Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures - Hebrew and Judaica Studies
The Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures: Hebrew and Judaica Studies Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the Hebrew language, Jewish culture, history, and religious traditions. The curriculum integrates language studies, literature, history, cultural analysis, and research methodology, enabling students to read, interpret, and analyze Hebrew texts, explore Jewish cultural heritage, and understand historical and contemporary social contexts. Students engage in language immersion, textual analysis, and applied research projects, cultivating linguistic proficiency, analytical skills, and critical reasoning essential for professional or academic careers in language studies, cultural research, education, or international relations.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, workshops, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in Hebrew language, Judaica studies, and Middle Eastern cultural history. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, applied analysis, and cultural literacy, preparing graduates to interpret texts, evaluate historical and cultural trends, and contribute to research, teaching, or community initiatives. Students leave the program with linguistic proficiency, analytical skills, research competence, and cultural literacy, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in Hebrew studies, Jewish culture, education, or Middle Eastern studies.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures - Hebrew and Judaica Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Language Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Hebrew and Judaica Studies
- Introduction to Hebrew Language and Grammar
- Survey of Jewish History and Cultural Traditions
- Research Methods and Critical Thinking
- Foundations of Hebrew Literature and Textual Analysis
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Language and Culture
- Advanced Hebrew Language and Composition
- Jewish Literature and Intellectual Traditions
- Applied Research Projects in Cultural Contexts
- Electives: Biblical Studies, Modern Hebrew Literature, or Jewish Philosophy
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Contemporary Jewish Culture and Society
- Interdisciplinary Approaches to Language, History, and Culture
- Applied Projects in Literature, Religion, or Cultural Studies
- Electives: Jewish Diaspora Studies, Judaic Thought, or Middle Eastern Politics
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Issues in Hebrew and Judaica Studies
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Cultural Institutions, Educational Programs, or Research Centers
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Hebrew and Judaica Studies program are prepared for careers in language education, cultural research, translation and interpretation, museum and heritage institutions, international relations, and academic research. Alumni may work as educators, translators, cultural analysts, policy consultants, or pursue graduate studies in Hebrew studies, Judaica, Middle Eastern studies, or related fields. The program equips graduates to analyze texts and culture, interpret historical contexts, and apply research and language skills to professional and academic challenges. With strong linguistic, analytical, and research skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on Jewish culture, Hebrew studies, and applied cultural research.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of language proficiency, cultural analysis, applied research, and interdisciplinary study within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, immersive language experiences, and applied research projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in literature, history, and culture. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving, preparing graduates to evaluate complex cultural and historical phenomena, develop research-based insights, and contribute meaningfully to professional and academic initiatives. For students passionate about Hebrew language, Jewish culture, and applied research, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
