Study Abroad in Heredia, Costa Rica
The Department of Spanish at Western Michigan University offers a study abroad program in Heredia, Costa Rica, in Spring
Jan. 19 to Apr. 18, 2025
Open only to currently enrolled WMU students.
Program Overview
Learn Spanish in one of the most beautiful countries in the world… Costa Rica! Explore the verdant rain forests and cloud forests, highland volcanoes and miles of tropical coastlines of the Central American country while immersing yourself in the Spanish language and culture. This unique program, located in the town of Heredia outside of San José, is designed to combine challenging academic coursework with experiential learning opportunities and volunteer sites available for student participation in the community. The included homestay and cultural activities with local University students ensure a high level of Spanish immersion and cultural experiences throughout the semester.
To Apply
Academics
A total of 12-15 credits will be transferred back to WMU. All participants will receive 9-12 credit hours at the 3000-4000 level for language and culture courses taken at the Universidad Latina. Students will also receive an additional 3 credits for SPAN 4200 as a hybrid online and experiential/service learning course.
The Universidad Latina de Costa Rica is a fully accredited university founded in 1986. It has a full range of degrees for students that come from all over the world. The university is located on a spacious campus set amongst pine trees and abundant green space for studying outside and intramural sports. First-rate academics combined with a beautiful locale make the ULatina a world-class location for study abroad. There is no better way to improve your Spanish and learn more about the culture than by living with one of our local host families.
You will have breakfast and dinner with your family during the weekdays and lunch at cafes at the university. This is the ideal program for students interested in Spanish immersion and those who would like to take classes with locals. Class size depends on the program you choose. Spanish language classes and electives, such as Latin American Civilization and Culture and Latin American Literature, are usually with 3 to 10 fellow study abroad students.
Language and elective classes are typically held in the morning or afternoon Monday through Friday. Advanced-level Spanish students are encouraged to take classes with locals. They are offered in the morning, afternoon, or evening, Monday to Friday
Administrative Organization and Student Responsibility
Students will be advised by the WMU Study Abroad office.
In addition to doing satisfactory academic work, WMU students are to comply with all rules and regulations of both WMU and the study abroad school. Any student who does not meet academic and behavioral standards may be dropped at any time.
Additional Program Information is Available from:
Professor Mercedes Tasende, Heredia, Costa Rica, program Director
Alison Sprague, Associate Director of Study Abroad
Western Michigan University reserves the right to cancel or revise the program if necessary.