ORT Braude Exchange

The College offers a unique and innovative English-language study abroad program at the ORT Braude College in Karmiel, Israel, designed especially for University of Rochester students of science and engineering. The program specifically meets the needs of students contemplating majors in chemical, electrical and mechanical engineering, or computer science.

Karmiel, founded in 1964, in one of the most beautiful regions in the country, is the commercial, educational, cultural and industrial hub of the Galilee. Situated on a major east-west highway in a valley, separating the upper and lower regions of the Galilee, its location is central with respect to the major population centers of Northern Israel. A community of more than 40,000, Karmiel is a planned modern city consisting of self-contained neighborhoods. It is the home of ORT Braude College and the Nerken Performing Arts Cultural Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: For whom is the program designed?
A: Sophomores considering majoring in chemical, mechanical, electrical and computer engineering, and computer sciences. Some juniors (for example, Take Five Scholars) may be eligible and should see Lisa Norwood in Lattimore 306-A.
Q: What courses will I take?
A: The same science and engineering course that you would take back at University of Rochester, so you will stay on track. Course offerings may include:
  • MTH163 Differential Equations
  • CHE 243 or ME 225 Fluid Dynamics
  • CHE 244 Heat and Mass Transfer
  • EE 212 Systems
  • ME 123 Thermodynamics
  • ME 226 Introduction to Solid Mechanics
  • CHE elective (Waste Water Management Processes)
  • A computer elective
Q: When will it take place?
A: This is a spring-only program. Approximate dates are March 1 through July 5, with a one-week break during the Israeli Passover vacation.
Q: Do I need to know any Hebrew?
A: No. Your courses will all be in English. You will have the opportunity to learn Hebrew on the program, and to take Introduction to the History and Archaeology of the Galilee as well.
Q: Where will I live, and what is student life like?
A: Students live in the ORT Braude residence halls, which are located on the beautiful 150-acre campus. There is an inexpensive cafeteria, sports facilities, extracurricular activities, and many social functions. Each Rochester student will have a local student mentor.
Q: How do I apply?
A: First, see any one of the following people who will have detailed information about classes, and the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of the students currently visiting from ORT Braude:
Second, attend a Study Abroad General Information meeting if you have not already done so. Schedules are available at the Center for Study Abroad and Interdepartmental Programs, Lattimore 206. Then make an appointment with a study abroad advisor.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: Submit the "Proposal for Enrollment in a Study Abroad Program" by September 15th.
Q: What will it cost?
A: You will be billed for University of Rochester tuition. Board, airfare, and personal expenses are not covered by this fee. Students who receive financial aid benefits from the University of Rochester will be able to use their aid towards the total cost of the program. Estimated semester costs in addition to tuition: Board, $1400; airfare, $1200; personal miscellaneous expenses, $800.
Q: Where do I send my application?
A: Bring it to the Center for Study Abroad and Interdepartmental Programs in Lattimore 206. Mark all correspondence ATTN: ORT Braude.
Q: What do I need to apply?
A: A completed application consists of:
  • A completed application.
  • A professor's recommendation, written on his or her departmental letterhead, and sent directly to the Center for Study Abroad and Interdepartmental Programs by October 15.
  • An essay (typed or word-processed, spell-checked and proofread) in which you explain your academic reasons for wishing to attend ORT Braude College.
  • A official transcript from the Registrar's Office sent directly to the Center for Study Abroad and Interdepartmental Programs, Lattimore 206, and marked ATTN: ORT Braude. (Allow one week for processing.)

If you are admitted to the exhance program, you will be notified by ORT Braude College, which will then send you detailed orientation materials.

If you are accepted, you are required to attend the Study Abroad pre-departure meeting in October and succesfully complete the Blackboard orientation course. Check at Lattimore 206 for the dates of those meetings. Important topics such as transfer credits, grades, Residential Life contracts, term bills, financial aid and life abroad will be discussed.

Questions about the program should be addressed to: The Center for Study Abroad, Lattimore 206, abroad@admin.rochester.edu

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