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Medical Spanish & Health Sciences
San Jose, Costa Rica
About the Program
Acquire the language skills and understanding of cultural elements that may come into play when working with Spanish-speaking patients. Designed for students at all levels of Spanish ability who wish to work in the medical and health sciences fields, this program offers health science courses (taught in English) that provide insight into Costa Rica's health care system and offer active learning components that reinforce lessons learned in class. From recognizing medical vocabulary to describing patients' physical and mental states to communication with patients and other medical personnel, language courses focus on developing the ability to effectively communicate with patients through intensive speaking and listening practice set within a medical context. Advanced students will fine-tune their language skills, discussing topics such as advantages and disadvantages of traditional vs. holistic medicine and preparing talks or presentations given at clinics or conferences. Regardless of the level of instruction, expect to give presentations that simulate medical provider-patient interactions. An Early Start option helps you jump start your (regular) Spanish language skills before your Medical Spanish course begins in the semester.
Requirements
Overview
San Jose
1/2/27 - 5/1/27
$14,395
16 - 20
Deadlines
11/1/26
12/1/26
Requirements
Eligibility
High School Graduate
All Levels
2.6
Where You'll Study
Universidad Veritas
Since its founding in 1976, Universidad Veritas has become one of the most highly recognized private universities in Latin America. Not only is Veritas fully accredited by the Costa Rica Ministry ...
Universidad Veritas
Since its founding in 1976, Universidad Veritas has become one of the most highly recognized private universities in Latin America. Not only is Veritas fully accredited by the Costa Rica Ministry of Education, but it is also a member of the College Consortium for International Studies and NAFSA: Association of International Educators.
With approximately 2,000 students, 500 of whom are international, Universidad Veritas is located in the eastern part of the city (Zapote), ten minutes from downtown San José and only one kilometer from the Casa Presidencial. The school offers a complete range of subjects and a great variety of cultural, artistic, and athletic activities.
The university’s spacious campus is equipped with modern facilities, including several computer labs and a well-maintained library. CEA CAPA offers a practical and well-organized Spanish language program, led by a highly trained and experienced staff of university professors.
Credit Transfer Information
CEA CAPA credit hour recommendations are based on the following conversion: 15 contact hours equals 1 U.S. credit. Credit transfer is ultimately determined by your home university. Please consult with an academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
Transcript Information
Students receive a transcript from Universidad Veritas upon successful completion of the program. The transcript reflects the contact hours per course.
Accreditation
Ranked among Costa Rica’s top 10 universities, Veritas is fully accredited by the Costa Rican Ministry of Public Education and is a member of the College Consortium for International Studies and NAFSA.
Grading
Grade conversions from CEA CAPA partner institutions abroad to a US grading scale are determined in consultation with our School of Record and benchmarked with other peer institutions in the field.
Please note that CEA CAPA can only recommend grade conversions to students’ home institutions—it is ultimately at the discretion of the home institution to convert grades from abroad to students’ academic records.
For further information or details about grade conversion for a particular host institution, please reach out to our Registrar at registrar@ceacapa.com.
Please note that CEA CAPA can only recommend grade conversions to students’ home institutions—it is ultimately at the discretion of the home institution to convert grades from abroad to students’ academic records.
For further information or details about grade conversion for a particular host institution, please reach out to our Registrar at registrar@ceacapa.com.
Classroom and Information
- International faculty from Universidad Veritas teach your language and elective classes.
- Attendance in all classes is mandatory and monitored by each professor.
- Periodic exams, homework assignments and final exams will be administered.
- Teaching styles in Costa Rica may differ from those in the U.S. Be prepared to adapt to different classroom structures and coursework expectations.
- Class size ranges between 10 and 25 students and includes CEA CAPA participants and other international students.
Amenities
Student Offices
Clubs & Organizations
Study Room
Counseling Services
University Library
Computer Lab
Printing Facilities
Student ID
Multi-Media
Internet Access & Wi-Fi
Academic Advising
Tutoring
Language Learning Services
Language Exchange with Local Students
Cultural Engagement
Dining Facilities
Free Campus Shuttle
Copy & Mail Center
On-campus ATM
Museum & Art Galleries
16-20
Credits
Program Structure & Courses
Enroll in a mix of language and elective courses. Language courses meet for 60 contact hours/4 credits, health sciences and elective courses meet for 48-60 contact hours (3-4 credits). You may earn 12-16 credits (up to 240 contact hours).
