Judaic Studies
An interdisciplinary program exploring the breadth of Jewish culture.
Through our Judaic studies program, students cultivate a deep appreciation of the central role Jewish culture has played and continues to play in the development of human civilization. The program works side by side with the Middle Eastern studies program, in an atmosphere of shared resources, intellectual traditions, and research methodologies.
In our interdisciplinary program, students are exposed to a variety of perspectives on issues of enduring importance and global concern. Our areas of expertise include Hebrew language, the cultural experiences of Sephardic Jews, Jewish philosophy, Israeli film, the history of science in the Middle East, and the Holocaust in global perspective.
Students may choose from a wide selection of introductory and advanced courses in Jewish history, culture, and thought, a full program in Hebrew language and literature, and Yiddish language. They are also encouraged to embark on study abroad opportunities at several universities in Israel.
A degree in Judaic studies is a strong platform for any career that benefits from historical and cultural understanding, critical analysis, effective argumentation, thorough research, and effective writing.
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Continuing and professional education
Benefits list
Travel the World
Study abroad is a wonderful opportunity to enrich your familiarity with Jewish cultures, languages, and societies. Many Judaic studies majors choose to spend one or two semesters abroad. Students have enrolled in programs in Israel, England, and the Czech Republic, among other countries.
Featured faculty
Anne Broadbridge
Director, Middle Eastern Studies Program
Professor, History
Anne Broadbridge is chair of the Department of History, director of the Middle Eastern studies program, and a history professor.
Susan Shapiro
Associate Professor, Judaic Studies
Susan Shapiro is the director of the religious studies certificate program and an associate professor of Judaic studies.
Alon Confino
Professor, History and Judaic Studies
Alon Confino is the director of the Institute for Holocaust, Genocide, and Memory Studies and a professor of history and Judaic studies.
In the news
Judaic and Near Eastern Studies Department Announces Inaugural CBI Lecture on the Holocaust and Contemporary Social Problems
Omer Bartov, Samuel Pisar Professor of Holocaust and Genocide Studies for Brown University, will deliver a lecture on the Holocaust and contemporary issues.
JNE Chair David Mednicoff Discusses Polarization of Israel-Hamas War on College Campuses for The Conversation
David Mednicoff discusses challenges colleges are facing when defending space for free discussion, empathy, and tolerance during the Israel-Hamas war.
JNE Chair David Mednicoff Interviewed by Morning Wave In Busan
David Mednicoff, chair of the Department of Judaic and Near Eastern Studies, was recently interviewed on Morning Wave In Busan.