This course will provide students with an introduction to Costa Rican history and culture. The socio-economic and political features that have shaped and defined the history and development path of Costa Rica will be explored. The major social issues that have emerged to the present day will be uncovered to provide the student with an understanding of how Costa Rica’s present-day culture has been shaped. Students will have the opportunity to explore three main areas: (i) the historical dynamics that have influenced contemporary Costa Rica’s cultural profile, (ii) the global and regional dynamics that have influenced the history and cultural development of Costa Rica, and (iii) Costa Rican characteristics in its present-day society and culture.