Judaic Studies

Students from many different backgrounds and diverse interests benefit from learning more about the history of Western civilization through the perspective of Judaic studies. The Harold Schnitzer Family Program in Judaic Studies offers both a major and a minor for students. The program emphasizes the history, religion, and civilization of the Jewish people, as well as two years’ proficiency in Hebrew language and literature. The major is interdisciplinary, meaning undergraduates can take courses from a variety of departments that appeal to their unique interests. Students graduate with both advanced language skills and an increased awareness of diverse cultures and traditions.

15

STUDENTS MAJORING OR MINORING IN JUDAIC STUDIES

90

STUDENTS IN JUDAIC STUDIES CLASSES

200+

JUDAIC STUDIES CREDITS

What You Can Do with a Degree in Judaic Studies

Judaic studies provides students with a broad, liberal arts background suitable for careers in a wide range of professional fields and prepares students for graduate work in Judaic studies or related endeavors. The flexible, interdisciplinary nature of the program means a major or minor in Judaic studies can complement a variety of other majors. Graduates of Judaic studies can work in:

  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Religious organizations
  • Social service organizations
  • Colleges and universities
  • Libraries and archives
  • Cultural heritage organizations
  • Print and online media publishing
  • Public interest groups
  • Legal aid societies

How Judaic Studies Impacts Your Studies

Talia James, students of Judaic studies minor, '25

“I have been enrolled in Judaic Studies courses at the University of Oregon since my freshman year. From finishing my second year of Hebrew to learning about my Ashkenazi Jewish identity, the Judaic Studies program has been an enriching and special aspect of my college experience. The faculty and professors have always been a support system for me during my academic journey at the UO. I am grateful for a trusted program where I can continue to build meaningful relationships with peers and mentors who enjoy learning about Jewish culture and history.”

—Talia James, Judaic studies minor, '25

Chloe Sesar, studnet of Judaic studies minor, '24

“It’s been a pleasure learning Hebrew at The University of Oregon for the last two years. Not only did I learn so much about the language itself, but I also gained knowledge about Middle Eastern culture and history, which enhanced my understanding and connection with the language courses. I feel so grateful that I have grown my Hebrew skills, and I cannot wait to practice them this summer in Israel!”

—Chloe Sesar, Judaic studies minor, '24

Our Degree Programs

Students who major in Judaic studies explore a comprehensive undergraduate curriculum in the history, religion, and cultural traditions of the Jewish people. The major also offers instruction in Biblical Hebrew language and literature.

Two students are giving a presentation on stage with a screen behind them

Learn from Experts in the Field

Students majoring in Judaic studies will learn from faculty who are known experts in their respective fields. Because each student is given the flexibility to build their own course of study built on their specific interests, there are opportunities to work with faculty representing a broad range of departments.

Group of students posing in front of a whiteboard with Hebrew letter on it

Get Real-world Experience

Our students extend their learning beyond the classroom through numerous experiential learning opportunities. Immerse yourself in another culture while studying abroad, develop vital job skills in an internship or practicum, or conduct original research on a topic that sparks your interest.

Scholarships and Funding

Students in the Judaic Studies Program can seek funding through the College of Arts and Sciences, which awards various scholarships both to incoming students and to those already attending the UO.

Undergraduate Scholarships

Academic Support

Our academic advisors can help students understand their major or minor requirements, plan their course of study, explore study abroad opportunities, and more.

Undergraduate Advising

Humanities News and Judaic Studies Events

ENGLISH — As a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and an associate professor in English at the University of Oregon, Kirby Brown blends a deep commitment to preserving his family’s personal stories with a vision for fostering Indigenous research and archival storytelling. He seeks to highlight moments of love, joy, humor, resistance, desire and futurity through storytelling and literature.
PHILOSOPHY, ENGLISH — During “AI and the Humanities,” a panel discussion featuring professors from the University of Oregon explored the impact of AI. The panel was sponsored by the Oregon Humanities Center as part of the center’s 40th anniversary events on the topic of “Humanities Matter(s).” From their in-depth discussion, came five key takeaways about AI.
THEATRE ARTS - Alum Jana Schmieding, Lakota comedian-actor-writer, has made the journey from struggling artist to success story and vocal champion of Natives in film, TV and comedy. She’ll share what she has learned along the way as keynote speaker for the university’s 148th commencement ceremony, June 16 at Autzen Stadium.

All news »


Symposium: The Limits and Possibilities of Cross-border Latinidades & Indigeneities
Apr24
Symposium: The Limits and Possibilities of Cross-border Latinidades & Indigeneities Apr 24 Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art (JSMA)
China Town Hall (UO): The First 100 Days - President Trump's China Policy
Apr24
China Town Hall (UO): The First 100 Days - President Trump's China Policy Apr 24 McKenzie Hall
Bob Bussel Labor History Lecture—Essential Workers: Public Employment and the Dignity of Labor
Apr24
Bob Bussel Labor History Lecture—Essential Workers: Public Employment and the Dignity of Labor Apr 24 William W. Knight Law Center
Take Back The Night
Apr24
Take Back The Night Apr 24 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Cinema Studies Presents: Screening of DÌDI (弟弟) and Q&A with Director Sean Wang
Apr24
Cinema Studies Presents: Screening of DÌDI (弟弟) and Q&A with Director Sean Wang Apr 24 Lawrence Hall
Indigenous, Race, and Ethnic Studies Presents: “The Violence of Love: Race, Adoption, and Family in the United States.”
Apr25
Indigenous, Race, and Ethnic Studies Presents: “The Violence of Love: Race, Adoption, and Family in the United States.” Apr 25 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society Presents: Study and Sustenance
Apr25
Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society Presents: Study and Sustenance Apr 25 McKenzie Hall
Cinema Studies Presents: Directing Masterclass with Sean Wang
Apr25
Cinema Studies Presents: Directing Masterclass with Sean Wang Apr 25 Lawrence Hall
36th Annual Fred Attneave Memorial Lecture: Dr. Roberto Cabeza, Duke University
Apr25
36th Annual Fred Attneave Memorial Lecture: Dr. Roberto Cabeza, Duke University Apr 25 Gerlinger Lounge
"Starting a Career in Publishing" with Mira Coles, UO Grad
Apr25
"Starting a Career in Publishing" with Mira Coles, UO Grad Apr 25

All events »