Costa Rica: Natural Habitats, Environment, History, Culture and International Business


Costa Rica offers visitors a rich experience of diverse cultures, the intersection of global business interests, a vibrant environment with important biodiversity, and a rich historical heritage. Over the past decades, Costa Rica has emerged as a vibrant political and economic country that has forged a commitment to business development and preservation of the environment. It is a unique place to explore issues around international business, Latin American history and politics, biology and environmentalism, and the challenges of reducing poverty in countries where there has been a history of economic exploitation. This program is a great program for interdisciplinary short-term study tours for colleges/universities. It helps cultivate world citizenship and compassionate living through activites associated with program objectives below.

Program Highlights and Objectives

Visits to historical and cultural centers

The program includes visits to cultural and historical centers in the capital city and discussions with local experts at the University of Costa Rica about Costa Rican history and cultural development.

Visits to International business centers

The program includes organized visits to international and local corporations to explore various aspects and impacts of international and local investment in the economy of Costa Rica with an opportunity to visit sites and speak with executives.

Visits to agricultural centers

Costa Rica has a long history of producing bananas and coffee. Visits to agricultural centers offer an opportunity to consider the impact of these industries on the local population and the local environment and reflect on the intersection of global markets and local community interests and well-being.

Visits to Ecoparks

The program includes visits to ecological reserves to experience the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica and to see how local officials are integrating interests in preserving the environment and continuing to promote economic development for the population.