Sustainable Business Global Lab
Costa Rica represents one of the planet’s most outstanding examples of sustainability systems and practices that support a public and private partnership working toward a goal of carbon neutrality by 2021. As one of the most environmentally progressive nations in the world today, Costa Rica is a must-visit country for any student looking to make a splash in the field of sustainability. Through this program, you'll combine classroom learning and in-person business meetings to see firsthand how businesses address UN Sustainable Development Goals and tackle problems concerning sustainability in order to be a force for environmental and social good.
Previous business visits include Florex, SPHERA Sostenible, Starbucks, ICE, PROCOMER, Tico Electronics, and more (subject to change).
All majors/minors are welcome to join us on this program during Spring Break 2027!
More information & Application
Locations: San Jose and La Fortuna (subject to change based on availability), Costa Rica
Travel Dates: March 13 - March 21, 2027
Class Enrollment: Spring session 1 | Class time TBD
Academic Credit: BUSADM 2798 (1.5 credit hours)
Faculty: Scott Griffin
Application Deadline: October 5, 2026 at 11:59 pm
Program Fee: TBD (Spring 2026 program fee was $4,333)
Information Sessions:
- Monday, September 21, 2026 at 3:00pm | Mason Hall 229 or Teams
This program opened my eyes to the intricate world of sustainability within business through hands-on site visits, cultural immersion, and critical thinking. I loved the mix of culture and business on this trip and the opportunity to do things outside my comfort zone. The community, support, and experience of this trip are something that I'll never forget!
In order to be eligible to apply for this program, students must have a cumulative 2.75 GPA and meet OIA's General Eligibility Requirements and Conditions for Participation.
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled as undergraduate student at Ohio State - this program is open to ALL majors
- Be at least a second year student at the time of application
- Have no student record actions of "Warning," "Probation," or "Probation by Special Action"
All students will also be required to participate in on-campus pre-departure orientations organized by the Office of International Affairs.
We encourage students studying Environment, Economy, Development, and Sustainability (EEDS) to join us on this program! Talk to your advisor to see if this will count toward your specialization electives.
- Read the program brochure.
- Attend an information session: (see "Announcements" tab on the brochure for up to date times and links).
- Ask clarifying questions: Email the program manager for inquiries not covered in the information session (contact information is listed at the bottom of the page).
- Review the "Finance" tab on the program brochure.
- Apply for scholarships: If you have a declared major in Fisher, you will be eligible for the Fisher Global Grant.
- Clear your schedule: If you are accepted into this program, you must be able to attend the required course (see the "Academics" tab on the brochure for course information).
- If you're an international student, review the FAQ's about studying abroad as an international student. You will also need to
- Apply for the program! As you sit down to access the application, make sure you have:
- Your passport number. If you have not received your passport, or have not yet applied for one, you may still complete the online application, but remember that you may not participate in a study abroad program without a valid passport. Passports are taking up to 18 weeks, so please make sure you have ample time to apply for or renew an expired passport.
- Your Ohio State advising report, saved as a PDF to attach to the application.
- Names and contact information of the individuals you would like contacted in case of an emergency.
- A $150 application fee is required for all education abroad program applications. Should you choose to start an application, you will be notified to pay the application fee when it has been assigned as a material due. This application fee will be refunded only if you are not accepted to your study abroad program, if your program is canceled or if you withdraw your application prior to the application deadline.