Semester in Costa Rica
Latin University of Costa Rica, Heredia Campus
About the Program
Through our partner, Arcos Learning Abroad, you will study at the Latin University of Costa Rica, Heredia campus. Originally founded in 1986 as the Universidad Interamericana, the Latin University of Costa Rica is among the most renowned private universities in Costa Rica drawing students from throughout Costa Rica and the world. The university is located on a spacious, modern campus with beautiful views of Costa Rica’s mountainous central valley. First-rate academics combined with a beautiful locale make the Latin University of Costa Rica Heredia campus a world-class location to study abroad.
Class Information: 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. Classes with locals range in size from 15 to 30 students.
Facilities: The state-of-the-art campus offers open-air and outdoor common areas, a soccer field, a cafeteria serving typical Costa Rican meals and pizza, and open-air cafes for snacks or coffee between classes. There is an on-site copy center, library, indoor group and silent study areas, a computer lab, on-site nurse, and campus-wide WiFi. Student groups include a soccer team, theater group, and band.
Teaching Style: You may find that teaching styles abroad are different from what you are used to. Arcos Learning Abroad directors are always available to help arrange tutoring and any other assistance concerning the academic component of the program. With prior written notice, academic accommodations can be arranged for students with learning disabilities.
Transcript: Your transcript is issued by the Latin University of Costa Rica.
| Dates/Semester | Fall 2021 | Spring 2020 |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival Date | September 6, 2021 | January 18, 2020 |
| Classes Begin | September 7, 2021 | January 19, 2020 |
| Classes End | December 2, 2021 | April 15, 2020 |
| Final Exams | December 2, 2021 | April 15, 2020 |
| Departure Date | December 3, 2019 | April 16, 2020 |
| Deadline to Apply | April 1, 2021 | November 15, 2019 |
Credits/Classes
All students take 12 to 15 US credits per semester.
Spanish languages courses are offered at six levels, from Beginning I to Advanced II. Beginning language learners will likely only study Spanish language, but there are a few courses in English. Intermediate speakers have more options for elective courses, and advanced Spanish speakers may complete an internship and/or take courses in English or in Spanish with local students.
Elective courses in English include the following:
- Marketing in Hospitality Industry
- Human Resources in Hospitality Industry
- Food & Beverages Management
- Rooms Revenue Management
- Events Management
- Housekeeping Operations Management
- Reception & Reservation Operation
- Principles of Marketing
- Bars & Restaurants Administration II
Courses for Intermediate Spanish speakers include the following:
- Latin American Civilization & Culture
- Latin American Literature
- Phonetics & Phonology
- Business Spanish
- Latin American Film
- Advanced Grammar
- Latin American History & Culture
- Conversation & Culture
- Written & Oral Communication
- Conversation & Composition
For advanced students who have completed Advanced Spanish I prior to the program, courses are taught with local students. These include:
- Advertising
- Business
- Culture & History
- History
- Journalism
- Psychology
- Public Relations
Advanced Spanish speakers may also participate in an internship in the areas of Business, Education, Social Sciences, Engineering, Hotel Management and Social Work.
Accommodations
Housing
All students live in homestays with local families. The housing fee includes three meals per day and laundry once a week. Wifi is included.
Fees
Fall Semester 2021
Charged to OCU Student Account:
- OCU tuition and fees.
Invoiced to student by Arcos Learning Abroad:
- Homestay: $2,213
- Meal Plan: included in homestay
- Activity Fee: $983
- Airport pick-up is included for free
Additional costs that students pay directly:
- Round-trip Airfare
- Medical Insurance: OCU's travel policy may be sufficient. Students should research options based on personal needs.
- Passport and/or visa fees
- Local Transportation
- Any additional meals outside of your homestay
- Personal expenses
Download cost estimate for details.
Spring Semester 2021
Charged to OCU Student Account:
- OCU tuition and fees.
Invoiced to student by Sol Education:
- Homestay: $3,115
- Meal Plan: included in homestay
- Activity Fee: $984
- Airport pick-up is included for free
Additional costs that students pay directly:
- Round-trip Airfare
- Medical Insurance: OCU's travel policy may be sufficient. Students should research options based on personal needs.
- Passport and/or visa fees
- Local Transportation
- Any additional meals outside of your homestay
- Personal expenses
Download cost estimate for details.
Eligibility
- Sophomore standing or above at beginning of program
- Must be at least 18 years of age at beginning of program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (Students with a 2.50 to 2.99 will be considered on a case-by-case basis.)
- Good standing with OCU
Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Federal and State Aid typically apply
- Most OCU scholarships apply
Download a cost estimate to determine what a semester in Costa Rica will cost you.
Contacts in Heredia
Primary Student Contract: Brent Hunter Info@arcosabroad.com
Website: http://www.arcosabroad.com
Phone: 512-380-1706
Contact the Study Abroad Office
studyabroad@okcu.edu
405-208-5270
Clara Jones Administration Building, 2nd Floor, Suite 240
