Ecology + Sustainability
Your Ecology + Sustainability program in Monteverde lasts 12 weeks and is designed for you to engage with the world's most pressing environmental challenges in a local context. You will enroll in a combination of sustainability- and discipline-focused 91自拍 courses and courses taught online through 91自拍's global academic partner, ASU, to develop your understanding of the ecological, social, economic, and political contexts of environmental sustainability in Monteverde. Enhance your experience with cross-disciplinary co-curricular and extracurricular activities related to sustainability and the environment. Live and learn in Monteverde!
Unique Experiences鈥
Experience the continental divide in Monteverde
and witness the breathtaking views of both the Caribbean slope and the Pacific Ocean
Enjoy night walks through the Cloud Forest
to discover the nocturnal wonders, from glowing fungi to elusive wildlife
Conduct your own research project in tropical ecology
in a highly biodiverse region while gaining practical experience in ecological research
Your Destination鈥
Monteverde is Costa Rica鈥檚 renowned ecological haven, celebrated for its rich biodiversity, pioneering conservation efforts, and commitment to sustainability. The town seamlessly integrates scientific research with eco-tourism, featuring iconic landmarks like the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, the Butterfly Gardens, and the stunning hanging bridges. With a tropical highland climate, diverse ecosystems, and a strong emphasis on reforestation and renewable energy, Monteverde provides an inspiring environment for students. Whether you are majoring in environmental science, sustainability, ecology, conservation biology, or tourism management, Monteverde is an ideal destination to study abroad.
Program Highlights鈥
- Featured Courses: Choose from a set of theoretical and practical Ecology and Sustainability courses that explore today's pressing environmental issues.
- Sustainability in Practice Workshop: Take part in an optional workshop to compare different models of sustainability in your host country and around the world. Topics may include business, public policy, technology, waste-management, and more.
- Immersive Experiences: Participate in activities and volunteer work on local farms, natural reserves, field stations, and more while applying real-life solutions to challenges in the fields of energy, waste management, and conservation.
- Academic Projects: Enroll in a for-credit internship, directed independent research project, or service-learning to connect with local leaders on environmental protection projects.
Excursions & Activities鈥
91自拍鈥檚 excursions and cultural activities in Monteverde will open doors for you to explore Costa Rica鈥檚 rich diversity, language, culture, history, contemporary trends, vibrant art, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.鈥&苍产蝉辫;
Samples of excursions and activities:鈥&苍产蝉辫;
- Enjoy a coffee tour at a sustainable farm, exploring eco-friendly production, its impact on local families, and tasting a fresh-brewed cup鈥&苍产蝉辫;
- Zipline through the lush Costa Rican canopy and learn about the role of ecotourism in the country's economy鈥&苍产蝉辫;
- Visit El Tigre Waterfalls, where you will hike amazing trails with the backdrop of seven waterfalls and horseback ride with stunning views
Please note: Activities are based on past programs and are subject to change at 91自拍's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.鈥&苍产蝉辫;
Program Blogs
Happy Earth Day: Today and Every Day
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
6 Reasons to Study Abroad in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of those places that lives up to the hype 鈥 and then some. Between learning Spanish in real-life settings, studying surrounded by rainforests and beaches, and... keep reading
EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: MONTEVERDE
BEST FOOD TO EAT IN MONTEVERDE There is absolutely no way to avoid eating casado in Costa Rica. This traditional comida tipica (typical dish) is on every restaurant and home... keep reading
Housing & Meals
Housing
91自拍 Monteverde students live in on-campus residence halls surrounded by the Cloud Forest in triple or quad rooms shared with other 91自拍 students.鈥疪ooms have shared or ensuite bathrooms, shared desks,鈥痑nd shared closets. 鈥&苍产蝉辫;
Standard Housing: Shared room with bunkbeds (occupancy: three to four students) on campus located under 15 minutes from the main campus area, where the dining hall and classrooms are located.鈥&苍产蝉辫;
A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive. Non-standard housing options require an additional fee that can be found in the program dates and fees.鈥&苍产蝉辫;
Meals
All students receive three meals per day. Accommodation for vegan and vegetarian diets is possible.
