What are Policy Analysis and Administrative Studies?
The international program in Policy Analysis and Administrative Studies suggests specialization tracks which prepare students to direct policy making and manage public organizations in a changing and uncertain environment where economic, social and political dynamics constantly influence the daily operation of governments.
The program establishes the theoretical foundations for policy analysis and for understanding the operative rationales of public organizations, but its focus is on professional tools to analyze and manage these areas. The program offers advanced tools for: decision making and policy design; analyzing political-economy dynamics both locally and globally; strategic management in complex and uncertain environment; analyzing international policies and challenges related to cyber security, immigration, climate change, financial relations and trade; developing leadership and innovation in public organizations; analyzing the tensions between values such as ethical behavior, procedural justice, accountability and responsibility, economic equality and efficiency. Many of these tools and areas interact with each other and hence the program emphasizes an integrative approach which allows students to choose appropriate means to handle situations from a rich and diverse toolbox.
How long is the program?
This is a one-year (12 month) graduate program taught over three semesters (fall, spring, and summer).
When does the program start? When does it end?
The program start and end dates vary each year according to the Jewish calendar. The academic year begins between mid-October and early November and ends in September. The 2022-2023 program will begin on October 23.2022.
Can Israeli and International students apply to this program?
Yes, this program is open to all students, especially international students looking to experience Israel in an academic setting and Israelis looking for an international learning environment.
Is it mandatory to study language as part of the program?
No, but the International School offers courses during the fall, spring and summer semesters in both Hebrew and Arabic language. We highly recommend to all students to study one or both of the official languages spoken in Israel.
Is there an English-language requirement?
Yes, all candidates, who are not native speakers of English or have not previously studied at an institution of higher education where the language of instruction is English, must submit official TOEFL scores or equivalent as part of the application. The minimum TOEFL score required for admission is: 570 on the paper-based test, 230 on the computer-based test or 89 on the internet-based test.
Do I need to submit all my application materials together?
No, you are able to submit your application materials as soon as they are ready. Applications are processed on a rolling admissions basis; we review and accept applications as the complete application file is received. We will open a file for you and once we receive all of your materials, we will send the complete application to the review committee.
My undergraduate degree is in a discipline outside of the political sciences. Can I still apply?
Yes, but you may be required to take prerequisite courses. If you are fluent in Hebrew, you may take the prerequisite courses at the University of Haifa in the summer semester before beginning the master's program. If not, you may take them at any institution of higher education in your home country.
I am in my last year of my undergraduate studies and expect to graduate in the spring. Can I still apply?
Yes, but your acceptance will be conditional upon completing your undergraduate studies before beginning the program with the minimum required GPA.For graduates of Israeli institutions only,final grades for completed undergraduate courses may be received until the end of the fall semester.