Location:

Atenas, Costa Rica

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

Spend a summer in Costa Rica and examine the relationships between food systems, ecology, conservation, and sustainability. Two of the country’s most popular crops – coffee and chocolate – serve as case studies for these issues as you learn how different agricultural techniques have the potential to restore biodiversity and combat climate change. Trace the sociocultural histories of coffee and cacao, from Indigenous histories to modern production and exports, and see how people around the world can follow Costa Rica’s example of sustainability.

Program highlight:

• Visit La Iguana Chocolate Farm, where you’ll harvest cacao by hand and learn about permaculture, sustainable living, and local methods of chocolate processing.

SFS students live and study at the Center for Sustainable Development Studies. The Center is an active organic farm overlooking the vibrant Central Valley, where green is the predominant color as far as the eye can see. Dorms and classrooms intermingle with orchards and gardens, while Center dog Hera keeps watch over it all. The friendly town of Atenas is a 10-minute cab ride away, offering restaurants, shops, parks, and cultural events.

Cost:

5690 USD. Includes room and board, activities, in-country transportation, and courses. Does not include airfare.

Additional Program Information

Requirements:

18 years of age, 2.6 GPA

Scholarships:

Yes

Scholarships Description:

SFS awards more than $650,000 in need-based financial aid each year. Aid packages are usually a combination of scholarships, grants, and loans. All students are eligible to apply for SFS need-based financial aid.