Study Abroad at Hebrew University

Studying at top-ranked Hebrew University’s Rothberg International School (RIS) will inspire you. Experience Israel’s remarkable culture through field trips and social activities, as well as through optional subject-specific tracks and courses on Hebrew language, Israel, and the Middle East. Jerusalem will be a second classroom for you, full of colorful sights, sounds, smells, and tastes.

You can choose from a wide range of topics while studying in Jerusalem, a center of historical, political, and religious significance. Our city is also central in the development of advanced technology and innovative entrepreneurship. You can even advance your career through an internship with one of Israel’s leading organizations. Whether you study for a semester or year, your life will be richer with Jerusalem as your second home.

Why Study Abroad at HebrewU?

Live in Jerusalem, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, advanced technology, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Build self-reliance and career skills through volunteer work or an internship.
Make connections with Israelis and international students.
Develop artistic abilities through unique art, music, and dance programs – or gain experience in international relations, human rights, behavioral sciences, and more.
Immerse yourself in the fascinating mosaic of Israeli life and culture.

The Jerusalem Experience

While studying at HebrewU, you’ll experience Jerusalem’s incredible mosaic of cultures, foods, religions, and peoples. Stroll through a lively street market, or spend an evening with friends at a trendy nightclub. Intern with an Israeli start-up, or volunteer with one of the many nonprofit organizations here. Immerse yourself in the lively arts and culture scene, or pursue another interest that will connect you to the city through an independent study project.

Entrepreneurs, creatives, scholars, scientists, and activists all flock to Jerusalem, making it an exciting place to study abroad. You’ll make new friends and new memories as you discover first-hand Jerusalem’s rich history, as well as its vibrant and innovative culture. Learn more about Jerusalem and start planning your adventure.

Student Life

You’ll be invited to participate in a wide array of trips, tours, and activities offered by the Office of Student Life, including a tour of the Old City, a trip to the Dead Sea, and festivals that are held throughout the year. Build your own unique impressions and memories of Jerusalem and Israel. Housing on the Mount Scopus Campus is available for you as a study abroad student. Living with other international and Israeli students provides you with the opportunity to form new friendships and get involved in campus life. A team of multilingual Israeli students, called madrichim, are 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.

Curriculum

Your program will begin with an intensive Hebrew-language course (ulpan) and continue through the semester with Hebrew or Arabic language study and elective courses in the following diverse areas:

Jewish Civilization, Religion and History
Middle East and Islamic Studies
Political Science and International Relations
Israel Studies: History, Politics, Society and Culture
Psychology and Cognitive Sciences
Conflict and Security Studies
Business and Law
Education
Global Studies
Arabic Language

Internships

If you are a full-time student, you can opt to do a professional internship each semester with a partner organization for eight hours each week. Internships are organized and monitored by a special coordinator at RIS.

Independent Study Option

You may also submit a proposal to carry out an independent study project (for 3 credits). You’ll complete the project under the supervision of a faculty member or expert in the field, who will serve as your mentor and evaluate your project. Submit your proposal by the first week of classes.

Volunteer Option

If you are looking for a volunteer opportunity to complement your studies, we invite you to visit our Office of Student Life (OSL), where they can help you arrange an option tailored to your needs and availability.

The JDC–Hebrew University Fellowship in Service

You can also apply to participate in a prestigious community service program in collaboration with the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), the largest developer of social programs in the country. The JDC touches the lives of one in four Israelis. This program allows you to engage in meaningful service work with one of Jerusalem’s most vulnerable populations, including at-risk youth, persons with disabilities, unemployed Ultra-Orthodox Jews (Haredi), and others in need. If accepted to this highly selective program, you will undergo in-depth educational development and training relating to your placement.

Explore HU Study Abroad