Philip and Muriel Berman Center for Jewish Studies
Study in Israel

Study in Israel is encouraged to broaden students' understanding of Jewish civilization and culture. Several options are approved for Lehigh undergraduates.

Lehigh-in-Israel Program
Conditions permitting, a three-week course will be taught in Israel each summer by a member of the Berman Center's faculty. Topics will vary.

In the summer of 1999 and 2000, Professor Benjamin Wright, a specialist in early Judaism and Christianity, offered a four-credit course titled Archaeology and the Bible in the Land of Israel. Numerous ancient sites were visited including Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Jericho, Qumran, Masada, Caesarea, Acco, Nazareth, Sepphoris, Gamla, Beth Shean, and Hazor (pictures of the trip) The course was designed to give students a better understanding of the interaction between texts and archaeological remains and sensitize them to the difficulties of interpreting both. The Lehigh-in-Israel program has been suspended since 2000.

Israeli University Programs

Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv University offer semester, year, and summer programs that are taught in English. Course credits will transfer with prior approval from the appropriate Lehigh department. Note that semester and year programs require students to register for an intensive Hebrew course (ulpan) prior to the beginning of their semester of study.

For information on admission, academic calendar, requirements, courses, and fees, visit the websites of the Lowy School for Overseas Students at Tel Aviv University or the Rothberg International School at Hebrew University.

Howard Ballenzweig Awards for Study in Israel

Awards are available to support undergraduate students in programs of study in Israel. These include the programs listed above. Guidelines for the awards can be viewed on line.

For more information on Israel programs and scholarships, contact Shirley Ratushny at 610-758-3352 or e-mail the Berman Center at inber@lehigh.edu or the Lehigh Abroad Office at incis@lehigh.edu.