Birzeit University has been offering courses in the Arabic language and Middle East-related social sciences to students from around the world since 1987.

Through the systematic study of one of the world's central languages, as well as of the various associated cultures, students achieve a high degree of understanding and appreciation of the region and the various issues that have affected its development. This understanding is reinforced both through direct observation, and by interaction between local and international students in a Palestinian environment.

Aside from fulfilling its mission amongst members of the Palestinian community, Birzeit University hopes to make a significant contribution to the development of international understanding, peace and justice.

Drawing upon its inventory of reputable language and social science professors, Birzeit University has produced a comprehensive study program, offering accredited courses of academic quality, together with a series of special guest lecturers and field trips. The Palestine and Arabic Studies program is open to university students and graduates from around the world, and others working in fields related to the Middle East, who wish to gain an in-depth knowledge of the region, its language, and cultures.

The Arabic courses in the program include four levels of Modern Standard Arabic, and three of Colloquial Arabic. The social sciences courses are taught in English, and provide analyses of Arab and Palestinian issues in the disciplines of politics, sociology, literature, and history.

The PAS Program runs concurrently with Birzeit University's regular semesters, and offers PAS students the option of any or all semesters in the academic year-including a six-week intensive course during the summer, and two longer, four-month semesters beginning in Autumn and Spring.

Left: The Qasr Al-Hambra women's hostel in Ramallah for international and Palestinian students. Birzeit University aims to integrate international students into its regular student body. In order to smoothly facilitate this integration, and to overcome cultural differences-which are a necessary component of diversity and understanding--PAS participants are required to participate in an orientation program, and are provided with access to advisors and counsellors.

More information is available via airmail or e-mail from the PAS Coordinator. E-mail PAS at pas-isp@admin.birzeit.edu or visit the PAS website for the online brochure.

International Workcamps

Nearly every summer since 1969, during the month of August, the university has offered international students the opportunity to join Birzeit University students in work on different projects in the Palestinian community. The summer workcamps last for two weeks and offer visitors the chance to visit various parts of Palestine as well as participating in the agricultural, building and landscaping work organised by the Community Work Department in the Student Affairs office.

To join a workcamp, write to the Dean of Student Affairs at the Student Affairs Office at the university address given on our homepage or visit the Student Affairs Office summer workcamps website.