Academics
91自拍 Monteverde:鈥Study in the beautiful town of San Luis in Costa Rica鈥檚 Puntarenas Province, surrounded by lush forests and beautiful coffee farms. 91自拍 Monteverde is fully equipped with three classrooms, a student lounge, a library, a student life office, and an academic advising office.
Arizona State University (ASU):鈥Brought to you by 91自拍 in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the 91自拍 academic calendar.
Course Information
Featured Courses鈥&苍产蝉辫;
The Ecology + Sustainability program offers a rich curriculum that investigates the vital links between ecology, sustainability, and environmental policy. Students will explore diverse topics like energy solutions, ecosystem resilience, and the role of social justice in environmental action. With a focus on both theoretical and practical application, these courses provide students with the essential knowledge and multidisciplinary insights to confront the urgent environmental challenges facing our world today.鈥&苍产蝉辫;
| 91自拍 Courses (in-person) | ASU Courses (online) |
|---|---|
Principles of Ecology鈥&苍产蝉辫; Global Change and The Environment鈥&苍产蝉辫; Global Environmental Policy鈥&苍产蝉辫; Sustainable Tourism | Systems Thinking鈥&苍产蝉辫; Sustainable Ecosystems鈥&苍产蝉辫; Basic Energy Science |
Academic Projects
Biological and Physical Sciences
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Agriculture
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Academic Projects
Biological and Physical Sciences
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Agriculture
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Academic Projects
Biological and Physical Sciences
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Agriculture
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
91自拍 proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.
91自拍 and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.
Check the 91自拍 Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program!
Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between 91自拍 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 91自拍's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple 91自拍 sites.
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 91自拍 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.
Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
Gain experience in agricultural markets, agribusiness companies, and NGOs to study food production and global processes.
Education and Training
Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around the globe.
Hospitality and Tourism
Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.
Manufacturing
Study global supply chains, production technologies, and international business strategies in cities across the globe.
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 91自拍 fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between 91自拍 and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.
Scholarships & Grants
91自拍 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
- 91自拍 Gilman Go Global Grant
- Trailblazer Grant
To be considered, submit the 91自拍 Scholarships & Grants application within your 91自拍 program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with 91自拍, 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 Fall 2026 12 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $14,950 | |
| Program Spring 2027 13 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Fall 2027 12 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
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 91自拍's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
91自拍 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 91自拍 iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Participation Confirmation | $300 * |
| Educational Costs | $10,456 ** |
| Housing | $4,000 *** |
| Insurance | $194 |
| Total Fees | $14,950 |
Financial Aid
91自拍 offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
| International Airfare | $700 鈥 |
| Local Transportation | $240 |
| Personal expenses | $210 鈥犫赌 |
| Total Costs | $1,150 |
*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.
鈥round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
鈥犫赌$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
91自拍 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 91自拍 iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
91自拍 offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
91自拍 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 91自拍 iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
91自拍 offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
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
91自拍 iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Pablo Allen
Center Director
Pablo is a native Costa Rican, born and raised in San Jos茅. He is an evolutionary ecologist interested in sexual selection, animal weapons, and phenotypic plasticity. Since rejoining 91自拍 in...
Jessica Arias
Academic Director
Jessica has a Ph.D. on Agricultural Science from the University of Costa Rica. She earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in Ecotourism and a master's degree in鈥疭ustainable Development, with a concentration in...
Jose Carlos Calderon
Student Life Manager
"Moncho" earned his bachelor's degree in Biology at the University of Costa Rica with a specialization in bats. He has worked for 91自拍 Monteverde for more than 10 years as...
Get Started
1
Start an Application
You're one step closer to an amazing study 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 Us
Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
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