8 Sderot Yehudit, Tel Aviv, Israel
+1-888-705-8933
yearcourse@youngjudaea.org

Jerusalem Semester

The Jerusalem semester of Year Course offers an unparalleled experience in one of the most historic and vibrant cities in the world. From your home base at the Machon l'Madrichim, you'll immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of Jewish history, culture, and spirituality. You'll engage in thought-provoking courses exploring topics like Israeli society, Jewish texts, and leadership development, while exploring Jerusalem and surroundings.

Classes
Poland
Pardes
Accreditation

The Machon Experience

Learn more about the courses and experiences you'll have during the Jerusalem semester of Year Course.

Core Courses
Electives
LaOmek - Practicals
Core Courses

Year Course's core courses are accredited through Hebrew College in Boston and offer a comprehensive education in topics related to Israeli history and society, Jewish heritage and thought, and more. Our core courses include:

  • History of Zionism - Explore the origins, visionary leaders, and challenges that shaped the Jewish state. Engage in thought-provoking discussions, connect with key historical sites, and discover how Zionism continues to evolve today.
  • Jewish Thought and Practice - Dive into ancient wisdom, modern interpretations, and meaningful discussions on ethics, spirituality, and identity. Connect tradition with contemporary life and experience Judaism’s timeless relevance firsthand.
  • The Jewish People - Journey through history, culture, and shared values while examining the diversity of Jewish communities worldwide. Deepen your understanding of collective identity, strengthen your connection to the global Jewish family, and discover your role in its vibrant future.
Electives

Elective courses give participants numerous opportunities to find areas of Israeli and Jewish history, society and culture that speak to their specific interests. Here are some examples of electives that have been offered:

  • City of Faith - In a city with so much religious meaning, what do locals truly believe? Journey through Jerusalem's different religious communities to understand more about belief and faith.
  • Israel and Middle East Politics - Unpack key issues and regional conflicts shaping the region. Analyze current events, explore diverse perspectives, and gain a deeper understanding of one of the world’s most complex realities.
  • Leadership in Action - Develop essential leadership skills, tackle community projects, and explore Jewish values that inspire change. Gain the confidence, tools, and vision to lead with purpose and make a meaningful impact.
LaOmek - Practicals

LaOmek classes are practical experiences that take participants into the heart of Jerusalem's colorful culture and society. Here are some examples of electives that have been offered:

  • Jogging through Jerusalem - stretch your legs and your mind as you jog through some of Jerusalem's most beautiful and interesting neighborhoods, stopping along the way to learn about each location.
  • Journey through Religions - dig deep into the three monotheistic religions that call Jerusalem home, exploring different denominations and their holy sites, as well as meeting with community members.
  • Politics and Society - confront the day's headlines and gain a special look into current events by touring some of Jerusalem's most intriguing sites and communities.

Journey to Poland

During the Jerusalem semester, participants travel together with the Machon to Poland as part of a delegation of gap year students, to bear witness to the historical tragedies of the Jewish people and learn more about the future of Jewish life in Europe. Experiences include meeting with Holocaust survivors, touring former concentration camps, and exploring Jewish communities in Poland. This trip is included in the cost of Year Course for all participants.

Pardes Jewish Learning

During the Jerusalem semester, participants have the option to join the Year Course and Pardes Study Program, a comprehensive supplemental track that provides the opportunity for participants to delve into texts such as the Talmud, Midrash, Halacha, and Machshava and explore their historical, literary, and philosophical underpinnings.  

Learn more about the Pardes Jewish Learning Track

Academic Accreditation

Year Course is pleased to offer an accreditation partnership with Hebrew College, who are accredited through the New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE.)  Year Course participants are considered non-matriculated students and may also elect to opt out of for-credit classes, in exchange for alternate learning experiences. This partnership with Hebrew College allows Year Course participants the option to earn college credits through eligible Year Course classes.  With an educational emphasis on leadership, pluralism, and Jewish learning, Hebrew College is a perfect partner for Year Course, who share their similar educational goals.

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