Reichman University Founder Defends Private Model, High Tuition

Professor Uriel Reichman, founder and chairman of Reichman University (formerly the Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya), has defended his institution's private model and high tuition fees, asserting that it has proven successful and even surpasses public academia. Established 32 years ago with minimal resources and facing initial skepticism, the university now boasts schools of law, computer science, psychology, economics, and medicine.

Reichman addressed concerns about accessibility, acknowledging that tuition ranges from NIS 50,000 to NIS 100,000 annually, but highlighted that the university provides significant financial aid, with up to 50% scholarships for some students and priority given to elite unit veterans and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. He stated the university operates on a non-profit basis, with all proceeds reinvested into its development and that he personally receives no salary.

He also defended the academic standards, noting that Reichman University maintains rigorous admission requirements and has faced opposition from the "university cartel" that he claims tried to hinder its accreditation. Reichman pointed to strong performance in bar association exams and leading results in accounting and entrepreneurship, citing the university's high number of startups and unicorns.

The university's new medical school, the first private program of its kind in Israel, charges nearly NIS 100,000 per year, but Reichman stated that demand is high, with students willing to pay comparable or higher fees abroad. He criticized the government for not providing the same level of funding to Reichman University students as it does to those in public institutions or Israelis studying medicine abroad, arguing for equitable treatment.

Looking ahead, Reichman believes academia must adapt to the AI revolution, emphasizing its role in developing human capital and fostering entrepreneurship. He also expressed strong opposition to the government's judicial overhaul, calling it a disaster, and reiterated his long-standing commitment to establishing a constitution for Israel.