COSTA RICA
MEDICINE & HEALTHCARE DISCOVERY
Explore your passion for medicine and public health in the heart of Costa Rica while immersing yourself in hands-on experiences and unforgettable adventures.
Highlights
FOR THE MEDICINE & HEALTHCARE DISCOVERY PROGRAM
- Work side-by-side with local healthcare professionals and collaborate on campaigns to support children & the elderly
- Support ophthalmologists with vision test screenings in local elementary schools
- Collaborate with local health professionals in physical and occupational therapy at elderly care centers and nursing homes
- Lead a dental health workshop in a local community
- Discover the beauty of Costa Rica through visits to waterfalls and beaches
- Explore a national park, hike around a volcano & through valleys, and go on a ziplining adventure
Program Menu For
Medicine & Healthcare Discovery
COSTA RICA
MEDICINE & HEALTHCARE DISCOVERY
Program Overview
This program offers students a unique opportunity to explore different of areas of medicine and public health. Through hands-on campaigns with medical professionals in vision screening, physical and occupational therapy and dental health education, you will not only gain insight into the medical field, but also develop an understanding for the importance of public health education and management.
Beyond the health-focused learning, you’ll also experience Costa Rican culture and have unforgettable adventures along the way. Dance your heart out and try your hand at local cuisine during lively, locally-led lessons. Immerse yourself in history during a city tour, conquer a volcano hike, learn to catch a wave during a surf lesson and explore the wonders of a biodiverse national park.
Featured Theme
Featured Destinations
COSTA RICA
MEDICINE & HEALTHCARE DISCOVERY
Community Service
Your service work in Costa Rica will provide you with hands-on opportunities to learn about health and wellness in action. Support ophthalmologists with vision tests in local elementary schools, where proper vision care is essential for students to learn and grow. Then, work alongside local health professionals in physical and occupational therapy at elderly centers and nursing homes. Lead a dental health workshop in the community and visit health clinics to gain insights into the Costa Rican healthcare system. You’ll also support local initiatives to improve health conditions and promote good practices!
Hands-on Learning
Gain a deeper understanding of the Costa Rican healthcare system through service work and discussions with guest speakers. Visit a local health clinic to learn all about its operations and how it serves the community. Explore the difference between medicine and public health, with one focusing on treatment and the other on prevention, and how these two concepts are interrelated in healthcare. Engage in thought-provoking discussions on the topic of universal healthcare vs. private healthcare, exploring whether Costa Rica should maintain its universal healthcare system or allow for greater privatization of healthcare services. You’ll also learn from doctors about the common health issues in Costa Rica and the social context affecting vulnerable populations, like children and the elderly. Uncover the critical connection between health and the environment as you explore a protected natural environment famous for its biodiversity. And don’t forget to enjoy Costa Rica’s world-famous Pura Vida culture while you’re here!
Adventure
No GLA program can truly be complete without adventure, and there’s plenty to experience during your time in Costa Rica! Beyond your exploration of public health and medicine, immerse yourself in the diversity of Costa Rica’s natural wonders. Soar through the rainforest on ziplines for a rush of adrenaline. Discover remote waterfalls, bask in the sun on beautiful beaches, and explore the diverse ecosystems of a national park. Try your hand at surfing, whether you’re a pro or a complete beginner. Finally, challenge your peers and local community members in a soccer (or fútbol) match.
Lodging
Nestled in the Central Valley, your home away from home will be a locally-owned bed & breakfast in a picturesque setting. Two large houses are connected, featuring many common areas and a beautiful indoor green space filled with plants. There’s also a spacious outdoor area perfect for group activities and relaxation.
COSTA RICA
MEDICINE & HEALTHCARE DISCOVERY
Dates & Tuition
Everything you need to know before you apply.
14-Day Program
| 2025 Dates |
|---|
| JUN 09 – JUN 22, 2025 |
| JUN 26 – JUL 09, 2025 |
| JUL 13 – JUL 26, 2025 |
| JUL 30 – AUG 12, 2025 |
Tuition Includes All In-Country Expenses
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- In-country transportation
- Lodging
- 3 meals per day
- Professional full-time staff and experts
- 24/7 parent support hotline during the program
- Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
- Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
- Pre-departure materials and support
- Educational materials
To save your spot, an application fee and $600 deposit are required.
Backed by our 5-Point Safety System™
GLA HOME BASE:
SAFE & SECURE LODGING
CARING SUPERVISION &
EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
SAFE
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTHY FOOD
& PURE WATER
24/7 SUPPORT &
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Speak with the GLA Admissions Team
Admissions
Phone Number
1-858-771-0645
USA Toll-Free
Phone Number
1-888-358-4321
Admissions
Email Address
info@experienceGLA.com
COSTA RICA
MEDICINE & HEALTHCARE DISCOVERY
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