Program Overview

The Costa Rica: Environmental Law & Sustainability program is a two-semester course that examines the intersection of environmental sustainability and legal frameworks within Costa Rica's unique ecological and regulatory context. Students will explore Costa Rica's pioneering environmental legislation, conservation strategies, and sustainable development practices while analyzing the legal mechanisms that support the country's reputation as a global leader in environmental protection.

Course Focus

The course focuses on the following areas:

• Sustainability
• Culture
• Biodiversity
• Impact of economic, environmental, and social issues related to tourism and general business practices
• Indigenous Traditions
• Community Tourism
• Conservation
• Sustainable medicinal plants
• Unique Ecosystems
• Environmental Law

Program Information

• Spring 2026 (on campus): IDH 4007 (3 credits) - MMC, Thursdays, 5:00PM-7:30PM
• Summer A 2026 (abroad): IDH 4008 (3 credits) - May 16-June 6, 2026

Program Highlights

The program includes:

• Hiking in national parks & private reserves
• Hiking near the Arenal Volcano
• Visiting & talking with members of indigenous tribes
• Chocolate & coffee tours
• Helping improve infrastructure of local schools at the Maleku Indigenous Reserve
• Exploring the rich & diverse ecological landscape through boat rides, bird watching, nature walks, snorkeling, swimming & zip-lining

What is Included

The program includes:

• 21 nights in handpicked accommodations
• Laundry in two accommodations
• Private group transportation
• Guided hikes
• Various tours of agricultural tourism tours (coffee, chocolate, farm)
• Boat trip at Arenal Lake & Jungle Crocodile boat tour
• Snorkeling tour
• Cooking class
• Day of community service at Maleku Indigenous Community with experienced worker (6+ service hours)
• International travel medical insurance
• Private English-speaking tour guide
• Tips for guides in different locations, private tour guide, and driver
• 20 breakfasts, 18 lunches, 19 dinners
• 24/7 support from Faculty Director & local guide
• Admission to Paradise Hot Springs, Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, Los Quetzales National Park, and so much more

What is Not Included

The program does not include:

• Roundtrip international airfare to/from San José, Costa Rica
• $195.00 Education Abroad administrative fee (OEA Fee)
• FIU in-state tuition (6 credits, $205.57 per credit)
• Passport, visa, and other necessary documents
• Personal expenses

Itinerary

The itinerary is subject to change and includes:

• Day 1: San José - welcome dinner
• Day 2-3: Sarapiquí - coffee tour, Tirimbina Rainforest Center, NGO, hanging bridges, forest, and floating tour of Sarapiquí River
• Day 4-7: La Fortuna - chocolate tour, La Fortuna Waterfall, tour at Finca Campesina, community work at Maleku Indigenous Territory, Night Wing Project, Arenal National Park, boat ride on Arenal Lake, Hot Spring Paradise, and zip lines at Ecoglide
• Day 8-9: Monteverde - Curicancha Nature Reserve and night hike at Children Eternal Rainforest
• Day 10-13: Uvita - Marino Bellena National Park, street market, Boruca Indigenous Territory, and Nauyaca Waterfall
• Day 14-15: San Gerardo de Dota - Quetzales National Park, hike to the Oak Forest, hike to Savegre waterfall, and morning hike at the Gardens
• Day 16: Jiménez de Cartago - birding, visit to Las Vueltas town, and cooking class with local products
• Day 17-20: Cahuita - snorkeling at the Reef Barrier of Cahuita National Park, Gandoca - Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, Manzanillo Beach sector, Cocles Beach, and Bribri Indigenous Territory
• Day 21-22: San José - farewell dinner and departure

Faculty Director

The Faculty Director is Andrej Milic, Director of Development at FIU College of Law. Mr. Milic has a Bachelor of Applied Science Degree from Miami Dade College, a Master of Management Degree from St. Thomas University, and a Juris Doctor of Law from the University of Florida. He also earned his LL.M. in Intercultural Human Rights at St. Thomas University School of Law.

Payment Schedule

The payment schedule is as follows:

• 1st Payment (Deposit): $500
• 2nd Program Payment: $1,050
• Spring 2026 In-State Tuition: $616.71
• 3rd Program Payment: $1,050
• Education Abroad Fee: $195
• Summer A 2026 In-State Tuition: $616.71 Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Florida International University

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Overview:

Florida International University (FIU) is a public research university located in Miami, Florida. It is the only public research university in Miami and is recognized as a Preeminent State Research University by the Florida Board of Governors. FIU is known for its diverse student body, its commitment to research, and its focus on addressing global challenges.

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Services Offered:

FIU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Libraries, tutoring services, writing centers, and career counseling.

Student Life:

Student organizations, clubs, recreational activities, and cultural events.

Campus Resources:

Housing, dining, transportation, and healthcare services.

Technology:

Access to computer labs, Wi-Fi, and online learning platforms.

Financial Aid:

Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

FIU provides a vibrant and diverse campus experience for its students. With over 58,000 students from 142 countries, the university fosters a global and inclusive environment. Students can engage in a variety of activities, including:

Student Involvement:

Joining clubs, organizations, and honor societies.

Campus Highlights:

Attending concerts, sporting events, and cultural performances.

Arts & Culture:

Visiting museums, art galleries, and theaters.

Recreation & the Outdoors:

Participating in sports, fitness activities, and outdoor adventures.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Top-Ranked Programs:

FIU offers over 190 degree programs, many of which are ranked among the best in the nation.

Research Excellence:

FIU is a Carnegie Very High Research institution, conducting groundbreaking research in various fields.

Global Focus:

FIU's location in Miami provides students with unique opportunities to engage with a diverse and international community.

Diverse Student Body:

FIU's student population represents a wide range of backgrounds and cultures, fostering a rich and inclusive learning environment.

Campus Amenities:

FIU offers a variety of resources and amenities to support student success, including modern facilities, housing options, and recreational opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

FIU offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Design

Business and Economics

Education

Hospitality Management

Humanities and Culture

Medicine and Health

Public Policy

Sciences and Engineering

Technology

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Other:

FIU has multiple campuses across South Florida, including the main Modesto A. Maidique Campus, the Biscayne Bay Campus, and several satellite locations. The university also boasts a strong alumni network of over 200,000 individuals.