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

PHILOSOPHY - Camisha Russell, an associate professor of philosophy in the College of Arts and Sciences at University of Oregon, has been named a Mellon Foundation New Directions Fellow  for 2024. Each year, approximately 12 scholars are selected for the prize, and Russell is the UO’s first faculty member to receive this honor.
When Damon Jones '84 was diagnosed with cancer, he was determined to make some dreams come true. One of those dreams was reviving "The Last Dragon," a stage production he was part of in his last year in the Theatre Department at University of Oregon. Through sheer determination he pulled together the majority of the original cast, and they are staging it live in Portland Aug. 8-10, 2024.
ECONOMICS, GLOBAL STUDIES, PHILOSOPHY, POLITICAL SCIENCE - Two College of Arts and Sciences students — one attending an immersive Mandarin language study abroad and the other serving on a state of Oregon board on climate change and exploring Peru — are having life-transforming experiences.

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Drawing Science Workshop
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Drawing Science Workshop Sep 10 Knight Library
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Overcoming Academic Perfectionism Sep 12
2024 Electrochem PNW Conference
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2024 Electrochem PNW Conference Sep 19 Willamette Hall
2024 Electrochem PNW Conference
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2024 Electrochem PNW Conference Sep 20 Willamette Hall
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Graduate Employee Day of Teaching Sep 25 Willamette Hall
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The Achievement of James Joyce Sep 28 Baker Downtown Center
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13th Annual SPICE Science Open House 2024 Oct 9 Willamette Hall
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Dept. of History Graduate Student Welcome Back Barbecue Oct 10 Wayne Morris Family Farm Picnic Shelter
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How to Use Career Resources on Campus for International Students Oct 10
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How to: Resume and Cover Letter tips (Workshop) Oct 14 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall

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