Our vision
The Be'er Sheva Spirit
Over the years, the medical school has fostered a unique concept known as the "Spirit of Be'er Sheva," which embodies its strong community-oriented nature and dedication to its students.
As early as the school's second year, the Medical Students' Association (ASRN) was established. In addition to serving as a student union, it became a cornerstone in implementing the school's mission by integrating its goals into students' social activities and community engagement.
The opening statement made by the Dean of the Medical School to the students in July 1974, at the school's inauguration, expressed its unique philosophy: "There will be no 'you' and 'them' in this school—only 'us.'"
From its founding to this day, student involvement in the school has been a core principle, encompassing the design of courses, evaluation of teaching quality, and active participation in both school activities and community engagement.
Nowadays
The medical profession is constantly evolving, and so is medical education worldwide. The Medical School at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev invests significant resources in innovative teaching methods and in equipping its graduates with advanced skills tailored to the realities they will face during their specialization.
Professionalism and expertise are intertwined with the development and cultivation of strong humanistic and ethical values—qualities that define those who practice this profession. We are committed to ensuring that our graduates integrate practically into the fields of research, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
- Extensive training in basic sciences serves as a solid foundation for understanding clinical practice and fostering curiosity and critical thinking as clinician-scientists. Students are encouraged to integrate into research laboratories within the Faculty of Health Sciences and other university faculties from the early stages of their studies.
- Emphasis is placed on developing medical communication skills, humanistic and ethical values, and the integration of body and mind. Practical activities and voluntary academic contributions to the community embody the "Spirit of Be'er Sheva."
- Clinical exposure begins from the very first days at the school, with early-stage skill development leading up to "Physician Assistants" roles during the initial clinical years.
- A unique family-like atmosphere at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev encourages graduates to return as specialists after gaining expertise in hospitals in Israel and worldwide.
- The Medical Students' Association (ASRN) plays a key role in the school's activities and community engagement, providing support for student well-being, housing experiences, and life in a rapidly developing and vibrant city. Senior faculty members offer professional mentorship from the start, guiding students through mentoring programs and year committees.
- Studies take place across five hospitals with extensive experience, offering exposure to diverse populations, high-risk areas, and work with civilians and soldiers in both routine and emergency situations.
- Students are encouraged, funded, and supported in pursuing dual degrees such as MD-MSc, MD-PhD, or MD-MPH through specialized medical tracks.
- Critical thinking is emphasized in an era of information overload. Self-directed learning is promoted through digital course integration, problem-solving in small groups, team-based learning methods, and structured objective clinical examinations.
- And finally—what seems like the end is just the beginning… Guidance for the next steps in the medical journey, including internship, speliaziation selection, and welcoming graduates back as specialists in their fields.
