Frequently Asked Questions
Why study abroad in Heredia?
Costa Rica is an ideal place to study abroad for students interested in environmental studies. As one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, it offers unmatched opportunities to explore ecosystems like rainforests, cloud forests, and marine environments, while also serving as a case study in how environmental protection can be woven into national identity and policy. Students can examine how conservation efforts impact—and are shaped by—local communities, Indigenous knowledge, ecotourism, and government initiatives. With its strong commitment to renewable energy, reforestation, and democratic governance, Costa Rica provides a dynamic, real-world context for understanding the complex relationship between environmental stewardship and social justice.
What is the academic focus in Heredia?
Brandeis in Heredia is an intensive, environmental studies-focused summer program based in Heredia, Costa Rica. This program will deepen your understanding of environmental conservation, sustainable development, and Costa Rican ecology. Additional excursions focus on creating a deeper understanding of environmental issues throughout the country's diverse ecosystems.
The program consists of two courses taught in English and is a collaborative academic program between Brandeis University and IFSA.
Will I actually see a toucan?
Yes!*
*Okay, that isn't something that can be guaranteed. But toucans, macaw, and the other tropical birds of Costa Rica are plentiful and it is likely that you will see them on rural excursions outside of Heredia.
Does the Brandeis program operate only in the summer?
Yes, the program runs from late May to early July. Students wishing to go to Costa Rica during the academic year should meet with a member of the study abroad staff to discuss other options.
Where will I live?
All students on the program will live with a carefully selected homestay family. Only one student is housed per family for maximum cultural and language integration. You will have a single bedroom with a bed, shared bathroom and desk or other designated place to study. Laundry and three meals per day are included.
If you have questions, please contact your study abroad advisor.
What is the deadline for studying abroad in the summer?
The application deadline typically falls in mid-February but interested students are encouraged to apply early. With rolling admissions, applications are reviewed up until the deadline as long as space is available.
Are Brandeis faculty involved in teaching in Heredia?
The program is designed and supervised by Brandeis faculty. A Brandeis Environmental Studies professor will teach one of the courses and an instructor from UNA will teach the other course.
How do the classes taught in Heredia count for my Brandeis degree?
All courses are Brandeis courses and appear on transcripts as graded Brandeis coursework, not transfer credit.
Credits are applied automatically upon completion of your program evaluation. This program evaluation is mandatory and credit will not be applied until it has been completed.
Where can I get more information about Brandeis in Heredia?
If you are looking to find more information about the program that is not available on this website, please also feel free to contact:
- Professor Charlie Chester
-
Ari Kramer in the Office of Study Abroad
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Contact
Professor Charlie Chester
Environmental Studies
Ari Kramer, Assistant Director of Study Abroad
Office of Study Abroad