Program Overview

Department of Jewish Studies

The Department of Jewish Studies offers a comprehensive program that explores the rich history, culture, and literature of the Jewish people. The department is committed to providing students with a deep understanding of Jewish studies, from the ancient to the modern period.

Undergraduate Program

The undergraduate program in Jewish Studies is designed to provide students with a broad knowledge of Jewish history, literature, and culture. The program offers two tracks: Track A (Jewish Studies Major) and Track B (Jewish Studies Major with Advanced Language).

Track A: Jewish Studies Major (563)

• Twelve courses (at least 36 credits)
• Three required courses:
  • Jewish History I: Ancient and Medieval
  • Jewish History II: Modern
  • Research and Writing in Jewish Studies
• Electives (27 credits):
  • At least one elective must be a course in pre-modern Jewish history, literature, or culture
  • At least one elective must be a course in modern Jewish history, literature, or culture

Track B: Jewish Studies Major with Advanced Language (563L)

• Twelve courses (at least 36 credits)
• Three required courses:
  • Jewish History I: Ancient and Medieval
  • Jewish History II: Modern
  • Research and Writing in Jewish Studies
• Proficiency in Hebrew or Yiddish:
  • Hebrew: complete Intermediate Hebrew (563:132) or its equivalent
  • Yiddish: meet with Undergraduate Director to discuss study options
• Electives (21 credits):
  • At least one elective must be a course in pre-modern Jewish history, literature, or culture

Honors Thesis

Qualified students may apply to do an Honors Thesis in Jewish Studies in either Track A or B. The Honors Thesis counts as two electives.

Learning Goals

The learning goals for the Jewish Studies Major (Tracks A and B) are:

1. Conceptualize the development of Jewish culture and history over time and across space.
2. Recognize and analyze a variety of Jewish Studies primary sources, both pre-modern and modern.
3. Apply secondary sources and methodologies appropriately.
4. Demonstrate research skills and competence in textual analysis through guided researching and writing of a research paper.
5. For Track B only: Demonstrate language proficiency in Hebrew or Yiddish.