Israel: Israel Then and Now: Archaeology, Transformation and Comparative Cultures

Summer Session I — 2013

This fascinating four-week six-credit program examines the ancient past through the current events of Israel in the context of the Middle East. The program begins with an exploration of the ancient history of the region through visits to archaeological sites and museums, guided by Professor Arthur Bankoff, chair of the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology. You will learn the archaeology of Israel in the context of the Near East, covering the Paleolithic through the Ottoman period of history. Participants will move into the second part of the program where they will examine the multiple dimensions of contemporary Israeli society and culture, placing Israel in a comparative global perspective. Using conceptual and analytical tools of anthropology, students will explore the implications of immigration, diversity, political systems, religion, Zionism, the Jewish Diaspora, Arab-Israel conflict, the kibbutz and global culture on modern Israel. This part of the program is taught by Professor Mervin Verbit. Guest speakers will bring different points of view to bear on the class topics. Students will live in guesthouses while traveling, and in Hebrew University dormitories while in Jerusalem.

This program is open to undergraduate and graduate students, all majors.

Program Dates

June 16 – July 13

Program Fee

$3,964 (includes international airfare, health/travel insurance, program-related transportation in Israel, Hebrew University special programs fee, housing and some meals)

Additional Costs

$360, plus Brooklyn College tuition. Non-tuition out-of-pocket costs include estimated costs for personal expenses, additional program travel and out-of-pocket meals.

Courses and Credits

Participants will register for ANTH 3015, and either ANTH 3530 or CORC 3208, for a total of six credits:

ANTH 3015: Anthropology Abroad: Archaeology in Biblical Lands

AND

ANTH 3530: The Middle East and North Africa (students who do not need a Core course may register for this concurrent course)

CORC 3208: Comparative Studies in Cultures and Transformation

Financial Aid / Scholarships

Financial aid does apply, and alternative loans are available. Scholarships that apply to this program are: SASA, Gilman, Furman and STOCS, among others. (See the Scholarship listing on the IEGE website.)

How to Apply

Complete and submit the IEGE Notification of Study Abroad/Brooklyn College Study Abroad Application (pdf) and submit it via e-mail to the International Education and Global Engagement office, or in person at the IEGE office, 1108 Boylan Hall.
Contact the program director to express your interest.