Max Stern Yezreel Valley College: A Hub of Higher Education in Northern Israel
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of the Galilee region, Max Stern Yezreel Valley College stands as a vital center for academic excellence. Located in the Jezreel Valley between the cities of Afula and Nazareth, the college provides accessible, high-quality higher education to thousands of students in the northern part of Israel.
The institution is strategically positioned near the communities of Kfar Gid'on, Tel Adashim, and Mizra, creating a campus environment that blends academic rigor with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

Key Facts
- Established: 1965
- Type: Public Academic College
- Location: Jezreel Valley, Israel
- Student Population: 4,038 total students
- Accreditation: Independent degree-granting institution since 1994
- Motto: The Academy of the North
History and Evolution
The college began its journey in 1965, originally founded as Emek Yezreel College. For over two decades, from 1973 to 1994, it operated as a regional branch of the University of Haifa, integrating its curriculum with the standards of one of Israel's major universities.
A significant turning point occurred in 1994 when the Israel Council for Higher Education—the national body responsible for maintaining standards in tertiary education—granted the college accreditation as an independent academic institution. This milestone empowered the college to grant its own bachelor's degrees.
The institution is named in honor of Max Stern. The naming followed a generous monetary gift provided by his son, Leonard N. Stern, following Max Stern's passing.
Academic Offerings and Campus Life
Today, the college serves a diverse student body, with a strong emphasis on undergraduate education. The institution currently hosts 3,702 undergraduate students and 336 postgraduate students, supported by a dedicated faculty of 100 academic professionals.
Fields of Study
Max Stern Yezreel Valley College offers Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees across a wide spectrum of disciplines designed to meet the needs of the modern workforce. These include:
- Behavioral and Social Sciences: Studying human interaction and societal structures.
- Economics and Health Administration: Focusing on financial systems and the management of healthcare services.
- Communication Studies: Exploring the dynamics of information exchange.
- Human Services and Nursing Studies: Preparing students for critical roles in healthcare and social support.
- General Studies: Providing a broad foundation of academic knowledge.
Institutional Overview
The following table provides a snapshot of the college's current leadership and demographics.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Chairman | Theodor Or |
| President | Prof. Itzhak Harpaz |
| Dean | Dr. Michal Mann |
| Total Students | 4,038 |
| Faculty Size | 100 |
| Coordinates | 32°39′4.22″N 35°17′36.65″E |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Max Stern Yezreel Valley College located?
The college is located in the Jezreel Valley within the Galilee region of Israel, situated between Afula and Nazareth, and adjacent to Kfar Gid'on, Tel Adashim, and Mizra.
When did the college become an independent institution?
The college received accreditation as an independent academic institution capable of granting bachelor's degrees from the Israel Council for Higher Education in 1994.
What degrees are offered at the college?
The college primarily offers BA degrees in fields such as Economics, Behavioral Sciences, Social Sciences, Communication Studies, Human Services, Health Administration, Nursing Studies, and General Studies.
Who is the college named after?
The college is named after Max Stern, following a donation made by his son, Leonard N. Stern.
How many students are currently enrolled?
The college has a total of 4,038 students, consisting of 3,702 undergraduates and 336 postgraduates.