Because the institute is limited by space restrictions, and because the program is relatively new, there are only approximately forty students each semester. Learning with such a small and intimate group is markedly different than a large university environment. The intimacy of the group contributes positively to the learning experience. The classes offered take full advantage of the geographical location of the institute and of the professional expertise in the region. Students can take classes in coral reef ecology taught by researchers at the Inter-University Institute, a research facility located on the Red Sea in the port city of Eilat.
Students can also take desert ecology, using the surroundings as a classroom.
Also offered are sustainable agriculture, ornithology, and environmental policy, all taught by professors with years of hands-on experience in their respective fields. Classes at the Arava institute are taught for the most part in a conventional lecture format. Due to the number of students on the program class size was small and discussion and debate were integral parts of class. Some classes utilized the surrounding geography to supplement the class material. The coral reef ecology class incorporated a series of snorkeling exercises into the curriculum.