1. COSTA RICA Study Abroad Winter Intersession 2016/2017 (Dates determined after LU schedule is posted)

2. Where is Costa Rica?

3. We are there to study… Economic development Tourism and ecotourism
Sustainability
How Costa Rica has transformed itself into a leading destination for Ecotourism.
Ways in which Costa Rica is committed to a sustainable environment.
How Costa Rica has distinguished itself from other Central American nations.

4. Where we are heading to…
Pal Michal (coffee growing region in rural area)
Monteverde (in the cloud forest)
Rancho Margot (sustainable farm)
Arenal/La Fortuna (home of Arenal volcano)
Puerto Viejo (in the Caribbean)
Yorkin (an indigenous area near Panama)

5. Learn about banana, pineapples, and coffee industries

6. Visit cloud forests and learn about conservation, reforestation, etc.

7. Trek in the rainforest too!

8. See Exotic Wildlife in their natural environment

9. Live on a sustainable farm (with a NEGATIVE carbon footprint)

10. Live in an indigenous village at a community-based ecotourism project

11. Interact with locals in meaningful ways

12. Zip-line over the continental divide

13. Experience the Caribbean

14. Enjoy the natural environment

15. See daily doses of beauty!

16. Econ 301: Sustainability, Ecotourism, and Economic Development in Costa Rica
Prerequisite: NONE
Course open to all majors
Material taught in very accessible way
Class taught online before departure and finished abroad
No book to purchase
Waives Gen Ed Goal 9 (which creates 3 free-electives)
Instructor: Dr. Melanie Marks

17. Econ 301: Sustainability, Ecotourism, and Economic Development in Costa Rica
Topics include:
Economy of Costa Rica and Latin America
Sustainable Development
Tourism and Ecotourism
Banana, pineapple, coffee industries
Role of Trade
Free Trade Movement
Green GDP measures
Social Issues

18. Expected Cost: $2199
Includes airfare, housing, domestic transportation, activity fees, and almost all meals.
Payments spread over several months.

19. INTEREST MEETINGS:
Check the Study Abroad website where you found this link.
Or contact Dr. Marks for dates at

20. Complete a study abroad application for Faculty Led Programs
Ready to sign up?
Complete a study abroad application for Faculty Led Programs
Complete Medical Form
Have parent sign Conditions of Participation
Bring to Dr. Marks in Hiner 205
Questions? Contact me at