If you choose the Early Start option, you'll enroll in an additional language course that meets for 60 contact hours/4 credits. With the Early Start option, you may earn 16-20 credits (up to 300 contact hours) over the semester. Please note, the language course offered in the Early Start option is a traditional Spanish language course. Medical Spanish courses are only offered during the normal semester.
Veritas University offers courses in English and Spanish language. English taught courses are fully in English, while the Spanish language acquisition courses are taught fully in Spanish - the methodology they use is “Spanish in Spanish”. Veritas utilizes the Competencies based learning as their Pedagogical Model for both English and Spanish courses.
Language courses meet for 3 hours per day, Monday-Friday, for 4 weeks in January (winter semester) or October (fall semester). Health sciences and elective courses meet in the afternoons or evenings, Monday-Thursday, through the entire semester. Active learning components required by your courses may be scheduled for Fridays.
Prior to departure, you will select your preferred courses and take a language placement exam. Students who have no prior knowledge of Spanish language and consider taking SPN 101 Spanish Basic I or SSP 141 Basic Spanish for Health Professionals, may opt out of the of the language placement exam. You will be enrolled into courses based on their availability and the result of your placement exam. It is in your best interest to have multiple alternative courses approved by your home university prior to your departure due to course availabilities. To ensure that you receive credit for the language level you place into, have your home school pre-approve courses at several levels before you leave for Costa Rica. Please consult with your academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
All Levels Course Structure
Courses
The host institution has offered the following courses in the past. Please note that course listings will not be finalized until the start of the term.
*Courses with an asterisk indicate that the course has been associated with multiple subject areas.
Please click on the course title to view additional subject areas and detailed course information.
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPN 101 Basic Spanish I | 100 | Sp | 60 | 4 |
| SPN 102 Basic Spanish II | 100 | Sp | 60 | 4 |
| SPN 201 Intermediate Spanish I | 200 | Sp | 60 | 4 |
| SPN 202 Intermediate Spanish II | 200 | Sp | 60 | 4 |
| SPN 210 Intermediate Spanish Conversation | 200 | Sp | 60 | 4 |
| SPN 301 Advanced Spanish I | 300 | Sp | 60 | 4 |
| SPN 302 Advanced Spanish II | 300 | Sp | 60 | 4 |
| SPN 310 Advanced Spanish Conversation | 300 | Sp | 60 | 4 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ART 2100 Art Fundamentals: Theory and Practice * | 200 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BIO 1100 Principles of Biology | 100 | En | 60 | 4 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEB 3120 Entrepreneurship & Design Thinking | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| GEB 3350 International Business Strategies in Sustainable Development | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COMM 3070 Creative Conflict Resolution: A Multicultural, Gender Perspective | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| COMM 3100 Communication for Development & Social Leaders | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| COMM 3200 Intercultural Communication & Competence | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ETH 3100 Selected Topics in Afro-Caribbean Studies * | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENV 3044 Tropical Ecology | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 3170 Freshwater Ecology | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECON 1100 Introduction to Micro and Macroeconomics | En | 48 | 3 | |
| ECON 3403 Introduction to International Economics in Latin America & Caribbean | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| ECON 3500 Introduction to Circular Economy | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| GEB 3500 Ecotourism: The Costa Rica Case * | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENV 2500 Introduction to Genetics: Current Applications | 200 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 2800 Permaculture for a Regenerative Culture | 200 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 3005 Environmental Impact and Social Development * | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 3100 Tropical Birds of Costa Rica * | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 3150 Tropical Botany: Useful Plants Workshop | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 3160 Conservation Biology & Endangered Marine Species | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 3190 Tropical Marine Biology * | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 3740 Climate Change: Impacts and Adaptations | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 4030 Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems * | 400 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 4040 Sustainable Development & Environmental Awareness * | 400 | En | 60 | 4 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDD 3000 Dimensions of Healthy Living | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| HHD 1020 Physical Therapy & Sport Rehabilitation | 100 | En | 48 | 3 |
