sunset monteverde costa rica
Monteverde, Costa Rica

Sustainability + the Environment

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Dates

-

16 weeks

Costs

Credit

16 - 17 semester hours

24 - 25.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Dates

-

16 weeks

Costs

Credit

16 - 17 semester hours

24 - 25.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Dates

-

16 weeks

Costs

Credit

16 - 17 semester hours

24 - 25.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Attending CIEE Monteverde is a unique and life-changing experience where you will develop new knowledge and skills while taking your Spanish language skills to the next level. This program is for students from all fields of study interested in digging into today's pressing environmental issues. When class is in session, you'll take three required content courses, an internship, and a Spanish language course. Outside the classroom, you'll participate in activities on local farms, natural reserves, field stations, and other experiences that provide intercultural understanding.

 

CIEE Leading Change in Latin America Student Scholarship 

Apply to become one of 100 students to receive a fully-funded CIEE Study Abroad program in Latin America for fall '25 or spring '26!

Learn More

Unique Experiences

EXPLORE ALTERNATIVE ENERGIES

and learn about how they impact communities and biodiversity

INTERN WITH A LOCAL LEADER

and apply the principles of conservation and sustainability to real-life situations

3,021

species of plants and trees

7

Natural Wonders of Costa Rica including the Monteverde Cloud Forest

6,700

inhabitants

Experience
  • monteverde students abroad photography
  • costa rica student with tree jungle costa rica

The Destination

Located in the northwestern region of Costa Rica, Monteverde lies along the continental divide at the crest of the Cordillera de Tilarán mountain chain, which is blanketed by a cool, wet cloud forest extending down into the Atlantic lowlands.  The cloud forest provides a striking contrast to the deciduous forest on the Pacific side. 

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve was founded in 1972 to protect the entire ridge above Monteverde and down into the Peñas Blancas Valley.  As a result of its unique history and geography, Monteverde is a stunning home to exotic flora, fauna, and wildlife and sustainability projects including agriculture, energy production, water conservation, forest management, and biodiversity conservation.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Monteverde.

The Culture

monteverde cheers jungle study abroad

Excursions & Activities

  • Immersing yourself in the steamy jungle of the Lowland Rainforest. 
  • Rising with the sun for birding tours or farm chores and experiencing biodiversity after the sun goes down with a guided night hike in the forest.  
  • Meet local people and business owners to get a firsthand look at a range of environmental protection projects. 
  • Earn work experience as an intern in a local organization or company. 
  • Indoor and outdoor areas with access to forest trails and gardens for recreation, self-exploration and co-curricular activities. 
  • Optional weekend at a home stay where students can live with a local family in Monteverde and immerse themselves in the Costa Rican culture. 

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Costa Rica vs. Argentina: Which is Better for Study Abroad?

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Imagine yourself sipping mate in a bustling Buenos Aires café or lounging peacefully in a hammock overlooking Costa Rica's lush rainforests. These contrasting scenes represent just a glimpse of the... keep reading

From CIEE

Happy Earth Day: Today and Every Day

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Happy Earth Day! Every April 22, this global event comes around to remind us how precious our planet is, what sustainable efforts we can make to protect Earth, and that... keep reading

From CIEE

Top 10 Study Abroad Volunteer Opportunities with CIEE

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Have you ever wondered if you could volunteer abroad? Perhaps you're looking into study abroad programs that provide international volunteer opportunities. If you’re itching to study abroad and truly make... keep reading

What People are Saying

  • "Great experience; Trips were extremely fun and informative; Staff was really nice and helpful; Also, Costa Rica is a beautiful country with great people"

    Fayoni O., George Washington University

  • "Studying abroad in a new place is a very rewarding experience."

    Morgan O., University of Colorado-Boulder

Housing
Academics

Academics

This program is designed for energetic, outdoorsy students who are committed to fully immersing in academics, local culture, and nature. Successful students are those committed to working hard, playing hard, and expanding their comfort zone. Students participants learn in the classroom and field, and travel within Costa Rica to places that most visitors never see. You are rewarded with unique and life-changing experiences, new knowledge and skills, and inspiration to carry the sustainability movement forward. 

There is a wet laboratory, an herbarium, plus organic gardens to support a wide array of STEM studies and internship opportunities. An extensive trail system through forest and fields, links classrooms to a botanical garden, animal stables and coffee and vegetable production areas.

