Monteverde
Monteverde, Costa Rica

Summer Global Internship

Study Program Full-Time Internship

Dates

-

8 weeks

Costs

Credit

6 semester hours

9 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Spend your summer interning abroad in Monteverde, a unique region known for its biological diversity, multicultural society, and the efforts its community organizations and businesses make to conserve natural resources and mitigate climate change. During your summer internship, you'll gain new skills and abilities while living in one of the few ecosystems of a Tropical Cloud Forest. Discover first-hand the initiatives and ventures involved in balancing an economy and ecotourism without compromising sustainability, human well-being, community resilience, conservation, climate action, and more in this biodiverse Costa Rican region.

Unique Experiences

LEARN FROM COSTA RICAN ECO-ENTREPENEURS

who are forward-thinking in their climate-smart practices that are developing green businesses in Monteverde

LIVE IN A RURAL MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY

surrounded by a tropical cloud forest and friendly Costa Ricans

PUT NEW SKILLS INTO PRACTICE

as you complete your internship program that gives you an in-depth look at sustainable development in the tropics

Experience
  • monteverde jungle overlook rainy day
  • student cross bridge costa rica green

The Destination

Monteverde lies along the continental divide at the crest of the Cordillera de Tilarán mountain chain in the northwestern region of Costa Rica, which is blanketed by the cool and wet Cloud Forest extending into the Atlantic lowlands. The Cloud Forest provides a striking contrast to the deciduous forest on the Pacific side.  

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve was established in 1972 to protect the entire ridge above Monteverde and down into the Peñas Blancas Valley. As a result of its unique history and geography, Monteverde is a stunning home to exotic flora, fauna, and wildlife and sustainability projects, including agriculture, energy production, water conservation, forest management, and biodiversity conservation.  

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Monteverde.

The Culture

big leaf study abroad student monteverde

EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES

  • Visit natural destinations, such as national parks or reserves, to experience Costa Rica’s biodiversity and natural beauty.  
  • Rise with the sun for birding tours or farm chores and experiencing biodiversity after the sun goes down with a guided night hike in the forest.  
  • Explore indoor and outdoor areas with access to forest trails and gardens for recreation, self-exploration, and co-curricular activities.  
  • Visit local businesses involved with tourism and learn from residents about their opinions on the good, the bad, and all the rest of tourism development.

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Costa Rica Study Abroad: The Ultimate Guide

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

If you're considering Costa Rica study abroad, you're in for a treat! This paradise, known for its “pura vida” lifestyle, offers the perfect blend of adventure and academics. With stunning... keep reading

From CIEE

8 Best Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Dreaming of palm trees, pristine beaches, and endless adventure? Costa Rica study abroad might be exactly what you’ve been looking for! Known for its incredible biodiversity, "pura vida" lifestyle, and... keep reading

From CIEE

What are the Best Places to Study Abroad in Latin America?

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

If you’re reading this, you’re probably ready to take your college experience to the next level with an extraordinary study abroad adventure. What better way to do than by discovering... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

As a global intern in Monteverde, you’ll work in a non-paying position within a range of opportunities across a diverse set of innovative businesses focused on sustainable practices, climate change mitigation, or conservation and take an integrated academic course. Internship opportunities will include research options on themes regarding conservation, carbon storage, climate change, and other related research-driven fields. Extra-curricular and cultural activities in and around the Monteverde region complement your internship and coursework. 

Research opportunities may include monitoring long-term forest regeneration plots to assess carbon storage rates or how the effects of climate change can be measured. Furthermore, students can research the effectiveness of regenerative grazing to determine its importance in lowering the ecological footprint of livestock.

GPA

2.5
 

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.
 

Additional Requirements

Rising sophomore standing and above required at time of participation.

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

Students participate in an academic course taught in a hybrid learning environment alongside the eight-week, full-time internship. Participation in the integrated academic course and internship are mandatory for all participants.

Program Credit

Total credit: 6 U.S. semester / 9 quarter credits

Course Credit

Internship: 6 U.S. semester/9 quarter credits; 15 integrated academic course hours, 225-300 internship placement hours

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

Students are expected to behave professionally throughout their internship project and are subject to the agreed upon internship protocols arranged by CIEE and the host organizations. The academic course is designed to prepare students for leadership in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse workforce.
 

Class Format

Students participate in an eight-week CIEE full-time internship and an integrated online academic course. Class and/or work hours may be scheduled Monday-Friday, and attendance is strictly enforced.  To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel away from the city during the work week.

Grading

Students will be assessed via assignments and activities related to the academic course, including but not limited to, online discussion forums, reflective papers, individual or group presentations, analysis of readings, an internship work plan, and feedback from internship supervisor. Internship supervisors and students each provide written evaluations of progress towards goals.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

Summer Session II 2025

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE 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 CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Internships

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 CIEE 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.  

A female intern picks crops from a field

Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources

Gain experience in agricultural markets, agribusiness companies, and NGOs to study food production and global processes.

A intern teacher works with her students in the classroom

Education and Training

Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.

A restaurant manager reviews information on a table with a chef

Hospitality and Tourism

Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.

A female intern listens to instructions from her teacher

Manufacturing

Study global supply chains, production technologies, and international business strategies in England, Singapore, and more.

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 CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE 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
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • CIEE STEM Scholarship

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, 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 Summer 2025 8 weeks Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $7,450

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 CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE 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 CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $4,450**

Housing = $2,500***

Insurance = $200

Total Fees = $7,450

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $0

International Airfare = $650

Local Transportation = $100

Books & Supplies = $50

Personal expenses = $170††

Total Costs = $970

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable

**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.

All meals are included

††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

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

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Pablo Allen

Center Director

Pablo is a native Costa Rican, born and raised in San José. He is an an evolutionary ecologist interested in sexual selection, animal weapons, and phenotypic plasticity. Since rejoining CIEE...

Jessica Arias

Academic Director

Jessica has a PhD on Agricultural Science from the University of Costa Rica. She earned a BSc. in Ecotourism and an MSc. in Sustainable Development, with a concentration in Conservation of...

Jose Carlos Calderon

Student Life Manager

"Moncho" earned his BSc in Biology at the University of Costa Rica with a specialization in bats. He has worked for CIEE Monteverde for over 10 years as Assistant Instructor...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Utilize the Internship Search Tool

Search our catalog of internship opportunities to view the placements that align best with your academic and professional goals.

2

Start a Program Application

You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!

3

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

4

Contact CIEE

We're here to help! Email us if you have questions or need help applying to this program. Upon your acceptance, you'll speak with on-site CIEE staff about your internship goals. CIEE will reach out to companies that align with your goals, interests, and qualifications.

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