Israel Program

The University recommends that qualified students complete part of their studies in the Holy Land. Living and studying in the land where biblical events actually took place inevitably deepens the students' understanding of the Scriptures and increases their ability to communicate its message. Living abroad also increases one's cultural awareness and sensitivity to world events. To facilitate such a learning and living experience, the University has an affiliation with the Jerusalem University College in Jerusalem.

Located on Mt. Zion, the Jerusalem University College provides a unique setting for study. Its faculty strive to cultivate an enriched understanding of the Christian faith through a firsthand encounter with the land that includes language, history and culture. All courses at Jerusalem University College are taught in English. The curriculum offerings are in the areas of biblical studies, archaeology, language, history and sociology. Although students are not on the Langhorne campus while at Jerusalem University College, they are, nevertheless, fully matriculated PBU students.

Qualifications

Four- and five-year students with a grade point average of 2.5 or above may spend one or two semesters of their third year at Jerusalem University College. Two-year students, similarly qualified, may go for one semester of their second year.

Credit

The amount of credit taken at Jerusalem University College appears on the student's transcript. The number of credits students receive toward graduation depends upon their professional program and the total number of credits completed in Israel. Grades and resultant grade points received from Jerusalem University College are included in the student's grade point average. Since Jerusalem University College's classes are not identical with those offered by the University, credit is granted for selected biblical, general education or professional courses required in the student's curriculum, regardless of which courses the student takes in Israel.

Financial Aid

Financial aid in the form of state and federal grants and student loans can be used toward study at Jerusalem University College. However, PBU-based aid does not transfer. Two scholarships in the name of Harold S. Neal are awarded annually to students who study in Israel. Application for these scholarships is made to the chair of the Division of Biblical Education. A limited number of scholarships, including work study, are available through Jerusalem University College.

Application

Students interested in studying in Israel should first complete an Israel program application available in the registrar's office. Students must also complete undergraduate application procedures through Jerusalem University College. This may be done by contacting Jerusalem University College, 4249 E. State Street, Suite 203, Rockford, IL 61108 or calling 800.891-9408, Fax- 815.229.5901.

(Return to top of Page)