From Dr. Selma Botman Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

As the flagship Jewish university, we constantly look for ways to bring our core Torah values to life and to offer our students unique opportunities to learn together through innovative programming and experiences. Over the past few years, we have created new opportunities for our students to further explore their connection with Israel through winter trips, internships with Israeli startups, alumni networking and mentoring initiatives, and summer experiences. As part of our commitment to Torat Tziyon, we are excited to announce several pilot academic programs in Israel for qualifying undergraduate and graduate students, beginning Fall 2022, along with expanded Torat Tziyon summer programs. These pilot programs will continue to strengthen our connections with Israel by providing students - especially those interested in pursuing careers in Israel or making aliyah - the full YU experience while spending some time in Israel. These new programs will further enhance our students’ ability to build and refine core leadership and market-ready skills, while working closely with our faculty, staff and alumni. With top-notch live classes for our undergraduate students, well-rounded Torah learning, and social activities, these pilot programs will cultivate growth for students in areas like leadership training, YU alumni networking and preparation for full-time employment or further study, all while studying in Jerusalem. This Fall and next Spring, participating students will be able to earn credits toward their YU degrees, while enjoying a unique and exciting student experience, and only a bus ride away from the Kotel.

Torat Tziyon Undergraduate Pilot Program

The undergraduate pilot program will be open to Sy Syms juniors and seniors who have completed at least two semesters at our New York City campus and are not considered residents of Israel. Participating students will conduct their YU academic studies in Israel, with separate classes for men and women, and will also join a vibrant Beit Midrash program with exceptional Torah personalities. Participants will have access to a wealth of student life activities, tiyulim and Shabbat programming. Students will have the opportunity to meet with thought – and business – leaders who are transforming the way we live, learn and work. While this undergraduate pilot program will currently allow only Sy Syms students to participate, we are exploring options for Yeshiva College and Stern College for Women students in the future.

Torat Tziyon Graduate Pilot Program

For graduate school students who wish to enroll in YU’s online Master’s programs while continuing their Torah learning and living in Israel, an Israel pilot program will launch in Fall 2022. The graduate program will be open to alumni of YU undergraduate programs who are beginning their YU online graduate studies in Fall 2022 or Spring 2023 and are not considered residents of Israel. This program will include Shabbat programs, Torah studies, housing and vibrant student experiences.

Torat Tziyon Summer Experience

Students enrolled in all YU undergraduate programs will be able to apply to participate in a growing number of summer experiences in Israel. From the YU Israel Summer Internships that debuted this past summer, to the long-time Bar Ilan summer program, Counterpoint Israel and archaeological fieldwork, participating students will have incredible summer experiences designed to transform their future with opportunities to work, volunteer and learn in Israel. In the coming weeks, we will be sharing more information about these programs at yu.edu/Torat-Tziyon. These program concepts remain under development and are subject to change and/or required approvals. If you have specific questions about the programs, please contact ToratTziyon@yu.edu