Program Overview
Costa Rica: Environmental Law & Sustainability
Costa Rica is a nation of breathtaking natural wonders, and you will get to know first-hand how they are preserving the incredible biodiversity throughout the nation. Building upon a foundation of environmental impact, this two-semester program will guide you through Costa Rica’s reputation as a leader in environmental protection.
In IDH 4007, you will examine the intersection of environmental sustainability and legal frameworks within Costa Rica's unique ecological and regulatory context. Students will explore Costa Rica's pioneering environmental legislation, conservation strategies, and sustainable development practices while analyzing the legal mechanisms that support the country's reputation as a global leader in environmental protection.
In IDH 4008, you will build upon the foundational knowledge of Costa Rican environmental law to explore advanced applications, contemporary challenges, and innovative legal solutions. Students will engage in practical legal analysis, field-based learning, and collaborative problem-solving while examining cutting-edge issues in environmental jurisprudence and policy implementation within Costa Rica's dynamic legal landscape.
Program Start: Sunday, May 16, 2027
Program End: Sunday, June 6, 2027
Application opens soon
The 2027 Honors Study Abroad application window opens September 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. EDT.
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until January 8, 2027, or until all spaces are filled.
PROGRAM DETAILS
What you'll be doing
- Riding a boat on Arenal Lake
- Touring near the Arenal Volcano
- Taking chocolate and coffee tours
- Zip-lining through Ecoglide Arenal Park
- Visiting with members of indigenous groups
- Snorkeling at the Reef Barrier of Cahuita National Park
- Hiking and birding in national parks and private reserves
- Helping improve infrastructure of local schools at the Malecu Indigenous Reserve
This is a living document, meaning that scheduled Free Time may be utilized for in-person quizzes, class meetings, and/or class days. Students should always consult with their Faculty Director prior to scheduling plans during Free Time.
Cost & Aid
- 21 nights in handpicked accommodations
- Laundry in two accommodations
- Private group transportation
- Guided hikes
- Airport pick up and drop off at start and end of program
- Agricultural tourism tours (coffee, chocolate, farm)
- Boat trip at Arenal Lake & Jungle Crocodile boat tour
- Snorkeling tour
- Day of community service at Malecu Indigenous Community (6+ service hours)
- International travel medical insurance
- Private English-speaking tour guide
- Tips for guides in different locations, private tour guide, and driver
- 20 breakfasts, 17 lunches, 19 dinners
- 24/7 support from Faculty Director and local guide
- Admission to Paradise Hot Springs, Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, Los Quetzales National Park, and so much more
Your Faculty Director
Born in Vienna, Austria to Yugoslavian parents, Mr. Andrej Milić, is the Chairperson for The Law Center at Miami Dade College. He obtained his Bachelor of Applied Science Degree from Miami Dade College, where he was a member of the Honors College. Milić then obtained his Master of Management Degree with a specialization in Justice Administration from St. Thomas University and his Juris Doctor of Law from University of Florida. He earned his LL.M. in Intercultural Human Rights at. St. Thomas University School of Law. Mr. Milić is a licensed attorney in Florida and is a participant in the Florida Bar Leadership Academy Class X. Mr. Milić teaches at FIU College of Law and is the Facutly Director of Study Abroad Honors Costa Rica. He has developed courses for aspiring attorneys and teaches at numerous universities globally.
What's Next