Study Abroad in Managua, Nicaragua
Managua, the capital of Nicaragua, is home to the Universidad Centroamericana, Latin America's first private university. Fairfield University offers semester programs that combine classwork with opportunities for service and internships.
Nicaragua, the "land of lakes and volcanoes," is known for its natural beauty. Its three main regions present a diversity of settings: the Pacific region offers lakes, volcanoes, tropcial forests, and ocean beqaches; the mountainous central region is home to coffee plantations and rivers; and the coastline of the Atlantic region boasts rainforests and coral reefs. While tourism is growing (600,000 visitors in 2004), Nicaragua's beauty is still pristine. A recent Lonely Planet guide called Nicaragua one of the safest countries in Central America.
Managua, Nicaragua's capital, was settled in 1522 and ruled by the Spanish for more than 300 years. The country achieved independence in 1834. Built on the shores of Lake Managua, evidence of colonial architecture survives. A vibrant place to visit, Managua offers handicraft markets, outstanding local cuisine, music, museums, and views of Motombo volcano. Its hospital residents are its greatest asset.
Fairfield University's semester program in Managua is located at the Universidad Centroamericana (UCA). Founded in 1960 by the Jesuits, UCA's mission is to prepare young people for leadership roles in the development of their country. With that in mind, this programs offers North American students an opportunity to understand the challenges facing Nicaraguans as they confront issues of poverty, economic competitivness, and infrastructure development, and offers insights into Nicaragua's relationship with world powers and trading partners. The programs provides students with a tranforming experience, develops awareness of social justice issues, and prepares them for committed citizenship.
In keeping with the strong tradtion of service and social engagement at Fairfield University and Universidad Centroamericana, the program in Managua, Nicaragua offers participants exceptional opportunities for service-learning, internships,and community engagement. Depending on the student's level of Spanish, opportunities exist to work in several Managua's barrios, in health education and research, social justice, and education promotion.
A variety of courses are available, primarily in Spanish and with limited offerings in English. Students also receive Fairfield University credit and grades for work done at UCA. Nicaragua offers a bounty of natural beauty, warm and welcoming citizens, and the opportunity for a study abroad experience like no other!
Summer internships for three credits can be specially designed to meet your interests. Contact us for more information.