Jewish Learning
for a Better World
An Institution of Higher Jewish Learning Dedicated to Real-World Action
At Spertus Institute, we believe that the wisdom in Jewish history, thought, and texts has meaning as an academic pursuit and as a catalyst for action. The learning we offer is significant to the challenges we face today — and to building a stronger and more vibrant future.
Spertus Institute provides learning that is rich and relevant, rooted in Jewish wisdom, and open to all.
Spertus graduate degree, certificate, and public programs serve students in Chicago and worldwide.
Students gain knowledge, understanding, and the skills to shape a stronger future, within and beyond their Jewish communities.
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Spertus Institute wishes a hearty Mazel Tov to our most recent cohort of the Certificate in Jewish Leadership (CJL), a partnership between Spertus Institute and Northwestern University.
The Leadership Certificate in Combating Antisemitism for Professionals (LCCA-P) is an innovative program for executives and senior leaders of Jewish organizations to gain the tools and confidence to respond to the troubling rise in antisemitism.
The Leadership Certificate in Combating Antisemitism for Lay Leaders (LCCA-LL) is an innovative program for trustees and board members of Jewish organizations and foundations to gain the tools and confidence to respond to the troubling rise in antisemitism.
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Critical Conversations is an annual Spertus Institute program that brings together high-profile experts and practitioners to address the most critical issues of the day. 2026 Critical Conversations asks: Why are conversations about Israel so difficult? What fears and identity questions lie beneath them? How should we teach, learn, and lead around Israel? How can we cultivate resilient Jewish communities capable of engaging across difference without sacrificing integrity, complexity, or connection?
There is a growing consensus that successful and holistic Israel education demands a sophisticated and nuanced engagement with critical questions within Israel, and in particular, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This feels especially pressing in a post-Oct. 7 world. Despite this critical need, many educators continue to express reticence about conflict education.
On this episode, host Rockne Roll speaks with Dr. Dean Bell of the Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership about the challenges of community building in Jewish life.
I acquired a deeper understanding and appreciation of Judaism. I was given the tools to help me shape a new Jewish future.
TANI PRELL
Creative Director
B’chol Lashon, Chicago
Featured Degree & Certificate Programs | view all >
Doctor of Hebrew Letters
MA in Jewish Professional Studies
Leadership Certificate in Combating Antisemitism
Impact
Those who learn at Spertus spark change in communities around the world. Their work ripples through their organizations and communities. It impacts every aspect of Jewish life.
