Life Sciences, Spanish and Culture Studies
Why Study in San Ramón?
The summer San Ramón program is designed for science majors interested in learning more about ecology and conservation biology in Costa Rica and for those who want to complete a full semester of Spanish language in only 5 weeks.
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 or both summer sessions and choose from courses in three diverse academic areas: Life Sciences, Spanish Language and Culture Studies. Classes are offered in tropical ecology, conservation biology, environmental policy and other life science topics within Costa Rica. You will be able to augment your science coursework by enrolling in related field study courses that give you hands-on experience in these subjects. Also, with approval from your university, you will be able to receive honors credit for certain courses if you are in a U.S. honors program.
A minimum of one year of general biology is required for the previously mentioned subjects; therefore, non-science majors interested in tropical life science courses over the summer should consider USAC programs in Puntarenas or Heredia. The San Ramón program is also complemented by courses in Spanish language and culture 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, an optional tour and field trips to rain forests and nature reserves.
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 and is a fourteen year veteran of USAC. 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.