In terms of the number of described species, insects are easily the largest and most diverse group of animals. Insect diversity is most conspicuous in tropical latitudes where most of the centers of insect biodiversity are located. The wonder and intrigue of insects make them appealing subjects of study for students of all ages. Insect Natural History in Costa Rica is a study abroad course at UGA providing undergraduate, graduate and high school students an opportunity to experience the fauna and flora of the tropics first-hand during a four-week summer course. Students study insects and their natural history in tropical terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, combining lectures and field/lab work at UGA with direct field experience in Costa Rica. International service-learning and study abroad opportunities are an increasingly important component of UGA undergraduate programs and facilitate active academic engagement. This course allows students to enhance their global awareness of environmental and cultural issues through the use of insects as teaching tools, coupled with structured entomological public outreach experiences. This course combines the study of insects and their natural history through intense lectures, field/lab work and community outreach in Athens with direct field experience and community engagement in Costa Rica. Participants share entomological knowledge with the Costa Rican community through public outreach and service-learning experiences including teaching Costa Rican elementary students about local insects utilizing an insect zoo where students showcase live insects collected in Costa Rica. Students also distribute insect collecting equipment and arts and crafts supplies to the schools.