- 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
This unique study abroad program in Costa Rica blends hands-on service learning with unforgettable exploration. Students will spend time volunteering at Refugio Animal de Costa Rica, gaining real-world experience while supporting wildlife care and conservation efforts. With its global reputation for sustainability, biodiversity, and scientific research, Costa Rica serves as an ideal living classroom.
Beyond the refuge, the program includes daily excursions to breathtaking national parks and culturally significant sites, as well as a multi-day experience exploring the renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. The journey concludes with time to relax and reflect at a beautiful beach destination, rounding out an experience that is equal parts academic, impactful, and unforgettable.
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
- TBD
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