Costa Rica: The Science, History and Culture of Chocolate

Visit UGA Costa Rica on this two-week adventure and experience the horticultural practices and processes involved in chocolate production.

About the Program

In your study of chocolate production and the science behind it, you’ll visit:

production farms where cacao is grown
walk through cacao orchards
handle and taste fresh cacao
tour chocolate manufacturing facilities
participate in all the steps it takes to go from bean to bar

Beyond processing, you’ll learn about horticultural practices associated with cacao that increase productivity and mitigate pests and diseases. You will learn how to conduct a sensory analysis of chocolate and will study its health benefits as they relate to chocolate’s chemistry and biochemistry.

You’ll also be exposed to the culture behind chocolate, its history, the technology behind its evolution and socioeconomic issues associated with the production of chocolate.

On-site lectures and labs will be offered at the University of Georgia Costa Rica campus. Other opportunities include a hike through the cloud forest, zip lining and a guided natural history tour. And a traditional Thanksgiving meal will be served on the UGA’s Costa Rica campus.

International Travel Scholarship

Application Closed

Application Deadline: March 1, 2019

International travel scholarships for $800 are available to support CAES student travel to study abroad programs and international internship programs. Students may apply in one of two application cycles, according to their departure date. Students departing on an international program during the current fall semester or spring semester of the following year should apply between August 1 - November 1. Students departing during the Maymester or summer semester should apply between December 1 - March 1. Applications received by the deadline date will be given full consideration.