Important Program Information
Academic Course Term: Summer 2027 Semester
Tentative Travel Dates: May 25 – June 4, 2027
´¡±è±è±ô¾±³¦²¹³Ù¾±´Ç²Ô:ÌýJanuary 15, 2027
STUDENTS MUST HAVE RECEIVED APPROVAL FROM FACULTY LEADERS BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION.
ENROLLMENT IS LIMITED TO 20 PARTICIPANTS.
Scholarship Application Deadline: November 1, 2026
Interest Meetings:Â For more details, please contact the faculty leaders, as faculty approval is required to participate.
Program Description
Experience a transformative interprofessional journey in the heart of Central America! Designed specifically for 51ÇàÂ¥ Physical Therapy and Nursing students, this faculty-led study abroad program bridges clinical knowledge with global health insights. Set in Costa Rica’s stunning Nicoya Peninsula—one of the world’s rare “Blue Zones”—you will discover firsthand how lifestyle, daily habits, deep community bonds, natural nutrition, and connection to nature foster unmatched human health and longevity.
Through immersive service-learning and interdisciplinary collaboration, you will elevate your clinical reasoning, cultural competency, and leadership skills while caring for diverse populations in a unique global healthcare landscape.
Destination Highlights:
-
The Nicoya Blue Zone: Explore one of only five designated Blue Zones in the world, renowned for its remarkably high concentration of centenarians and vibrant culture of wellness.
- Pristine Natural Landscapes: Study in a region surrounded by lush tropical biodiversity, pristine Pacific beaches, and eco-friendly communities that embody the Pura Vida lifestyle.
- Cultural & Community Immersion: Engage directly with local Nicoyan residents, elders, and healthcare practitioners, gaining authentic insights into the daily routines and social structures that drive regional longevity.
Program Highlights & Activities:
- Interprofessional Clinical Practice: Work side-by-side as PT and Nursing cohorts, building cross-disciplinary teamwork, adaptability, and communication skills vital for modern healthcare.
-
Community Service-Learning: Apply real-world clinical knowledge to address community health needs while developing strong cross-cultural competency.
- Longevity & Lifestyle Fieldwork: Participate in guided observations, interactive workshops, and discussions on how daily occupations, diet, movement, and stress reduction impact long-term patient outcomes.
Program Cost & Scholarships
Program Costs
, for more information about the total cost to attend the program, including Student Program Fee and tuition, payment deadlines, and details regarding financial aid and scholarships.
Scholarships
Students attending this program may be eligible to apply for the following institutional study abroad scholarships:
- Office of Education Abroad Study Abroad Scholarship (All)
- EDGE Funding (Undergraduate only)
- Travel Abroad Grant (TAG/Undergraduate only)
Visit our Scholarships webpage for more information about these scholarship and the eligibility requirements to apply.
Course Offerings
- PTHY 5190Â Topics in Physical Therapy: International Study Field Trip/Clinical Practicum
- NURS 3V13 Special Studies in Nursing
Faculty Leaders
Dr. Annemieke Corbitt
Clinical Instructor I, DPT Core Faculty
Dr. Corbitt brings a strong international perspective shaped by her Dutch heritage and family ties in the Netherlands. Her travels include the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Greece, as well as China through a Physical Therapy program and various tropical destinations. These experiences have deepened her appreciation for global health, diverse cultures, and meaningful connections. She speaks conversational Dutch and has studied German, further strengthening her ability to engage across cultures.
Dr. Ruth Ann Mathis
Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy
Dr. Mathis joined UCA in 2024 and prior to that, was an Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Harding University where she served as the Director of Clinical Education. Dr. Mathis has 28 years of clinical experience and has previously served on faculty teams leading students on medical mission trips to Nicaragua and Zambia.
±Ê°ù´Ç´Ú±ð²õ²õ´Ç°ùÌýHeather Vines
Clinical Instructor I, RN to BSN Track Leader
Professor Heather Vines, a faculty member teaching Community and Population Health Nursing, is passionate about global health, cultural perspectives, and the connection between nutrition, lifestyle, and longevity. Her interest in Blue Zone communities developed through community outreach focused on food as medicine for individuals with chronic illnesses. Her international experiences include a mission trip to Mexico and travel to Canada and Italy. With Spanish language study at both the high school and collegiate levels, she looks forward to connecting with Costa Rican communities and helping students explore global healthcare systems and cultures.