Courses - 15 total units
Spanish - 6 credits
Spanish classes at the beginning, intermediate and advanced levels offered through a highly respected Costa Rican language school.
Incarnational Ministry: Biblical Perspectives on International Ministry to the Poor - 3 credits
A survey of the biblical and theoretical basis for Christian mission with a special focus on the church’s ministry to the poor. Major attention will be given to key paradigms for mission and their application to the student’s ministry practicum context. Drawing on students’ experiences in their ministry sites, this course will address social, cultural, political and spiritual issues with an emphasis on holistic ministry responses and the gospel’s impact on both individuals and society. Incarnational and contextual approaches to mission will be a highlight throughout along with an overview of various contemporary missiological tends.
Peoples and Cultures of Costa Rica - 3 credits
The culture of the Costa Rica has developed through a unique mix of Spanish and native peoples. In this class students will explore the richness and complexity of Costa Rican culture with special attention given to the history, politics and religion of this Central American nation along with issues of race, ethnicity, class and family relationships that are unique to the country. Course sessions will be led by Costa Ricans with expertise in each of these areas and students will make visits to various sites of cultural significance.
International Internship - 3 credits
An intensive semester long experience in which the student is fully immersed in Costa Rican culture, involved in hands-on ministry and guided by a mentor. Goal setting and journaling activities will help students engage in self-reflection and mentor evaluations will provide them with constructive feedback about their ministry skills. Internships will be supervised by qualified North American instructor.
Optional: Additional Directed Study Course - 3 credits
An options additional class will be offered as a directed study from a Fresno Pacific University professor. Arrangements must be made in advance and will only be considered in special circumstances.
