Latin American Studies Program

VISION

Based in San Jose, Costa Rica, the Latin American Studies Program (LASP) introduces students to a wide range of experiences through the study of the language, literature, culture, politics, history, economics, ecology, and religion of the region. By living with local families, students become part of the day-to-day lives of Latin Americans and experience firsthand the diversity of Latin America, and to equip them to critically examine and respond to global challenges.

Students take part in a community immersion experience and participate in one of three concentrations: Latin American studies; advanced Spanish language and literature; or international business. Students also travel to Nicaragua and significant sites within Costa Rica.

QUALIFICATIONS

LASP is interdisciplinary and encourages students from a variety of majors to apply. Eligible students must:

• Have at least sophomore standing at time of application
• Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75
• Possess a strong commitment to Christianity 

CREDITS

All students will be administered a Spanish placement exam prior to arriving and will be placed in 6 credits of Spanish study.

Additional required core courses include:

• Perspective on Latin American History and Contemporary Issues (3)
• Regional Study Travel (1–3)

Then, choose a 6-credit concentration in:

• Latin American Studies
• Advanced Language and Literature*
• Business for Sustainability

*Students must have at least Intermediate Spanish proficiency prior to entry

COSTS

Program costs include:

• Tuition for 16–18 hours of credit
• Room, including laundry facilities
• Board
• All necessary expenses during required program-related travel

Additional expenses:

• Travel to and from San Jose, Costa Rica
• Passport (required)
• Security deposit (refundable; collected upon arrival)
• Textbooks
• Personal medical expenses, if incurred
• Personal discretionary expenses

Student Financial Services will reassess each applicant's financial aid package for their off-campus semester and provide a breakdown of costs after acceptance from the GEO. Federal and private aid will not be affected. Please contact SFS for specific financial questions. 

APPLICATION PROCEDURE & DEADLINES 

All Gordon students applying to a BestSemester program must first submit an online seat application to the Global and Experiential Learning Office by March 1 before applying to your program.

After you've been approved by the Global and Experiential Learning Office proceed with the BestSemester application. BestSemester has a rolling admission policy. Spring applications are accepted until November 1. Fall applications are accepted until June 1.

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