MA in Israel studies at The University of Haifa

Academic institutions in Israel invite you to participate in international programs, earn credits or complete your degree. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to see the sites, to meet new people from all around the world, to hear Hebrew and Arabic, and to come to a closer understanding of Israeli society.

MA in Israel studies at The University of Haifa - for international students

At The University of Haifa, students can take part in a master program in Israel studies in English. The program is suitable for both international students and Israeli students, it is conducted in English. The students studying at The University of Haifa come from a wide range of groups including Jews, Muslims, Christians, Bedouin, and others who study together.

This MA in Israel studies program allows students to expand their knowledge of the Israeli experience. Students can learn about a wide range of historical, social, and political issues related to Israel and Judaism.

The scholarly interest in Israeli history and society is on the rise lately. In Israel, many research centers focus on relevant issues and co-operate with institutes around the globe. These academic connections help enrich the discourse on Israeli and Judaic studies.

Study program

During their studies, student learn various important topics in Jewish and Israeli history, society, and politics, as well as relevant issues in the Middle East. They can focus on historical and present-day issues regarding Israeli society, the state of Israel and the diaspora.

The courses are sub divided into three categories:

History of the state of Israel and Zionism

Jewish diasporas in the twentieth century

Contemporary Israel - culture, law, sociology, and minorities in Israel today

Structure and duration

This program spans one year and includes 3 semesters.

Students can choose between a thesis track (track A) and a non-thesis track (Track B) with a final exam. The thesis track is suitable for those who intend on continuing to doctoral studies and taking part in research.

Curriculum

Here are a few of the courses studied in the program:

Arab - Jewish relations

Jews in the Middle Ages

Israeli society and politics

Israeli cinema and television

Women in rabbinic literature

The holocaust in Polish culture

Nationalism and Israeli archaeology

Faculty

The head of the program, Dr. Judith Bronstein, is a researcher who focuses on the crusade movement and published a book on this subject, as well as numerous academic papers. Her current research deals with medieval culture and its impact on the building of the Jewish nation.

Admissions

Candidates interested in applying must comply with the following requirements:

Undergraduate degree in social science or the humanities from recognized universities in Israel or abroad

GPA of 3.0 or above (80%)

An official transcript of the degree and copy of diploma

TOEFL exam when applicable

Two recommendations from academic faculty members

Personal essay or statement of interest 500 - 750 words

CV - resume

Those who do not hold a BA in history will be required to study relevant courses.

Diploma

Graduates receive a mater degree (MA) in Israel studies and a certificate of specialization in Israel studies and twentieth century Jewish history.