecology and conservation biology in Costa Rica. Costa Rica is well known for its extraordinary natural beauty, preserved in its many national parks and reserves, and it is at the forefront of the ecotourism movement. You may stay for one semester or a full year, and choose from courses in tropical ecology, tropical marine biology, conservation biology, environmental policy and other life science topics within Costa Rica. You will be able to augment your regular coursework by enrolling in several related field study courses that give you hands on experience in these subjects. Also, with approval from their university, students in U.S. honors programs will be able to receive honors credits for certain courses.
A minimum of one year of general biology is required for the above mentioned subjects; therefore, non-science majors interested in Tropical Life Science courses should consider USAC programs in Puntarenas or Heredia. The San Ramón program is also complemented by courses in Spanish Language (you may complete up to one year of Spanish language per semester) and Culture or Area Studies.
However, these academic courses are only part of the value of the program. Participation in formal and informal activities also provides valuable learning experiences and interaction with the local culture. These activities include cultural events, village festivals and field trips around San José, to the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, the rain forest, nature reserves and parliament and governmental entities.
The San Ramón program has a Resident Director who is responsible for the overall operations of the program abroad: securing appropriate student housing, hiring outstanding faculty, organizing exciting field trips and optional tours and overseeing your general well-being.
Dr. Carlos Salas, a Costa Rica native, is the Resident Director for the San Ramón program. Carlos earned his Ph.D. from the University of Kansas and is fluent in Spanish and English. He will meet the group flight at the airport, take you to your housing and provide an on-site orientation. The USAC office staff also provide support and resources while you are on the program.