| HHD 1050 Holistic Health Approaches | 100 | En | 60 | 4 |
| HHD 1070 Health & Nutrition: A Sustainability Approach | 100 | En | 60 | 4 |
| HHD 3070 Conflict Resolution and Health Care * | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| HIS 3293 Costa Rican Health Care System and Tropical Medicine | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS 2302 Contemporary Latin American History | 200 | En | 48 | 3 |
| HIS 3130 Sustainability and Resources Management in the Ancient World * | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| HIS 3290 Human Development in Latin America | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUM 2100 Introduction to Video Creation | 200 | En | 60 | 4 |
| HUM 3150 Indigenous Ecology and Sustainability | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| HUM 3513 Costa Rica Colloquium: History & Culture * | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEB 3000 Introduction to Project Management | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| MGMT 3020 Renewable Energy and Resource Management | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| MGMT 3030 Creative Leadership Skills * | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENV 3020 Marine Molecular Biology | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 3200 Marine Mammals of Costa Rica: Biology and Conservation | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| ENV 3210 Ecology and Conservation of Coral Reef * | En | 60 | 4 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MKTG 3010 International Marketing Management | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| SUSD 3150 Sustainable Consumption & Production "10 Years On" * | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MATH 1231 Foundations of Single-Variable Calculus | 100 | En | 48 | 3 |
| STAT 1151 Introduction to Statistical Reasoning & Data Analysis | 100 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHOT 2100 Ecological Photography | 200 | En | 60 | 4 |
| PHOT 2130 Cultural Photography | 200 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 2500 Human Rights in Latin America | 200 | En | 48 | 3 |
| POL 3100 Costa Rican Traditions: Peace and Democracy | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| POL 3220 Migration, Globalization and Social Change | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| POL 3250 Global Systems for Human Rights Protection | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| POL 3420 Costa Rica's Environmental Policy: A History of Policy, Politics and Action. * | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| POL 3450 International Relations in Latin America * | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSY 2200 Health Psychology | 200 | En | 48 | 3 |
| PSY 3050 Cultural Psychology | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCY 3050 LGBT: Diversity and Sexuality in Latin America * | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPN 3000 Introduction to Literary Analysis | 300 | Sp | 48 | 3 |
| SPN 3020 Selected Readings in Latin American Literature | 300 | Sp | 48 | 3 |
| SPN 3050 Phonetics and Phonology | 300 | Sp | 48 | 3 |
| SPN 3070 Introduction to Translation | 300 | Sp | 48 | 3 |
| SPN 3420 El cuento centroamericano | 300 | Sp | 48 | 3 |
| SPN 3520 Latin American Dialects | 300 | Sp | 48 | 3 |
| SPN 3550 Poesía Latinoamericana del Siglo XX: Lectura y Escritura | 300 | Sp | 48 | 3 |
| SPN 4110 Contemporary Costa Rican Female Writers | 400 | Sp | 48 | 3 |
| SPN 4330 Selected Topics in Spanish Literature | 400 | Sp | 48 | 3 |
| SPN 4390 Latin American Literature in Film | 400 | Sp | 48 | 3 |
| SSP 141 Basic Spanish for Health Professions * | 100 | Sp | 60 | 4 |
| SSP 241 Intermediate Spanish for Health Professions * | 200 | Sp | 60 | 4 |
| SSP 341 Advanced Spanish for Health Professions * | 300 | Sp | 60 | 4 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ART 2130 Mural Painting and Public Art * | 200 | En | 60 | 4 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SUSD 3100 Gender and Sustainability * | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
| SUSD 3160 Systems Thinking and Sustainability | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| THEO 3150 Major World Religions | 300 | En | 48 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENV 3120 Land Vertebrates of Costa Rica | 300 | En | 60 | 4 |
Interested in taking your career to the next level?
Where You'll Stay
We offer different housing options to match your budget, preferences, and study abroad goals. Housing options may change and will be confirmed on the housing application form prior to the start of the term. Below are the housing options that have been offered in the past.
Global Housing Standards
Learn more about what's included with CEA CAPA housing.
Learn more about what's included with CEA CAPA housing.
Read More
Global Housing Standards
Your housing abroad is more than a place to sleep, it's a place to feel at home.
Health & Safety
Health and safety are a top priority when selecting and reviewing program housing. When evaluating housing, CEA CAPA considers several factors including the surrounding location, commute time to academic or internship settings, as well as the condition of the building exterior and interior, common areas, the individual housing unit, and other living spaces. CEA CAPA works to ensure that program housing meets established minimum health and safety guidelines and aligns with best practices in the field.
