Overview
The National University of Costa Rica (UNA) is one of the country’s four public universities and a key institution in Costa Rica’s higher education system. Established in 1973, UNA has developed a distinctive profile focused on social sciences, environmental studies, and education, complementing the offerings of the older University of Costa Rica. Its main campus in Heredia, about 10 km north of San José, features a striking modernist design integrated with lush tropical vegetation.
UNA is particularly recognized for its progressive approach to education and strong commitment to social justice, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. The university has pioneered innovative programs in areas like sustainable tourism, alternative education models, and tropical biodiversity conservation. With additional campuses in Pérez Zeledón, Liberia, and Sarapiquí, UNA serves students from across the country while maintaining its reputation for academic rigor and social relevance.
2. General Information
| Name | National University of Costa Rica (Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica) |
| Established | 1973 |
| Type | Public University |
| Location | Main Campus: Heredia; 3 regional campuses |
| Website | www.una.ac.cr |
| Language of Instruction | Spanish (some English options in graduate programs) |
| Academic Calendar | Quarter system (trimestral) |
3. Fee Structure
| Program | Annual Cost (CRC/USD) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Costa Rican) | CRC 300,000-600,000 (~$500-1,000) |
| Undergraduate (International) | $2,000-4,000 |
| Graduate Programs | $3,000-6,000 |
| Doctoral Programs | $4,000-7,000 |
4. Academic Programs
- Faculty of Philosophy and Letters
- Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences
- Faculty of Social Sciences
- Faculty of Earth and Sea Sciences
- Faculty of Health Sciences
- Faculty of Education
- International Institute for Wildlife Conservation
- Institute for Women’s Studies
- School of Music
5. Facilities
- Central Library with specialized collections
- Biological Research Stations
- Environmental Education Center
- Modern laboratories for science programs
- Sports complex and recreational areas
- University Radio (Radio Universidad)
- Cultural Center with theater and galleries
- Extensive digital learning resources
6. Accommodation
UNA provides limited on-campus housing primarily for international students and those from distant regions. Most students live in private accommodations in Heredia and surrounding areas, which offer numerous affordable options. The university’s housing office assists students in finding suitable living arrangements.
- 2 residence halls with capacity for 300 students
- 24-hour campus security
- Shared kitchen facilities
- Study rooms and common areas
- Easy access to public transportation
7. Contact Information
- Email: info@una.ac.cr
- Phone: +506 2277-3000
- Address: Campus Omar Dengo, Heredia, Costa Rica
- Admissions: admision@una.ac.cr
More Universities in Costa Rica
- University of Costa Rica
- Universidad Latina de Costa Rica
- Fidélitas University
- EARTH University
- Universidad Tecnológica Nacional
- Universidad Latinoamericana de Ciencia y Tecnología
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