Jewish Studies provides students with a comprehensive understanding of Jewish history, religion, culture, and society. The program emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary research, and cultural literacy, enabling students to explore Jewish texts, traditions, and historical developments in depth. Courses combine the study of Hebrew and Yiddish languages with theology, philosophy, history, literature, and cultural studies. Students engage in research projects, archival studies, and applied learning opportunities, developing analytical and interpretive skills essential for understanding both historical and contemporary Jewish life.
Throughout the program, students cultivate strong research, communication, and analytical skills, which are vital for careers in academia, cultural institutions, and public scholarship. Exposure to interdisciplinary approaches, including history, sociology, theology, and literature, prepares graduates to address complex social, cultural, and religious issues. By fostering independent inquiry, critical analysis, and ethical scholarship, the program equips students to contribute meaningfully to education, cultural preservation, and public engagement within Jewish studies and beyond.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Jewish Studies
- Degree Type: S. Bachelor
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 January 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Theology and Religious Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Jewish Studies
• Introduction to Jewish History and Culture
• Hebrew Language and Literature
• Foundations of Religious Studies
• Academic Writing and Research Methods
Year 2 – Intermediate Studies and Cultural Analysis
• Jewish Philosophy and Theology
• History of Jewish Communities
• Jewish Literature and Media
• Elective Modules in Language, History, or Cultural Studies
Year 3 – Advanced Research and Applied Studies
• Advanced Hebrew and Yiddish
• Fieldwork and Archival Research
• Seminar: Jewish Cultural and Historical Studies
• Comparative Religious Studies
Year 4 – Independent Research and Thesis
• Independent Research Project
• Advanced Studies in Jewish History and Culture
• Public Engagement and Cultural Preservation
• Thesis Preparation and Presentation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in academia, cultural heritage management, education, religious institutions, and research. They can work in universities, museums, libraries, community organizations, and international institutions focused on Jewish studies and cultural preservation. The program equips students with strong research, analytical, and communication skills, enabling them to pursue roles in archival research, education, translation, cultural programming, and public scholarship. Alumni may also pursue postgraduate studies, interdisciplinary research projects, or leadership roles in educational and cultural initiatives, providing versatile and competitive career pathways in both professional and academic contexts.
Why Choose This Program
This program combines linguistic expertise, historical research, and cultural analysis, giving students a comprehensive understanding of Jewish history, religion, and society. Small classes and faculty mentorship provide personalized guidance, fostering skill development, analytical reasoning, and independent research. The curriculum emphasizes ethical scholarship, interdisciplinary learning, and applied methodologies, preparing graduates to address complex questions in history, religion, culture, and society. By engaging with primary texts, historical documents, and cultural practices, students gain the knowledge, tools, and experience necessary for meaningful careers in research, education, public engagement, cultural management, and further academic study.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
