“I chose IFSA because I was impressed with how well it was organized, how accessible the staff was, and how immersive the program was. I also really liked that IFSA organized excursions, making it easier to see Costa Rica’s highlights and hidden treasures.“
Heredia, Costa Rica
January in Costa Rica






- ABOUT
- ACADEMICS
- EXCURSIONS
- DAY-TO-DAY-EXPERIENCE
- DATES AND FEES
About January in Costa Rica
You'll bask in near 80-degree days as you explore Heredia, ecological sites, national parks, beautiful beaches, and nearby hiking trails. Your three-week Ecology and Sustainable Development class, perfect to fulfill an elective or science requirement, will build your understanding of the recovery, preservation, and protection of the environment. With activities included, your stay in Costa Rica will be even more valuable and memorable.
Academics at January in Costa Rica
Ecology and Sustainable Development in Costa Rica
(3 U.S. Semester Credit Hours)
Exploring environmental conditions in Costa Rica through practical field experiences, this course addresses the importance and challenges of ecological recovery, preservation, and protection. Using interdisciplinary approaches, students will confront the task of society to raise awareness for conserving natural resources long-term in Costa Rica and globally. Students will also expand theoretical concepts of ecology and its history in Costa Rica by examining the socio-economic and political relationships that promote—or sometimes prevent—sustainable goods and services such as ecotourism, development, and conservation research.
To make the most of your three weeks in Costa Rica, IFSA takes your learning outside the classroom with multiple co-curricular activities each week – to introduce you to an incredible, biodiverse landscape and the locals who are committed to protecting it. These experiences may include:
- A day trip to the Irazú volcano and a nearby coffee plantation.
- Hiking in national parks and discussion of Costa Rica’s national park system and management.
- A day trip to Sarapiqui to participate in a native tree reforestation project.
- A visit to a sustainable chocolate farm and processing plant.
- A meeting with owners of environmentally friendly hotels to discuss eco-tourism.
After you return to the U.S., IFSA will send an official Butler University transcript to your home university with your coursework converted to the U.S. credit system. You will also have access to an unofficial transcript in your IFSA Student Portal. The transcript reflects courses taken, credits attempted, and grades earned during your term abroad. This service is included in your study abroad program at no additional cost.
Excursions
Day-To-Day Experience
Dates and Fees






Meet Your Program Advisor

What Our Students Say

Marisa Iannitto
Student, Costa Rica

Zenith Rai
Student, Costa Rica
“I chose IFSA for the freedom it gives to students as well as its emphasis on cultural immersion!“
Unpacked: Student Stories
Contact the IFSA Office at 800.858.0229 or 317.940.9336 Ask for a Health and Safety team member.
Contact the Butler University Police Department at 317.940.9999 The officer on duty will contact the appropriate IFSA personnel.