CEA - Veritas University in San Jose Costa Rica
- Spanish Language, Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Spanish Language and Environmental Studies

The Veritas University program is organized and run by Cultural Experiences Abroad (CEA).

Host University

Veritas University was founded in 1975 as a college of the Universidad Autónoma de Centroamérica, the first private university in Costa Rica. Shortly thereafter, Veritas became an independent university and has since grown to become one of the most highly recognized private universities in Latin America. Veritas University is fully accredited by the Costa Rica Ministry of Education.

With approximately 1,800 students, 300 of which are international, Veritas University is located in the eastern part of the city (Zapote), ten minutes from downtown San Jose and only one kilometer from the Casa Presidencial. The school offers a complete range of subjects and a great variety of cultural, artistic and athletic activities. The university is housed in a spacious campus equipped with modern facilities, including a computer lab and a well-maintained library.

CEA offers a very practical and well-organized Spanish language program, carried out by a highly trained and experienced staff of university professors. You will have all the rights and privileges of a Costa Rican university student, including a university ID, computer lab, library, cafeteria, campus bookstore, and tourist office.

Location

Guarded by majestic volcanoes and green hills honoring the natural beauty that exists throughout the nation’s terrain, San Jose is a city that takes pride in its rich traditions and democratic freedom. World class museums, parks, theaters, and historic buildings are only a few reasons this city is worth discovering.

Academics

Students can study Spanish Language, Liberal Arts and Sciences or Spanish Language and Environmental Studies.

Spanish Language, Liberal Arts & Sciences: The Liberal Arts & Sciences Program is designed for students of all language levels who wish to become more comfortable with the Spanish language and acquire knowledge of Costa Rican culture and history. Language courses are taught in 4-week blocks. Each trimester consists of three 4-week blocks. You will be tested at the end of each block and may move into higher language levels during your trimester.

In addition to your language studies, you will take one or two electives chosen from a wide variety of subject areas. Electives taught in English are available to students of all language levels, and students who have tested into the advanced level on the placement exam have the option of taking their electives in Spanish. Please note that elective courses are taught for the length of the trimester. This program also features a unique Early Start option, where you will arrive early and take a four-week intensive language preparation course.

Environmental Studies: The Environmental Studies Program allows students of all language levels the unique opportunity to study the environment in Costa Rica, a renowned leader in the field of environmental conservation. You will take at least one four-week Spanish language course at the beginning of your trimester, focused on oral comprehension and expression, listening comprehension, and grammar components appropriate to your language level. You will then choose three English-taught electives focused on ecology, biology, and environmental sciences. These electives often include a lab portion and/or field component that allows you to further explore the ecology, ecosystems, and environment of Costa Rica. You may also choose to substitute any of your electives with additional Spanish language courses, should you wish to continue practicing your Spanish during the trimester. This program offers you extraordinary insight into the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica while gaining knowledge of the Spanish language and Costa Rican culture.

Language of Instruction

English

Eligibility

- Second semester sophomore standing and above
- Minimum 2.75 GPA

Housing and Meals
There are a variety of housing options offered for students including dormitory, apartments, and home stays.

Apartments
The Residencia Tierrasol is a new student residence for fifteen students located just one block from Veritas University. It is a modern, comfortable environment, located in a safe neighborhood within walking distance to downtown San Jose and other universities. The meal plan includes breakfast Monday through Friday, as well as twenty meal tickets per month, which can be used at several local restaurants. If you like sharing with other peers while maintaining some independence, the Residencia would be a great choice.

The Casa Universitaria offers students the benefits of an apartment, but also provides the comforts of a home stay such as meals, laundry and cleaning. Most Casas Universitarias are located within 15-20 minutes walking distance from the Veritas University, in safe, middle class neighborhoods. Students will be provided daily breakfast and dinner. In addition, students may have access to a kitchenette where they can warm food and prepare light meals and beverages. If you want to experience what it is like to live with a Costa Rican family but in a more independent set-up, this would be a good choice for you. Please note, this housing option is limited and interested students are encouraged to apply several months in advance.

Homestays:
CEA choose families for their friendliness and helpfulness to past students. Students have found that the time spent with their home stay families is an important part of their Spanish learning experience. Most home stay families live within 15-20 minutes walking distance from Veritas University, while a few homes are a 15-minute bus ride from the university. All the homes are located in safe, middle class neighborhoods. CEA participants living in a home stay will enjoy daily breakfast and dinner with their family. If you want to experience being part of a Costa Rican family, this is the place for you.

On-site Orientation Course

CEA makes airport pick-up and arrival services available to students on this program. CEA will provide you with helpful study abroad services before you leave home. Once you arrive abroad, CEA will hold an in-depth group orientation, where you will explore your new host city and your host university, as well as learn more about local customs, extracurricular activities, CEA policies, and health and safety information. In addition, you will have the opportunity to get to know other CEA participants as you begin to adjust to life in your new environment.

Excursions

CEA plans a number of excursions each session. Check with your CEA advisor for details. There are also opportunities for Immersion and Volunteer activities.

Disclaimer
This site contains the most accurate information available at the time of publication. Statements contained herein are not contractual obligations. Winthrop University and the International Center each reserve the right to cancel, suspend, or change, without specific notice, program, offerings, procedures, qualifications, fees and other conditions.