The Brandeis University/Middlebury Program in Israel is located in Beer Sheva, on the campus of Ben-Gurion University, a university known for its vibrant student life. The city of Beer Sheva, in the heart of the Negev desert in southern Israel, is one of the world’s oldest cities, dating back 6,000 years. Its inhabitants have ranged from nomads and Romans to Ottomans to its present mixed population that is the result of decades of modern development.
The Brandeis University/Middlebury Program in Israel is the first and only full Hebrew language immersion program in Israel. In addition to Hebrew instruction and content-courses, students have various internship or volunteer opportunities from which to choose. The program location at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev provides an effective and authentic immersion experience.
The BGU campus – known for its strong and active Student Union – offers regular activities such as performances at the Student’s House, shows, day trips, and various cultural events. BGU is popular with Israeli students because of its vibrant campus life. Connected to the local community through various social programs, Ben-Gurion University serves as a bridge to the local community and it actively supports and facilitates the students’ connection and integration in the local community.
While Beer Sheva is a rapidly developing city, it is not subject to throngs of tourists, as are Tel Aviv and Jerusalem and it is highly unlikely that you will hear any English spoken in the city. The Brandeis University/Middlebury Program in Israel offers academic rigor, cultural engagement, and freedom to explore in an authentic Israeli city recently branded as “Israel’s Opportunities Capital”.