GPA

2.5

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Major in environmental studies/science.  Have completed two college-level courses in natural sciences, environmental studies, or agriculture.

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Recommendations

Some college-level Spanish is recommended.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

Students must take 5 required courses including Spanish language and an internship. 

  • 3 CIEE Biology/Environmental Studies courses  
  • 1 Spanish language course  
  • 1 Internship  

     

Program Credit

  • Through Fall 2023: 17 U.S. semester /25.5 quarter credits  
  • As of Spring 2024: 16 – 17 U.S. semester/24 – 25.5 quarter credits  
     

Course Credit

  • CIEE Environmental Studies and Biology courses: 2 - 4 U.S. semester/3 - 6 quarter credits; 30 - 60 contact hours
  • CIEE Spanish language courses: 3 - 4 U.S. semester/4.5 - 6 quarter credits; 45 - 60 contact hours  
  • CIEE Internship: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 25 seminar hours, 110 placement hours 
     

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

The program is highly rewarding. Fall Schedule: mid-August to early December. Spring Schedule: Late January to mid-May. 

Class Format

Students learn with other CIEE participants in small, dynamic groups, taking five classes that are required for this program. Learning happens through lectures, fieldwork, excursion, interviews, small group work, and discussions. Because of the focus on critical thinking, assignments and exams are writing intensive. Classes are typically held Monday through Friday and are for CIEE participants only. Instruction is supported and augmented online by Canvas, our e-learning management tool.

Grading

Students are assessed with traditional evaluation tools – tests, reports, essays, participation, and oral presentations – and given a standard letter grade of A-F like in the US.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English and Spanish

 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

All students take a Spanish Language class, at an appropriate level (as determined by a placement evaluation) from the list below. Participants should be attentive to the scheduling of the placement tests and the online class schedule, all of which will be communicated well in advance of the program start date.

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Biological and Physical Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Biological and Physical Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Internships

Discover Internship Opportunities

We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.

Explore Industry Options

Monteverde provides an engaging work environment focused on sustainable agriculture, conservation, ecotourism, and community initiatives. Most jobs promote environmental stewardship and biodiversity while offering a unique experience within a small, multicultural community nestled in the Costa Rican cloud forest.  

A female intern picks crops from a field

Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources

Gain experience in agricultural markets, agribusiness companies, and NGOs to study food production and global processes.

A intern teacher works with her students in the classroom

Education and Training

Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.

A restaurant manager reviews information on a table with a chef

Hospitality and Tourism

Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.

A female intern listens to instructions from her teacher

Manufacturing

Study global supply chains, production technologies, and international business strategies in England, Singapore, and more.

Browse Internship Opportunities

Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.

Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Ritzmann Tropical and Marine Ecology Scholarships
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • CIEE STEM Scholarship
  • Fall 25 or Spring 26 Leading Change in Latin America Student Scholarship

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

 

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Spring 2025 16 weeks Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $19,950
Program Fall 2025 16 weeks Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $19,950
Program Fall 2024 16 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $19,950

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $15,956**

Housing = $3,500***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $0

International Airfare = $700

Local Transportation = $200

Personal expenses = $230††

Total Costs = $1,130

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $15,956**

Housing = $3,500***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

International Airfare = $700

Local Transportation = $200

Personal expenses = $230††

Total Costs = $1,130

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $16,456**

Housing = $3,000***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

International Airfare = $650

Local Transportation = $100

Personal expenses = $230††

Other = $100†††

Total Costs = $1,080

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.

Select Plus Housing Fee = $1,500

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***includes all meals. Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

†††Covid test fees for entry to the US, if required

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Meals

Staff

Our Staff

Pablo Allen

Center Director

Pablo is a native Costa Rican, born and raised in San José. He is an an evolutionary ecologist interested in sexual selection, animal weapons, and phenotypic plasticity. Since rejoining CIEE...

Jessica Arias

Academic Director

Jessica has a PhD on Agricultural Science from the University of Costa Rica. She earned a BSc. in Ecotourism and an MSc. in Sustainable Development, with a concentration in Conservation of...

Jose Carlos Calderon

Student Life Manager

"Moncho" earned his BSc in Biology at the University of Costa Rica with a specialization in bats. He has worked for CIEE Monteverde for over 10 years as Assistant Instructor...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

3

Contact CIEE

We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

4

Interested in an optional internship?

After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!

Request Info