Jerusalem Studies Program

Imagine waking up on the first day of class, pulling back the curtains in front of your window, and staring out at the most significant city in Christian history: Jerusalem.

At Southeastern University, we make that vision a reality.

Our Jerusalem Studies program allows you to walk where Jesus walked, studying Biblical history and Middle Eastern culture in a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility in the heart of West Jerusalem. It is open to all Southeastern students and required for College of Christian Ministries & Religion majors. You will earn 15 hours of credit during the semester, which includes five weeks of field study and nine hours of class credit in the Holy Land and six hours of online course work at home. You will not take classes on campus during your semester in the program, which is offered during the fall, spring and summer terms.

The three courses you will take in Israel are:

Historical Geography and Archaeology of Israel - By visiting archaeological sites, participating in an actual dig and practicing cartography, you will learn about the historical periods of Israel. You'll also learn how the borders of Israel changed as other powers controlled the region from the time the Israelites conquered the region until their return from exile in Babylon.

Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes - In this course, you will link Jesus' ministry in the Bible to the places where he worked in the Holy Land. You will travel to some of the key places in Israel where Jesus ministered, including Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Galilee.

Ministry in Intercultural Context - By studying the unique mix of cultures and peoples in Israel, you will gain an understanding of the challenges related to ministry in an intercultural setting. You will interact with orthodox Jews, Muslims, and Jewish Christians in both formal ministry settings and everyday settings.

Students who have participated in the program call it a life-changing experience. It has expanded their understanding of God's Word, changed their perceptions of other cultures, and given them the chance to build relationships with the people of Israel. Those who have entered the ministry say it has enabled them to more effectively preach the Gospel. It has also expanded their own knowledge of the history and physical characteristics of the places Jesus ministered, strengthening their faith.

The program only costs about $2,800 more than a typical 15-hour semester on campus in Lakeland. The cost covers all travel expenses, lodging fees (including an on-site chef and security) and all excursions in the Holy Land, as well as tuition. Lodging and meals are provided at our George O. Wood Center, which was completed in 2009 and is within walking distance of the Temple Mount, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Eastern Gate and the City of David, allowing you convenient access to some of the most significant sites in the Bible.

If you're ready for your life to be forever altered and for your faith to come alive, start making plans to participate in the Jerusalem Studies program. For more information on the program, click here.