The Only Catholic University in the Holy Land
In 1964, Pope Paul VI visited the Holy Land. In his desire to support the Palestinian people, Bethlehem University was established in 1973 as a joint venture between the Vatican and the De La Salle (Christian) Brothers. From humble beginnings with just three Brothers, a small group of Palestinian educators, and 112 students, Bethlehem University became the first registered university in Palestine. 21,614 men and women have graduated from Bethlehem University since its founding, and today it remains the only Catholic University in the Holy Land.
Bethlehem University provides modern and effective learning resources to enable all staff and students to pursue their academic activities in accordance with its vision, mission, and values. The University intentionally fosters interfaith knowledge and exploration, giving students inter-faith competency and building their capacity to respect all life. Twenty-nine percent of students study Nursing and Health Sciences, 19% Business Administration, and 17% The Arts (Arabic Language and Literature, English Language and Literature, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Religious Studies).
2026 Spring Reception in New York City
Education Changes the Path
Join us for an evening celebrating how your support transform lives, and how you can open pathways for the next generation of Palestinian students.
Learn More . . .
Save the Date
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
6:00-8:00 pm
The Metropolitan Club
One East 60th Street
New York, NY 10022
Honoring
Most Reverend Gregory John Mansour
Bishop of the Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn
with the
Archbishop Pietro Sambi “Star of Bethlehem” Award
2026 Spring Appeal
This Spring, the people of the Holy Land—and Bethlehem University—face profound financial and human challenges.
As Br. Hernan, Vice Chancellor of Bethlehem University, recently shared:
“In a time of war, Bethlehem University remains a sign of hope—a place of learning and a vital Christian presence in the Holy Land, serving both Muslim and Christian communities in Palestine. We know we do not carry this mission alone, and we are deeply grateful for your prayers and support.”
Through the generosity of supporters across the United States, the Bethlehem University Foundation is a primary resource to sustain this vital mission of education, opportunity, and hope.
In this critical moment, we invite you to stand with the students and families of Bethlehem University through your prayers and your generosity. Learn More . . .
The Shepherd’s Circle for Monthly Giving
Just $1 a Day = 1 Student’s Tuition for 1 Month
Will you join the Shepherd’s Circle for convenient and secure monthly giving that provides students with support to fund their education that will last a lifetime?
Help us reach our goal of 100 people donating $1 dollar a day for Bethlehem University. That’s an extra $36,500 a year!
Together we are powerful. Learn More . . .
In the News
The Rewards of Hard Work
June 2, 2026
Celebrating Student Success Bethlehem University recently celebrated academic achievement during a special ceremony honoring the University’s highest-performing students. Faculty, staff, family members, and fellow students gathered to recognize those whose dedication and hard work distinguished them during the Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 semesters. The event honored students who earned first and second place within…
Engineering Tomorrow
June 2, 2026
Students Apply Knowledge to Real Challenges Students from Bethlehem University’s Technology Department recently displayed their creativity and technical expertise during a Student Projects Exhibition in Sansur Hall. Featuring work from second- and third-year students in the Software Engineering and Computer Simulation in Sciences and Engineering programs, the exhibition highlighted how classroom learning is transformed into…
Student Innovation Showcased
May 19, 2026
Software Engineering Graduate Projects Take Center Stage At Bethlehem University’s Sixth Software Engineering Graduation Projects Exhibition, graduating students demonstrated how technology can address real challenges facing individuals, businesses, and communities. The twelve projects showcased innovative applications of artificial intelligence, computer vision, natural language processing, and smart systems while reflecting the creativity and technical expertise developed…
Preparing Future Educators
May 19, 2026
The Impact of War and Resilience on Child Development At Bethlehem University, students in the Faculty of Education are exploring child development not only through textbooks and theory, but also through the realities shaping the lives of children in Palestine today. As part of the course Development and Growth of Children, taught by Ms. Sabah…
Learning Through Discovery
May 19, 2026
Interactive Learning Days Connect Education, Nature, and Community More than 240 Bethlehem University students from the Faculty of Education recently partnered with the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) to create an unforgettable learning experience for approximately 350 children from eight schools across the Bethlehem area. As part of a series of Interactive Learning…
Learning Through Accompaniment
May 5, 2026
Students Apply Communication and Media Skills in Service Students in “Creative Communications and Campaigns” at Bethlehem University recently stepped beyond the classroom and into relationship—with women entrepreneurs whose work reflects resilience, creativity, and hope. In a gathering shaped by listening and exchange, students met with women connected to Ibtikar, many of whom traveled from refugee…
Bethlehem University FAQs
Do you have questions about BU? Can you spot it on a map? Do you wonder how the occupation impacts students, faculty, and staff.
These answers and more are found on our FAQ page. Learn More . . .
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“You can perform miracles by touching the hearts of those entrusted to your care”