Program Site
La Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) is based in the capital of Ecuador, considered one of the most beautiful regions in Latin America. Located in the Andean mountains at the foot of Mount Pichincha 9200 feet above sea level, Quito has a spring-like climate all year. Beautifully preserved colonial churches, convents, palaces, and other buildings of note contrast with the contemporary architecture of modern Quito, a cosmopolitan city of great cultural diversity, Quito has been designated the "Heritage of Mankind" by the United Nations.

A private Ecuadorian University developed on the American model, USFQ was founded in 1985 and enrolls more than 2,000 students in degree programs such as: Agriculture, Nutrition, Applied Science, Ecology, Architecture, Liberal Arts, Education, Art, Economics, and Finance. In 1994, the University moved to its new, modern campus in the region of Cumbaya, a short drive from the center of the city.

Academic Program Highlights
The courses offered include Tropical Ecology, Spanish Language at all levels, Latin American Literature, Andean History, Ecuadorian Art, Latin America/US Relations, Andean Anthropology, Latin American themes. El Boom Literature.

Program Duration
May 26 - July 25

Application Deadline*
March 15

*Note: Contact Rio Salado College for exact date.

Recommended Credits
9 credits

Transcripts
For all courses taken at the Universidad San Francisco de Quito where there are equivalent courses in the MCCCD, the official record for those credits will be posted on the MCCCD, Rio Salado College, transcript.

Eligibility:
2.5 GPA, transcripts, 2 letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, 2 years of college spanish or equivalent.

Student Life
All students live with Ecuadorian host families and generally use public transportation to reach the campus. This homestay arrangement facilitates the students' immersion into the Ecuadorian culture. Two to three meals per day are provided. In addition to several tours within Quito, field trips to other areas of interest in Ecuador are organized.

Costs:
The cost of a summer program may vary as changes occur in the economies and currencies of the U.S. and abroad. The factors listed below are used to calculate program costs.

  • Tuition at Rio Salado College (assessed according to the student’s residency status).
  • Program costs abroad, including instruction, housing, application and orientation fees, insurance, books and field trips.
  • Transportation to the designated country.‚

Costs Included:
Instructional costs abroad, room, board, field trips, fees, orientation.

Not Included:
Tuition at Rio Salado College (assessed according to the student's residency status and number of credit hours).
Airfare ($600-$800), personal expenses ($200-$500/month), textbooks ($50-$150), insurance ($50/month)

All costs, fees, and dates are subject to change without notification. Please contact the appropriate individual to verify all costs, fees, and dates for this program.

Financial Aid
Any financial aid for which students are eligible during the course of their study at Rio Salado College, including Pell Grants, can be used toward the cost of the program in Ecuador.

For More Information
Office of International Education
Rio Salado College
2323 W. 14th St.
Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 517-8416
(480) 517-8849 Fax
Contact: Erma Abeyta, Director of International Programs
OIE@riomail.maricopa.edu