Understanding Israeli Identities Hands-On

In this course we will explore different perspectives on identity and life in Israel. Israel’s diverse population, which includes Jewish and Arab Israelis, immigrants from many countries, a great variety of national and religious affiliations and more – is what gives Israel its strength. However, interactions between these cultures, nationalities, and religious groups also create significant challenges. We will meet representatives of Israeli cultural, religious and national groups, and learn from them about their work and life. We will explore how these experiences shape their identity. 

You will conduct observation and interview assignments in different locations of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, and participate in excursions to other parts of the country. By reflecting on your experiences, field trips and discussing course readings, you will write a research report on identity and experience in Israel.

The core of this class is learning from your experiences in Israel. To enhance your understanding of the core issues that make Israeli identities, you will read about the lives of Israeli Arabs and their relationship to the State of Israel, understand the recent history of immigration to the State, and study Israel’s political, educational, and economical systems. You will actively reflect on your experiences, observations and interviews. A central part of your work in this course will be devoted to empirical observations and interviews, and on-site visits to various sites around Israel. You will write a report which narrates your research process on issues related to Israeli identity.

Structure 

The course meets Mondays, Tuesday, and Wednesdays for three hours per day with additional educational tours on Sundays and once on a Friday.

Course Components

• Readings
• Class journal
• Site visits and fieldwork
• Final research presentation and paper

See July Session summer schedule below. 

View the syllabus

You’ll be invited to participate in a wide array of trips, tours, and activities offered by the Office of Student Life. From a tour of the Old City to a trip to the Dead Sea to checking out the local festivals, you’ll build your own unique impressions and memories of Jerusalem and Israel. While residing in HebrewU dormitories with other international and Israeli students, you’ll have a chance to form new friendships and get involved in campus life. A team of multilingual Israeli students, called madrichim, is also there to help you adjust to your new surroundings and give you tips on things to do. Learn more about student life at HebrewU.

Apply by: April 15, 2023
Arrive on campus: July 3, 2023
Program length: Four weeks

Application fee: US$ 120
Course: US$ 2,100
Housing: US$ 850

* Depending on availability

Learn more about fees, cost of living, and paying for the program.

Scholarships

A limited number of scholarships based on demonstrated need or merit are available.

Students who complete their summer course application by February 15, 2023 and who also complete payment by March 15, 2023, will be eligible for a 10% early bird discount on the course tuition. In the event that a student applies for more than one summer course, the 10% early bird discount will be applied to one of the summer courses only.

This course is open to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as to mature learners with an academic background. You must be currently registered at or have been accepted to a recognized college or university or have successfully completed at least one year of study at an accredited institution of higher education. English-language fluency is also required.