Experience real Costa Rican living.
16-18 hours of credit, available fall or spring semesters
Based in San Jose, Costa Rica, the Latin American Studies program introduces students to a wide range of experiences through the study of the language, literature, culture, politics, history, economics, ecology and religion of the region. Living with a Costa Rican family, students experience and become a part of the day-to-day lives of typical Latin Americans. Students also take part in a practicum/internship and travel for three weeks to nearby Central American nations.
Students participate in one of three concentrations:
Latin American Studies: Interdisciplinary by design, students are challenged in a seminar that includes diverse perspectives, broad readings and hands-on experience in a field setting.
Advanced Language and Literature: Focuses on the social, cultural, political, economic and religious issues of Central America as presented in the literature of Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras in the 20th century. All coursework is in Spanish.
International Business: Participants will explore the objectives and potential of international business in Latin America to create profit and contribute to social progress. Christian perspectives on economic justice, stewardship, and sustainable development guide learning experiences. Through site visits, assigned readings, and a community immersion/ field experience, participants will engage the complexities of practicing business in Latin America. Syllabus available upon request.
Depending upon their concentration, students travel to nearby Central American nations including Nicaragua, Guatemala and Panama.
Bob Kilzer, Director of Study Abroad (Bob.Kilzer@mobap.edu)