The Minor in Community Engagement is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with the skills and creativity to solve problems in their own communities, and to develop students' own sense of self collective efficacy. The Community Engagement program allows students to build their civic agency, their interpersonal, leadership and advocacy skills, as well as their academic skills in critical analysis, appreciation for diversity, and an enhanced understanding of community issues and challenges. The program is ideal for students who seek academic and hands-on opportunities to make a measurable difference in improving the quality of life for citizens in the community and region.
Learning Outcomes:
- Demonstrate an appreciation for diversity
- Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively
- Demonstrate an enhanced understanding of community issues and challenges
- Demonstrate the ability and confidence to take initiative to become involved citizens
- Understand knowledge relating to community engagement principles
- Demonstrate an ability to critically analyze problems occurring within society
**Spring 2025 – New Course**
CEN/IS Global Community Engagement - Exploring COSTA RICA: Marketing & the Underground Economy (Study Area 2 and international requirement)
Additionally, the class can be counted towards your Major in Criminology, Economics, Marketing, or International Studies as well as the Minor in Community Engagement.
Exploring COSTA RICA: Marketing & the Underground Economy
Embark on a transformative journey into the depths of the clandestine world with our groundbreaking study abroad program: Marketing & the Underground Economy. Students explore the intersection of marketing, economics, and criminology culminating in the vibrant backdrop of Costa Rica. Our course offers a multidisciplinary approach, providing students with a nuanced understanding of the intricate dynamics shaping illicit trade networks. Learn about activities like online exploitation, illegal substance distribution, and the exchange of compromised information on the dark web.
Immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture:
- Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Manuel Antonio National Park, where lush rainforests meet pristine beaches.
- Journey to the Monteverde Institute and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
- Witness the harvest and production of coffee and chocolate beans.
- Tour the nation’s biodiversity conservation efforts at the Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center.
- Visit the U.S. Embassy and learn how the U.S. is represented in foreign countries, including in trade and economic development.
- Volunteer for a day with the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation.
Team taught by:
Dr. Julie Schnobrich-Davis (Criminology)
Dr. Carolyne Soper (Economics)
Dr. Jason Snyder (Marketing)
More information can be found in the Study Abroad Catalogue
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