In a time when understanding the past is essential to navigating the complexities of the present, the University of Haifa’s holistic and interconnected approach to Judaism, the Holocaust, and the State of Israel is more globally relevant than ever. Ancient Israelite kingdoms, two millennia of Diasporic life, the Zionist movement, the Holocaust, and constant geo-political challenges of the Jewish state and Startup Nation to date, are all crucial to understand what Israel is facing today. Following October 7th and the global rise in antisemitism, this multi-layered understanding is vital as we move forward into the future.
Led by globally renowned academic leaders, UHaifa International’s MA programs in Jewish Studies, Israel Studies and Holocaust Studies offer a broad understanding that is necessary for these re-trending fields. All three 1-year programs are taught in English and offer a personalized study mode with the freedom to choose from a wide range of courses and research options, together with attractive scholarship options and a unique Israel experience.
A Diversity of Perspectives: International Master’s in Holocaust Studies
“Our goal is to pave the way for a new generation of Holocaust experts,” says Anat Weiner, Director of the Weiss-Livnat International Master’s program in Holocaust Studies. This innovative, one-of-its-kind program explores the Holocaust through a diversity of perspectives, including history, anthropology, psychology, education, art, and technology. Its multidisciplinary concept trains students in the holistic modes of thought and practical skills necessary for a professional career in Holocaust education, commemoration, or research
These complex perspectives are magnified by the diversity of participating students from across the globe, bringing different narratives regarding the Holocaust and unique motivations for research. “Each student arrives with their personal ‘why’ for exploring the Holocaust,” explains Weiner, “they could be descendants of Holocaust survivors, students from countries involved in World War II, or any other country with a history of genocide. The motivations are numerous, and we encourage students to align with their personal story, interest, or passion.
One of the main reasons this globally renowned Master’s program stands out is its exclusive internship opportunities in Israel and abroad. These include Yad-Vashem, Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum, the Holocaust Museum L.A, the Simon Wiesenthal Center and more, where students acquire hands-on experience and work directly with leading experts on unique projects.
“For me, being part of the Weiss-Livnat Holocaust Studies Program has and continues to be, a deeply transformative experience, which has shaken me to my core in the best possible way”, says Erika Eveolimenko, a UHaifa graduate originally from Russia. “What makes this program truly one of a kind is its immersive nature, offering a multitude of perspectives and voices, unforgettable field experiences, seminars at world-class research centers and museums, and opportunities for impactful internships. But most of all, it is the people we met – brilliant, passionate, and diverse – breathing new life into discussions about events that are rapidly receding into history – events that must never be forgotten”
Eveolimenko adds that “Even in challenging times, the amazing staff has provided us with never-ending support. We have been cared for, respected, and heard, but never censored nor limited in our intellectual processes. The program was both our safe space and our happy place”. she concludes.
The program is also known for its broad and diverse network of filmmakers, Holocaust survivors, and professional experts whom the students work with in workshops and meet in field trips and at guest lectures, developing relationships that continue graduation. This network facilitates innovative projects and technology solutions tailored to the future of Holocaust research, commemoration, and education in the digital age.
360 Degree Judaism: Master’s in Jewish Studies
UHaifa International’s Master’s Program in Jewish Studies incorporates the full spectrum of current and historical Jewish perspectives, including the unique experiences of different Jewish cultures throughout history. It provides students with the versatile research skills needed to analyze and address the core questions of Jewish Studies, specifically those concerning the historic interactions between local and global Jewish cultures.
“Our program offers a balanced and fully-rounded picture of pre-modern Jewish culture, and explores its relevance in larger trends and global events,” explains Dr. Micha Perry, the Program’s Head. “We’re a good fit for students who are curious about Jewish culture, history, and religion, interested in developing advanced research skills, or looking to pursue a career in academia, education, NGO’s or Jewish community organizations.”
The program offers students opportunities to explore biblical studies, the Dead Sea Scrolls, Judaism and Christianity from ancient to early modern times, Talmud and Midrash, medieval Jewish history, Jewish philosophy, Kabbalah, Hasidism, Jewish mysticism and more.
“Studying in Israel, and especially in Haifa – Israel’s most culturally diverse city- benefits our students by providing a broader perspective on the conveyance of Judaism in a multicultural context,” adds Perry. “That’s why we incorporate many field trips in the program, so that students can experience our unique multicultural history and heritage firsthand.
The Master’s program in Jewish Studies attracts students from all over the world, for a multitude of exciting reasons. Frederik Reforivan Baziduhu Zaluchu for example, Uhaifa International’s first graduate from Indonesia, chose this study path for professional reasons. “As a youth pastor, I needed to study where the Bible was written and understand its content from a Jewish perspective,” he explains. “The profound knowledge I have learned in the International Jewish studies program has helped me develop my preaching career.”
Besides focusing on the three chronological cohorts of Judaism – Biblical, Antiquity and Medieval to Modern periods, students can also take courses in other international programs such as Israel Studies, Holocaust Studies, Hebrew or Arabic.
From Startup to Nation: Master’s in Israel Studies
While both Holocaust Studies and Jewish Studies programs examine the past, the Master’s program in Israel Studies focuses on in-depth study of the State of Israel, from the beginning of the Zionist movement to present. The program sheds light on the theoretical foundations of the Zionist project, the relationship between Jewish diaspora communities and the modern State of Israel, and the complexities of Israeli society in face of its multicultural character.
“This international program is designed for students who want to understand the Israeli experience in the broader context of 20th century Jewish history, along with the politics and society of the Middle East, including current events”, says the program’s Head, Dr. Asaf Shamis. “It’s ideal for students pursuing careers in journalism, education, diplomacy, tourism, Israeli or Jewish organizations, and other fields that require a broader understanding of Israel, its ongoing challenges, and the Middle East”.
“The MA Program in Israel Studies and the thesis track produced the seeds of my academic and intellectual voice”, says Stephanie Colley, a UHaifa graduate from the USA currently pursuing her PhD in Israel Studies. “My learning experience was dynamic, challenging, thought-provoking, and meaningful”, she adds. “The tools and skills I learned set in motion a deeper desire to be part of a cross-disciplinary field that encompasses many aspects of Israel and Israeli society.”
The study program covers a broad range of topics, including migration, economics, politics, culture, religion, and the ties between Israel and Jewish communities abroad. It explores significant trends in Zionist ideology and how they evolved over time, including relevant criticism and internal debates. Students learn how the Old Jewish Settlement and later, Israeli society, were consolidated through waves of immigration and examine contemporary Israel within the context of modern Jewish and Israeli history.
Like the first two programs, Israel Studies combines classroom studies with field trips to historical and archaeological sites, kibbutzim, archives, historical museums, and meetups with representatives from different sectors of Israeli society. “This allows students to become familiar with Israel’s society, history, landscape, and geography”, concludes Shamis.
Live Your Israel Experience
Situated on the top of Mount Carmel with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, the University of Haifa offers 21 international Masters Programs for students coming from over 90 countries to a diverse and fascinating multicultural experience. All programs are entirely English-taught and can be completed in one year, while students interested in pursuing the thesis track can prolong their studies and pave the way for their PhD. The first University in Israel to align with the global Sustainable Development Goals, UHaifa International has adopted an equal opportunity approach, and offers scholarships and financial aid to eligible students.