Costa Rica: Spanish Language and Latin American Culture

One of Central America's most prosperous countries, Costa Rica attracts millions of tourists each year who come to experience its natural beauty, charming colonial-era cities, and vibrant culture. San Joaquín de Flores, where the UNH program is located, is a colorful and quaint colonial town located 10 miles from San José; only a 15-minute ride by local transportation to the town of Heredia where the Universidad Nacional is located. Everything can be reached on foot and along the way students can visit historic landmarks and buildings from the 18th century.

The program is hosted by the Instituto San Joaquín de Flores where students take courses from both UNH and local Costa Rican faculty. Local homestays are arranged for students with welcoming host families. 

There are no course prerequisites or prior language study requirements for this program and students from all majors are encouraged to apply. At the time of application, all students are expected to meet the following criteria:

• At least 12 credits earned at UNH
• A declared major
• A minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA
• Good standing with the Student Conduct System

Note the following exceptions and additional guidance

• Students who do not have a declared major or who have an established GPA between 2.0 and 2.5 may still apply. Admission will be at the discretion of the program faculty director.
• A student who is on probation, regardless of the underlying violation, must successfully petition through the Academic Standards and Advising Committee (ASAC) for permission to participate. Students who have had a past violation will also be required to petition. Please contact your Dean’s Office for more guidance and the petition form, if needed.
   

Students will take a total of 8 credits during the 8-week program, choosing from one of two tracks: either Latin American cultures + Spanish language or Latin American cultures + Environmental and sustainability program (tracks cannot be mixed).

Latin American cultures + Spanish language:

1. SPAN 526 - Introduction to Latin American Cultures (4 UNH credits; World Cultures Discovery) Significant historical, geographical, and artistic expressions of pre-Colombian and Latin America cultures. Conducted in English. Counts towards the major and the minor in Spanish.
2. One Spanish language course at the Instituto San Joaquín de Flores (4 transfer credits). May count towards foreign language requirement or Spanish major/minor credit, with prior approval.

Latin American cultures + Environmental and sustainability program:

1. SPAN 526 - Introduction to Latin American Cultures (4 UNH credits; World Cultures Discovery) Significant historical, geographical, and artistic expressions of pre-Colombian and Latin America cultures. Conducted in English. Counts towards the major and the minor in Spanish.
2. One course from the Environmental and Sustainability Program at the Instituto San Joaquín de Flores (4 transfer credits). May count towards UNH Discovery or major/minor credits, depending on the course selection and prior approval. 

2027 program details coming soon. 

Program Costs: Charged on UNH account

• UNH Tuition (8 UNH credits)
• Room & board, excursions, on-site orientation (estimated): $1,500
• UNH mandatory fees
  • Study Away Administrative Fee
  • International Health Insurance and Travel Assistance Plan Fee
  • Technology Fee

Housing and Meals

All students are housed with local host families in San Joaquin de Flores. One student is housed per host family and three meals a day are provided. Host families are organized by the program's host institution, the Instituto San Joaquin de Flores, and many have hosted students regularly for years. These families are known for their friendliness and welcoming nature, and it is a great way for students to practice their Spanish language skills while also learning more about life in Costa Rica. Most students are within relatively short walking distance to the Instituto but some may rely on the bus to get to classes. Accepted students will complete a Housing Preference Form so that the Instituto can take into consideration any personal accommodations when making host family placements.

Program Includes:

• Two courses earning 8 credit hours
• Orientation session, city tours and closing ceremony
• Transportation from the airport to host family
• Homestay lodging with a Costa Rican family
• Three meals per day and laundry service
• One day-trip and one full weekend trip within Costa Rica (destinations vary each year)
• Cultural activities, community service and dancing classes

Not Included

• Roundtrip airfare to and from Costa Rica, books/supplies, phone service, miscellaneous personal/spending money.

Payment Info and Refund Policy

A $200 non-refundable deposit will be due from all accepted students. This payment will be credited towards the final tuition bill.