Graduate Degree in Israel Education (GWU/iCenter Partnership)

Graduate Degree in Israel Education

A rigorous academic graduate program offered in partnership between The iCenter and George Washington University (GWU), providing credentialed professional training in Israel education combined with experiential education practice.

Program Structure:

• One-year Graduate Certificate program (required first year)
• Optional second-year Master's Degree program
• Hybrid learning model combining online, in-person, and Israel-based experiences

Geographic Scope: United States, Canada, and Israel; serves professionals from across North America and Israel

Focus Areas:

• Israel studies (academic discipline)
• Experiential Jewish education
• Pedagogical methods for Israel educators
• Content knowledge in Israel studies
• Professional development for Israel educators

Eligibility:

• In-service Jewish professionals with work experience in Israel education
• Professionals working in:
  • Jewish federations
  • Foundations
  • Advocacy and social justice organizations
  • Day and supplementary schools
  • Israel travel programs
  • Experiential education institutions
  • Campus Hillels
  • Other Jewish communal settings
• Admission through rigorous screening process

Program Features:

• Cohort model with 20+ students per cohort
• World-class faculty
• Individualized mentoring in the field
• Hybrid learning (in-person intensives, online seminars, Israel-based experiences)
• Integration of academic study and practical field experience
• Peer cohort support and networking

Program Impact:

• Over 100 Jewish professionals matriculated as of 2022
• Graduates make impact in field both collectively and independently

Funding/Support:

• Program leadership: Erika Vogel, Director of iCenter's Graduate Degree Program
• Partnership: George Washington University and The iCenter

Contact Information:

• Address: P.O. Box 843, Northbrook, IL 60062
• Phone: 847.418.8336
• Email: hello@theicenter.org
• Website: theicenter.org/GW

Application Process

Admission Requirements:

• In-service professional status (active work in Jewish education field)
• Rigorous screening and admissions process
• Demonstrated commitment to Israel education
• Professional experience in relevant field

Program Pathway:

1. Year One: Graduate Certificate Program (required)
   • One-year intensive study
   • Completion required for all students
2. Year Two: Optional Master's Degree
   • Apply after completing certificate year
   • Additional year of study for degree completion

Learning Components:

• Academic coursework in Israel studies discipline
• Experiential education practice and training
• Individualized mentoring
• In-person intensive sessions
• Online seminar participation
• Israel-based learning experiences
• Cohort-based learning and collaboration

Cohort Model:

• 20+ professionals per cohort
• Diverse institutional and geographic representation
• Collaborative learning environment
• Peer mentoring and networking

For More Information:

• Visit: theicenter.org/GW
• Contact: hello@theicenter.org or 847.418.8336