- Augusta University
- Study Abroad
- Study Abroad Programs
- Costa Rica
Costa Rica
Travel Dates: June 1 - 16, 2027
About / Important Dates / Courses / Program Costs / Itinerary / Apply Now
ANIMAL BEHAVIOR & ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY
Join us in Costa Rica for a unique combination of service learning and adventure. Students will volunteer at Refugio Animal de Costa Rica, gaining hands-on experience while helping care for rescued wildlife and supporting conservation efforts.
Beyond the refuge, participants will explore some of Costa Rica’s most incredible natural and cultural attractions. Excursions include a multi-day stay in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, a river boat tour, a visit to a local chocolate and coffee farm, and the chance to see one of Costa Rica’s famous volcanoes up close. This program offers an unforgettable opportunity to make a difference, experience a new culture, and explore the beauty of Costa Rica.
International Travel & Health Information
Important Dates
Study Abroad Fair
- 9/9/2026, 10AM-1PM
- JSAC Breezeway
Flight & Airport Navigation Workshop
- 1/15/2027
$200 Initial Program Fee & Application Deadline
- 12/3/2026
2nd Payment Deadline
- 1/5/2027
Flight Purchase Window
- 1/15/2026 - 2/4/2027
Final Payment Deadline
- 2/4/2027
Sweet Send Off
- 3/6/2027, 5PM-6PM
SAO Orientation
- 4/30/2027, 10AM-12PM
Contact Us
Study Abroad Office
Summerville Campus
Suite 251
Course Offered
Choose 1
BIOL 1102/1102L: Environmental Biology (4 credits) | PSYC 3950: Animal Behavior (3 credits) Pre-req: PSYC 1101
Program Leaders: Dr. Faith Wiley, Dr. Katherine Williams
This is a summer semester program. Classes meet pre- and post-travel.
Program Cost
Initial Program Fee: $200
Deadline: 12/3/2026
Program Fee: Approx. [insert cost]
(excludes airfare, tuition/fees)
Final Payment Deadline: 2/4/2027
Tuition & Fees: based on number of credit hours enrolled
Itinerary subject to change
01
JuneDay One
Travel Day (USA to San Jose, CR) & visit University of Costa Rica campus02
JuneDay Two
Service learning at Refugio Animal de Costa Rica03
JuneDay Three
Service learning04
JuneDay Four
Service learning05
JuneDay Five
Service learning06
JuneDay Six
Service learning07
JuneDay Seven
Poas Volcano & coffee tour; return to Refugio Animal de Costa Rica
08
JuneDay Eight
Travel (Refugio to Tirimbina Biological Reserve); night walk at Tirimbina reserve09
JuneDay Nine
Lecture, animal watching & bat tour at Tirimbina reserve10
JuneDay Ten
Nature history boat tour & forest walk at Tirimbina11
JuneDay Eleven
Lecture, animal watching & bat tour at Tirimbina reserve
12
JuneDay Twelve
Travel (Tirimbina reserve to Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve); stop at Zarcero park on the way
13
JuneDay Thirteen
Monteverde Cloud Forest walk & tour; visit to the natural products factory
14
JuneDay Fourteen
Free morning (optional ziplining) - Visit to Santa Elena town in the afternoon.
15
JuneDay Fifteen
Travel (Monteverde to San Jose, CR); 1 short activity along travel (museum or gardens)
16
JuneDay Sixteen
Travel home