Jewish Studies

Jewish Studies at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of Jewish history, culture, religion, and literature, providing students with a multidisciplinary understanding of this rich and diverse heritage. The programme is designed for students interested in engaging critically with the historical development of Jewish communities, their religious practices, language, and contributions to broader societal contexts. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research, students examine topics such as biblical texts, rabbinic literature, Jewish philosophy, and contemporary issues facing Jewish communities worldwide. The programme also emphasizes the study of Hebrew and other Jewish languages, equipping students with essential linguistic skills to analyze primary sources effectively.

Situated within a vibrant academic environment, Jewish Studies benefits from close collaboration with various faculties, including Theology and Religion, Oriental Studies, and Modern Languages. This interdisciplinary approach enables students to appreciate the complex interactions between religion, culture, politics, and society in shaping Jewish history and identity. The programme offers opportunities for both taught courses and research projects, often involving distinguished faculty members and visiting scholars with expertise spanning archaeology, history, religious studies, and literature.

Graduates of the Jewish Studies programme develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills that prepare them for careers in academia, education, cultural institutions, journalism, public policy, and beyond. The programme also provides a solid foundation for further postgraduate study, including MPhil and DPhil research. With its academic rigor, diverse course options, and the chance to participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences, the programme aims to foster an intellectually stimulating environment where students can deepen their understanding of Jewish history and culture while engaging with ongoing scholarly debates. The University of Oxford's Jewish Studies programme is ideal for students committed to exploring one of the world's most historically and culturally significant traditions in a global context.

The MSt in Jewish Studies is a taught master’s course, designed to teach the methods, sources and languages required for more specialised research within Jewish Studies.

You will be required to complete three terms of language study in the same language. You may choose to study either Modern Hebrew or Biblical Hebrew or Yiddish at elementary, intermediate or advanced level.

In addition, you will be required to select courses from a range of options each year and, depending on the track you choose, a dissertation of up to 15,000 words. Teaching for the options takes place during the first two terms of the academic year. These options, which vary from year to year, must be selected from those on offer. Most options are assessed by two pre-submitted essays to be handed in at the end of the vacation following the term in which they were taught, though for certain courses there is a three-hour examination at the end of the third term instead. The language studied will also be assessed in a three hour examination at the end of Trinity term (summer term).

The degree course is intensive and is based on small classes, seminars, tutorials and close faculty-student contact.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in any subject. Previous knowledge of Jewish studies is not a requirement for admission.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose/personal statement: Up to three pages
• Written work:Two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

• Global Education
• Hill Foundation Scholarships
• Ertegun Scholarship Programme

The University of Oxford offers a comprehensive program in Jewish Studies that explores the historical, religious, cultural, and linguistic aspects of Jewish civilization. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of Jewish history from its origins to the contemporary period, as well as an appreciation of the diversity of Jewish cultures across different regions and epochs. The curriculum typically includes courses on Jewish history, literature, religious texts, philosophy, and modern Jewish issues, often incorporating primary source analysis and critical engagement with scholarly debates. Students have the opportunity to study Hebrew and other Jewish languages, enabling them to engage directly with original texts. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, drawing from history, theology, anthropology, and cultural studies to offer a well-rounded perspective on Jewish life and thought.

At Oxford, Jewish Studies students benefit from access to world-renowned faculty with expertise in various areas of Jewish history, religious studies, and linguistics. The program often involves lectures, seminars, and research projects that encourage analytical thinking and independent scholarship. Students may have opportunities for field visits, engagement with Jewish communities, and participation in conferences and events related to Jewish culture and history. Oxford’s libraries, including the Bodleian Library, hold extensive collections of Jewish manuscripts, texts, and archival materials that support research and learning.

The program aims to prepare students for careers in academia, education, cultural preservation, journalism, and public policy, among other fields. Graduates gain critical skills in research, textual analysis, and intercultural understanding. The program fosters a global perspective on Jewish history and culture and encourages students to consider contemporary challenges faced by Jewish communities worldwide. Overall, the Jewish Studies program at Oxford offers rigorous intellectual training in a vibrant academic environment, with access to resources and expertise that are unmatched globally.