Will Be
will do
and Learn
We travel on weekends to places like Jerusalem, with its huge selection of cultural opportunities, shopping, and food. We also travel to ancient places like Masada, Capernaum, Qumran, Caesarea, and locations like the Dead Sea, the Judean desert, and many more! The food in Israel is varied and very tasty: from plentiful vegetables, lamb, beef, and chicken, to amazing hummus, and fun street food. No one goes hungry!
One does not need to be an archaeologist to go on this trip. A greater understanding of the history and culture of this country is beneficial to students of History, Anthropology, Archaeology, Religion, Political Science, Psychology, and more.
The archaeological techniques benefit any student who wishes to gain a greater understanding of the history, religions, and politics of this region in ancient and modern times.
Students generally need only their excavation wear, gloves and hats, and good working shoes. There is a required field school for various credits form 2 – 4. Under Anthropology or Religion.
The questionnaires need to be turned in by mid-January. We may want to interview you further in person or on the phone. Selections are made by mid-late January and two pre-trip meetings are held to acquaint you with the trip. You should apply for a passport immediately, or verify the expiration date of your existing passport - it should expire no earlier than 6-8 months after the trip begins in June.
For the Provost Grant, one must have a GPA of 3.0.
We suggest the following courses:
- AN 387 - Archaeology of Sacred Sites
- AN 386 - Archaeology of Israel
- Introduction to Judaism, or other basic religion courses
- Western Civilization or related History courses
NEW! The program is now open to Continuing Education students. Note: grants and donor funds do not apply to Continuing Education students.
Education
Students
We are pleased to welcome Continuing Education students to our trip. Continuing Education (CE) students participate in all activities related to the excavation, and the travel on weekends. CE students must register on the Oakland Continuing Education Website. CE students are non-traditional students who wish to further their educational experience without receiving academic credit; however, continuing education credits do apply. Oakland representatives will help you register online at the orientation meeting for the trip; at this time payment will be due.
CE students will attend all pre-trip orientation meetings, and will depart and return with the group. Once you express interest in the trip we will send you specific information for orientation dates and materials that will need to be completed, such as forms and insurance details. A valid United States passport is required for this trip (passports are not organized by Oakland University).
CE students should realize the cost of the trip includes all weekend excursions, fees, and transportation to the sites and locations planned. We do not deviate from the travel plans for individuals once the trip is underway. Any deviations from the program are arranged by the CE traveler and at his or her own risk.
CE students participate in the excavation day, in the field school, but there is no requirement to complete assignments as is required for other Oakland students.
If you're adventurous, want to experience a real "dig" in Israel, and want to see some fascinating sites, all while being fully immersed in the program, then this is a trip for you!
More details can be found in the Study Abroad office, the Office of Continuing Education or by contacting Dr. Michael Pytlik at pytlik@oakland.edu.
