Faculty-led Programs

Program Overview

Are you ready for an unforgettable journey that combines cultural exploration, community engagement and breathtaking landscapes? Join the service-learning study abroad program in enchanting Costa Rica! Situated in Central America, this vibrant nation invites you to embark on a transformative adventure that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper understanding of global citizenship.

Academics

Students participating in this program will be enrolled in SOCW 4360 or EDUC 4160. The course(s) do not have a prerequisite and are open to students of all disciplines. The tuition and fees associated with the course are not included in the program fee.

Course Syllabus: TBA

Program Cost

The program cost is $ 1,530.*

Includes: Accommodations Meals Local transportation Cultural excursions Health insurance

Does not include: Tuition & fees Personal expenses Round-trip airfare

*Fees are subject to change.

Program Itinerary

For a detailed program itinerary*, visit TBA.

*subject to change based on exact dates, availability and weather conditions.

Level of Activity: Strenuous (Level 4)

The program combines community service with environmental projects, including construction, reforestation, beach cleanups, and work on agroecological farms. These tasks are physically demanding and require participants to engage in outdoor manual labor on uneven terrain. Additionally, the program features a cultural immersion component and a hike in Cahuita National Park, providing physical activity in natural settings. While the activities are not extreme, they involve sustained effort over several days, making this program suitable for those comfortable with a strenuous activity level.

If you anticipate needing any accommodations to support your participation in this program, please connect with the Office of Student Accessibility and Resources (SAR) as early as possible. The SAR team, along with the Office of International Programs (OIP), can work with you to explore accommodation options that may enhance your study abroad experience. Our office is committed to ensuring all students have access to these opportunities, though some modifications may be subject to the limitations of the host country and program environment. For assistance, please contact the SAR Office at saroffice@uttyler.edu or 903.566.7079.

Housing & Meals

Housing

Accommodations are centrally located. Free wi-fi is included.

Meals

The program includes a welcome & farewell dinner. In addition, this program includes daily continental breakfast, and daily group lunches and dinners. 

Transportation

In-country transportation is included in the program fee, i.e. group airport pick-up & drop-off and round-trip transportation for all site visits and excursions on the program itinerary. 

International round-trip airfare is not included in the program fee. Group flight purchasing for participants can be arranged by the Office of International Programs. 

Entry Requirements

Passport

All international travel requires a valid passport. The passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay. In addition, your passport must have at least six months’ remaining validity on your passport from the date of your planned return. If you do not have a passport, schedule your appointment at the UT Tyler Passport Acceptance Facility.

Visa

Utilize the U.S. State Department's Learn About Your Destination search tool to research your destination country. On the nation's information webpage, you will discover details about entry, exit, and visa prerequisites.

Vaccinations

None required.

Faculty Leader

Kristen Mycke Professor Department of Social Work kmycke@uttyler.edu

Madeline Bailey Assistant Director of Campus Activities  Student Engagement madelinebailey@uttyler.edu

 

Important Dates

Application Deadline	November 1
UT Tyler Study Abroad Scholarship Deadline	November 15
Program Fee Due Date	TBA
Program Dates	March 15-22, 2025

 

What's next?

Study Abroad Application

UT Tyler Passport

Study Abroad Scholarships