Jewish Studies

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem offers a comprehensive Jewish Studies program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of Jewish history, culture, religion, language, and thought. This program aims to foster a multidisciplinary perspective, combining historical, literary, religious, and cultural approaches to explore the rich and complex heritage of the Jewish people. Students will engage with a diverse array of courses that cover biblical studies, rabbinic literature, Jewish philosophy, modern Jewish history, Hebrew language, and contemporary issues facing Jewish communities around the world. The curriculum is structured to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep appreciation for the intellectual and cultural contributions of Jews throughout history and in contemporary societies. The program also encourages students to explore the intersection of Jewish identity with other cultural and social identities, preparing graduates for careers in academia, education, public service, cultural organizations, and international relations. With access to world-renowned scholars, extensive archives, and a vibrant academic community, students have the opportunity to participate in seminars, research projects, and study visits that enhance their learning experience. The program emphasizes linguistic proficiency in Hebrew and other relevant languages, ensuring students can engage with primary texts and sources effectively. Graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze and interpret Jewish texts, history, and cultural phenomena, making them valuable contributors to fields such as education, archival work, religious leadership, or further academic research. Whether students are interested in pursuing a career related to Jewish heritage, religious studies, or cultural diplomacy, this program provides a solid foundation rooted in rigorous academic inquiry and a passionate engagement with Jewish life and thought.

Course List Sample: 

Required Courses 

·         Approaching Classical Jewish Texts: Ancient until Modern Times 

 Elective Courses (sample courses) 

• The Rabbinic World View 
• Trends in Medieval Kabbalah 
• The Secrets of Maimonides’ Guide of the Perplexed 
• Eschatology in the Late Second Temple Period: Qumran, Nascent Christianity and   Beyond 
• Crisis and Identity: Jewish Intellectuals in the Modern World         
• Jerusalem in History, Art and Literature: Between Imagination and Reality 
• The Origin of Modern Jewish Studies 
• Einstein's Question: The Holocaust in History, Trauma and Culture 
• Jews under the Habsburg Double Eagle 
• Transformation of German Jewry

Religious Studies Courses 

•  Current Trends in the Study of Religion

• Issues in the Study of Judaism in the Second Temple Period

• Jerusalem and the Temple in Early Christian and Jewish Literature

• Eschatology in Late Second Temple Period: Qumran, Nascent Christianity and   Beyond

• Religion and Politics in Comparative Perspective

Students are encouraged to study an additional ancient language. Students who opt to do so will be able, in consultation with their advisor, to reduce the above credit load. 

Qualified students with a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education are eligible for admission to the program. Admission is competitive and based on transcripts and letters of recommendation. Students must have:

• at least a 3.2 ("B") grade-point average 
• a relevant background in Jewish studies 
• be prepared to enroll in at least level Gimel Hebrew at the beginning of their first semester of study. Students who have minimal or no knowledge of Hebrew (levels Aleph-Bet) will be required to attend the Summer Ulpan prior to their first and second year of the program. 

Knowledge of English: Applicants are required to submit official TOEFL, IELTS, or Amir scores. The minimum TOEFL score required is 89 on the internet-based test.  The minimum IELTS score is 7. The minimum Amir score is 220. 

Exempted from this requirement are applicants who have completed a full degree (a minimum of four years) taught solely in English at a recognized institution of higher education. Applicants who have completed a B.A. in English Language and Literature may request an exemption provided that they submit documentation from their university stating that the language of instruction is English. 

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem offers various funding options for students pursuing Jewish Studies programs. Scholarships are available for outstanding students based on academic merit, financial need, and leadership qualities. These scholarships may cover partial or full tuition fees and sometimes include stipends for living expenses. Students are encouraged to apply for those scholarships early, as competition is intense, and application deadlines are strict. The university also provides fellowships and grants to support research projects, especially for graduate students engaged in advanced studies or independent research within Jewish Studies. Additionally, students can explore external funding sources, such as governmental grants, private foundations, and Jewish community organizations, which sometimes partner with the university to promote Jewish academic programs. Work-study opportunities may be available in university offices or research centers, allowing students to earn income while gaining valuable experience related to their field of study. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is committed to making Jewish Studies accessible to qualified students from diverse backgrounds, and as such, it maintains a comprehensive financial aid policy designed to assist students in managing tuition and associated costs. Prospective students are advised to consult the university's official financial aid office for detailed information about application procedures, eligibility criteria, and deadlines. Overall, while specific financing studies options for the Jewish Studies program are tailored to individual circumstances and may vary each academic year, the university’s broad range of scholarships, fellowships, and external funding opportunities provides a robust support network for students pursuing Jewish Studies.

Jewish Studies at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of Jewish history, culture, religion, and language. The Department of Jewish Philosophy and the Department of Hebrew Language and Literature collaborate to provide a rich academic environment that integrates traditional Jewish texts with modern scholarly approaches. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including biblical studies, Talmudic law and literature, Jewish philosophy, modern Jewish history, and Hebrew language proficiency. Students have the opportunity to engage in supervised research, participate in seminars, and attend lectures by renowned scholars in the field. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, education, cultural preservation, religious leadership, or related fields. Students can also benefit from the university's extensive resources, such as its libraries, archives, and study centers dedicated to Jewish studies and Middle Eastern history. The program is suitable for those interested in deepening their understanding of Jewish heritage and traditions, as well as for those looking to explore the cultural and historical dimensions of Judaism through a critical and scholarly lens. The Hebrew University’s location in Jerusalem offers unique opportunities for experiential learning, including visits to archaeological sites, museums, and religious communities, enriching students’ educational experience. The Jewish Studies program at Hebrew University is internationally recognized for its academic excellence and contributions to Jewish scholarship. Graduates of the program often continue their studies at advanced levels, pursue careers in Jewish education, or become experts in Jewish cultural affairs, contributing significantly to academic, cultural, and religious communities worldwide.