About Costa Rica
With over 27% of its land protected from development, this is an
environmental safe haven for a plethora of flora and fauna. Located in
Central America with Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the South,
this country’s name literally means “Rich Coast.” Its dry season is
between December and April because it typically rains less. From
December to February schools are closed for a summer vacation and
tourism increases. Over one million visitors come annually to partake in
the surfing, sun tanning, and hiking available in the country—making
tourism the number one industry for employment and investment. In May,
the rainy season comes but the famous turtles can still be spotted from
February until late October.
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Costa Rican
Educational System
Costa Rica boasts a
94.5% literacy rate with citizens spending an average of 12 years in
formal education in a classroom. As of 2004, Costa Rica allots 4.9% of
its gross domestic product for education. Costa Rica did not have a
university until 1940, but now there are 4 public universities and
numerous private ones. The University of Costa Rica is the oldest of the
institutions and located in San Jose with branches in Alajuela,
Puntarenas, Cartago, and Turrialba. The National University located in
Heredia promotes studies in liberal arts, professional studies, and
sciences. Overall, the educational opportunities for Costa Ricans have
increased dramatically since the 1970s due to changes in government
policies and a new level of importance placed on education.
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