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Master of Arts in Jewish Studies

Master of Arts in Jewish Studies

Spertus Institute's Master of Arts in Jewish Studies (MAJS) is a sequenced, content-specific program that explores the evolving nature of Jewish civilization, the fundamental religious and intellectual outlook of Jews and Judaism, and the contributions of Jewish civilization to human civilization. The program is designed to provide inspiration and grounding for students who embrace and continue to explore both Jewish heritage and Jewish life today.

Throughout the program, students explore and examine Jewish texts — a traditional and effective mode of Jewish learning — to promote intellectual growth through discovery and inquiry.

Admissions requirements include a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution of higher education.

Learning Outcomes

  • Basic familiarity with the key periods and themes in Jewish history 
  • Understanding of the nature and development of Judaism as a religion 
  • Familiarity with the most important Jewish thinkers and personalities 
  • Familiarity with the central texts in Jewish tradition and history 
  • Understanding of the complex relations between Jews, Judaism, and the non-Jewish world 
  • Understanding of the challenges and possibilities facing Jews and Judaism throughout history and how Jews and Judaism have responded  
  • Basic understanding of Biblical Hebrew, equivalent to one year of college-level Hebrew 
  • Familiarity with primary resources and methodologies involved in Jewish Studies 
  • Development of intermediate to advanced knowledge and skills in an area of individual focus selected by the student 
  • Awareness of Jewish diversity throughout the ages

Course Requirements (48 quarter-hour credits)

Spertus Institute's Jewish Studies degree programs are offered on a quarter-term system, which allows for flexible start dates. As a result, course credit is granted in quarter hours (as opposed to semester hours).

View the course calendar

Is This Program For Me?
Contact Director of Enrollment Anita Silvert asilvert@spertus.edu or 312.322.1707, who will meet you to discuss your goals.

Why Spertus Institute?

  • Welcoming nondenominational environment open to all
  • Distinguished international faculty
  • Flexible scheduling and locations, distance learning available
  • Opportunities to pursue individual interests
  • Extensive resources

IS THIS PROGRAM FOR ME?

Contact Director of Enrollment
Anita Silvert at asilvert@spertus.edu or 312.322.1707 to discuss program content and format, and to learn about how curricula can be designed to meet your needs.

ADMISSION INFORMATION

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JEWISH STUDIES AT SPERTUS

At Spertus Institute, we embrace the idea that the wisdom of Jewish thought and the richness of Jewish experiences inform Jewish society and Judaism today. Our programs encourage personal reflection. Students grapple with Jewish ideas in the service of their personal, professional, and communal advancement.

Costs

Reasonable tuition rates encourage participation by students in a range of disciplines from around the world. In fact, Spertus Jewish Studies students hail from 26 US states and 6 foreign countries.

  • Masters level tuition
    $350 per quarter-hour credit
    ($1050 per 3qh course)

  • Doctoral level tuition 
    $400 per quarter-hour credit
    ($1200 per 3qh course)

Students must be admitted before registering for courses. A registration fee of $25 is added at the time of payment.

Gainful Employment Information

Accreditation

Spertus Institute is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA), 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604.