Why Pursue Judaic Studies?
The interdisciplinary Harold Schnitzer Family Program in Judaic Studies provides a comprehensive undergraduate curriculum in the history, religion, and cultural traditions of the Jewish people and offers instruction in modern Hebrew language and literature. The program consists of both core courses taught by specialists in the program and related courses taught by participating faculty members across a dozen different programs and departments. The focus on Jewish cultures and experiences as lenses to study the world provides a liberal arts background suitable to a range of careers and prepares students for graduate work in Judaic studies, religious studies, and related fields.
Major in Judaic Studies
The Judaic Studies Program consists of required core courses taught under the JDST, HBRW, and REL subject codes and related courses taught in the disciplines of participating faculty members, including anthropology, art history, comparative literature, English, geography, Germanic languages and literatures, history, landscape architecture, music, philosophy, political science, religious studies, romance languages, sociology, and women’s and gender studies.
Our Programs:
Plan Your Path
See how this program can fit with another major or minor, and explore a possible four-year path to graduation with Global Pathways.
“Hello, My name is Tahlia Fehl!
My time in the University of Oregon’s Judaic Studies department has been a period of profound intellectual and personal growth. Through interdisciplinary coursework—from biblical texts to modern Jewish thought—I gained a deep understanding of Jewish history, culture, and philosophy, along with critical tools to examine identity, tradition, and justice.
I especially valued the department’s blend of textual analysis, collaborative discussion, and research that connected ancient wisdom to today’s challenges. This experience reshaped how I think about community, responsibility, and storytelling.
Whether in graduate study, nonprofit work, or Jewish education, the knowledge and values I’ve gained here will guide me. Judaic Studies has not only deepened my heritage connection but given me lasting purpose.”
—Tahlia Fehl, Judaic Studies major, '25
Get Real-World Experience
Students in the Judaic Studies Program can expand their skills through study abroad programs and other experiential learning opportunities.
What You Can Do with a Judaic Studies Degree
A Judaic studies major can prepare you to work in many fields. Learn about possible careers and hear from alumni.
Advising and Academic Support
Schedule an appointment with a faculty or peer advisor, find important department forms and get answers.
Scholarships and Awards
Learn about ways to apply for funding through the Department of Judaic Studies.