The Ludwig and Erica Jesselson Institute for Advanced Torah Studies and the Midrasha for Women are unique institutions, dedicated to a synthesis of Torah and academic study. The Institute and the Midrasha (college) provide an opportunity for young men and women from Israel and the Diaspora to undertake a rigorous double schedule of studies traditional Talmudic and Judaic Studies combined with full-degree programs. These programs provide a viable alternative for the student who would otherwise face the dilemma of either forsaking an organized program of yeshiva learning while pursuing academic studies, or forgoing academic goals for intensive studies in Judaism. Today, more than 800 students study at Bar-Ilan through the Institute and the Midrasha.