Veritas University
San Jose, Costa Rica
Location
Costa Rica’s allure can be traced to a number of factors. The variety of outdoor recreation activities provides endless possibilities to experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Outdoor enthusiasts will find challenges on the various trails winding through mountains, rain forests, and up volcanoes. The miles of beautiful Costa Rican coastline support an underwater ecology as diverse and spectacular as the landscape. In San José, Costa Rica's capital city, you will find a large number of excellent museums, cinemas, theaters, restaurants, and nightclubs, along with a healthy student population.
Program of Study
Veritas University, founded in 1976, is one of four schools that constitute the first private university in Costa Rica. Renowned for its design, art, architecture and photography programs, Veritas welcomes students with any academic interest. Students earn 12-14 credit hours -- please note this program is on a trimester schedule and is shorter than semester programs. A placement test administered upon arrival at Veritas determines which courses are open to the student.
Living Arrangements
During the program, students live with a Costa Rican family. Full room and board plus weekly laundry service is included. The homestay provides the opportunity for students to experience aspects of the Costa Rican lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor.
Costs
Students pay Berry College semester tuition. Current room and board fees are $1000, and insurance costs $15 per week. Prices are subject to change, and other fees may apply.
Eligibility
Students are required to have a 2.5 GPA for this program and have completed five semesters of college-level Spanish. They also must place in the high advanced or superior level on a Spanish language placement test in order to qualify for the program.
Additional Information
Students will need a visa to study in Costa Rica for a semester. Resident directors assist students in applying for the visa.
What Berry students say:
"Study abroad is a mix of everything. Wild adventure and normal life, with everything that comes with it. Let yourself relax and enjoy both. Realize that you have a wonderful opportunity that few get, and take advantage of it. Don't let fear stop you."
"As my Spanish ability improved, I was able to interact effectively in the host culture."