Cleaning Services
Regular cleaning of communal areas for programs longer than 4 weeks.
Wi-Fi
Reliable internet access is included in every housing option we offer.
Students Per Bedroom
Typically 1–2 students per bedroom, with a maximum of 3 per room.
Commute Time
Housing is located within 60 minutes of campus by foot or transportation.
Temperature Control
Cooling and heating appliances are provided (AC not always included).
Kitchen Access
A shared space with basic utensils, refrigerator, freezer, and a stove, oven, or microwave.
Laundry
Access to laundry is guaranteed onsite or within walking distance. Drying racks included.
Study Space
A desk in your room or a table in a common area.
Storage Space
Practical, modest storage space for personal belongings.
Linens
Pillows, blankets and sheets.
Global Housing Standards apply to CEA CAPA-sourced housing only, beginning Summer 2026.
Housing provided by partner universities may differ slightly.
Homestay Shared Room
Immerse yourself in Costa Rican life by living in a welcoming home within walking distance from campus. You'll have a shared bedroom, and may share the homestay with additional students, fostering a unique group experience. Homestay includes 2 meals per day Monday - Sunday, and weekly laundry and cleaning service. This option is perfect for students eager to delve into the culture of San Jose, experiencing local traditions and cuisine firsthand.
This housing option is included in the program price.
Homestay Private Room
Immerse yourself in Costa Rican life by living in a welcoming home within walking distance from campus. You'll enjoy a private bedroom, and may share the homestay with additional students, fostering a unique group experience. Homestay includes 2 meals per day Monday - Sunday, and weekly laundry and cleaning service. This option is perfect for students eager to delve into the culture of San Jose, experiencing local traditions and cuisine firsthand.
This housing option carries a supplemental fee that may vary depending on the included amenities as well as the length of the program. The exact amount will be provided on the housing application form.
Excursions
Get out and explore! Excursions are offered for most semester, year, and summer programs. Semester students are typically offered between two to three excursions and summer study students are typically offered between one to two excursions. You'll receive a calendar of excursions during orientation; here are a few day and overnight excursions we've offered in the past.
What's Included in your Program
From housing to excursions, our programs include a variety of inclusions to enhance your study abroad experience! Here are examples that may be available in San José. Inclusions vary by program – please contact our Enrollment and Advising team to find out what options are available for you.
- Airport Welcome
- Personalized Pre-Departure Advising
- Visa & Immigration Advising
- Financial Advising
- Tuition and Registration
- Onsite Orientation
- City Tour
- Onsite Staff Support
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance
- Travel Medical Insurance
- International Emergency Service Support
- Welcome & Farewell Events
- Centrally Located Housing
- Wellness Activities
- Cultural Engagement
- Language Exchanges
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Excursions
- Student Clubs & Organizations
- Host Institution Services & Amenities
- Career & Re-entry Workshop
- Official Transcript(s)
Sample Calendar
Below is a tentative itinerary for your program. Please note, dates and events below may change without prior notification. Contact CEA CAPA before purchasing airline tickets.
You will receive a finalized itinerary once you arrive onsite.
Note: Additional cultural activities/excursions or required course-related activities may be incorporated into your final itinerary. You are advised not to make personal travel arrangements until you have the final dates.
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
|
January 02
|
Arrival/Program Begins
Official Program Start Date. Students must arrive on this date in order to be welcome by CEA CAPA staff. |
|
January 03
|
Orientation
Mandatory CEA CAPA Orientation & Welcome Activities. |
|
January 04
|
Classes Begin
Classes begin at Universidad Veritas. |
|
March 20 - 28
|
School Break
Universidad Veritas is closed for Spring Break. No classes will be held. |
|
April 30
|
Classes End
This is the last day of classes at Universidad Veritas. |
|
May 01
|
Program Ends/Move-Out
Official Program End Date. Students must move out of housing no later than this day. |
Sample Budget
This budget contains costs that you can take to your financial aid office. Please note that amounts may fluctuate; we've included a range of costs.
Federal law allows the use of financial aid to cover "reasonable" costs of study abroad including round-trip transportation, tuition and fees for the program, living costs, passport and visa fees, health insurance, and more.
Please note that all costs and charges listed below are subject to change without notice. With the exception of Program Price, all costs are estimates and may vary.