Always interested in new academic programs (especially those overseas), I recently sat down to talk with Dr. Janet F. Alperstein, Director, Office of Academic Affairs, Rothberg International School, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.  Located in Jerusalem, the Rothberg International School has a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, and has been providing global education to students from all over the world for over 50 years!  We'll profile some of the Rothberg International School's academic programs over the next few days - they are extraordinary!

WE:  Please tell us about your Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies program.

JA:  The MA in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies is offered in conjunction with the Department of Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and is aimed at students who wish to study Middle Eastern history and culture with a focus on the modern period. 

WE:  How long has this academic program been running?

JA:  This program has been around for many years. 

WE:  What are your graduates from this program doing?

JA:  Graduates from the IME program are learning, teaching, and working in a range of jobs in Israel, America, and around the world.  Many work in the government, public service, or international relations.

WE:  How do your students get practical experience in this area, while learning?

JA:  Students in the IME major live what they are learning.  Studying in Jerusalem allows students the opportunity to fully appreciate and understand the conflict as it unfolds around them every day. 

WE:  Who are your faculty?

JA:  The faculty hails from the Department of IME at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.  Professors and guest speakers have backgrounds in the field, including former Knesset members, IDF soldiers, and a range of governmental and other service positions.

WE: Is there anything else you'd like to share with us?

JA:  The Anna Sobol Levy Fellowship is a unique opportunity for students studying in this field.  Its purpose is to enhance and strengthen the unique relationship between the United States and Israel by establishing genuine understanding and communication between future military and civilian leaders of the two countries.  Candidates should have studied in the fields of military studies, economic geography, international relations, political science or history and must have career goals in the armed services, diplomatic corps, government, or public service. 

WE: Thanks, Janet!  For more information on the Rothberg International School at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, please see: http://overseas.huji.ac.il

To read our other interviews about academic programs at the Rothberg International School, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, please see:

Community Leadership and Philanthropy Studies

Jewish Education Program