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CIEE Tropical Ecology and Conservation in Monteverde, Costa Rica
(Outgoing Program)
** Indicates rolling admission application process. Applicants will be immediately notified of acceptance into this program and be able to complete post-decision materials prior to the term's application deadline.
Explore the biodiversity in Monteverde’s Cloud Forest Reserve, beaches, waterfalls, and more – all while building on your Spanish language skills. Take courses on tropical ecology, and a Spanish language course appropriate to your skills at CIEE– Monteverde. Work on an independent research project in tropical ecology or conservation, from observation and data collection to a presentation of your findings. All courses are complemented with CIEE co-curricular activities and excursion to enhance classroom learning and provide intercultural understanding.
Unique Experiences
EXPLORE BEYOND MONTEVERDE
when you visit Costa Rica’s mangroves, lowland rainforest, dry forest, and other fascinating natural habitats.
PUT NEW SKILLS INTO PRACTICE
as you complete an independent research project that gives you an in-depth look at local flora or fauna.
BE ENCHANTED AND INSPIRED
when you hike under the dripping boughs of the cloud forest and observe colorful plants and animals.
Immerse yourself in the steamy jungle of Lowland Rainforest
Explore a dry forest recognized for its study of regeneration in Santa Rosa National Park
See how local coffee farms, livestock, and butterfly gardens add to Monteverde’s vibrant landscape
Camp, hike, snorkel, boat, and swim while comparing Atlantic and Pacific slope habitats
Hike above the treeline to explore endemic species and amazing views in Costa Rica’s paramo
Discover local foods and customs in the town of Monteverde
Research
Put your skills to work on an independent research project in tropical ecology or conservation, from observation to data collection and then to a presentation of your findings. At every step, you will be guided by an expert faculty advisor. Past projects have explored beetle habitats, hummingbird behavior, the prey of cane toads, orchids and their pollinators, and much more.
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
A two-day orientation in San José to introduce students to Spanish culture, the academic program, and surroundings, plus practical information about living in Costa Rica
Full-time program leadership and support in your host country
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Insurance and other travel benefits, with CIEE iNext
24/7 emergency on-site support
1 out of 3 CIEE students receives a scholarship - get yours!
GAIN Travel Grants - up to $2,000 toward travel costs guaranteed to all Pell-elgible students.
Gilman Go Global Grants - $2,500/semester and $1,000/summer, guaranteed to all Gilman applications.
Merit-Based Scholarships - $2,500/semester and $750/summer, awarded to students deomonstrating high academic achievement.
Minority Serving Institutions (MIS) Grant - $2,000/semester and $500/summer, guaranteed to all students attending MSIs.
Our highly experienced staff have extensive knowledge of all CIEE programs and services. If you are a student with questions about completing your application, or you want to sign up to receive program updates and news, our staff are happy to help.