Costa Rica provides the ideal opportunity for many students looking for higher education opportunities in a diverse, culturally rich country. Costa Rica is located in Central American bordering Nicaragua and Panama. This Spanish-speaking country has a population of about 4.5 million people. There are many industries that are growing and flourishing here, but the country is becoming known for progressive environmental policies and sustainability. It has a strong religious base and a passion for its food and sports. The educational system here is also strong and provides a good opportunity for international students looking to study in Costa Rica including in the area of business studies.

Business Studies in Costa Rica

Although some of Costa Rica is wealthy and modern, other portions are not. Most of the universities and opportunities for undergraduate and graduate degrees are in the larger cities. International students are welcomed here and public education (for domestic students) is provided free through high school. At the college level, though, international students can expect to pay about $9000 USD per year.

The largest schools in Costa Rica with foreign educational opportunities are in Heredia and San Jose. The school year runs on trimesters and there is also a summer program provided. Students will need to show fluency in Spanish and have a high school diploma (or the equivalent) to enroll in undergraduate programs. Business education in Costa Rica is available at the university level. Courses here often include humanities, business leadership, business management, and finance and marketing. Customized programs for international students are a popular option.

Undergraduate and graduate degrees are available, but some of these are limitedly available. Most often, domestic students enter the workforce long before completing high school, so advanced university programs are not as common. Doctoral programs may be available on a specialized basis. In all situations, international students will need to work directly with the school to obtain an educational course of action. All students need to have a student visa unless they plan to stay under 72 days in the country. The schools can help with this process.

Overall, studying in Costa Rica is an ideal opportunity for those who wish to explore a completely different culture and wish to experience true hands on education. After leaving school with a bachelor's degree in business studies, students may enter the workforce if they can secure the promise of employment and obtain a work visa. This is not always the case especially outside of the largest cities. Research opportunities and business students who wish to work in the health care industry or environmental industry will more readily find employment.