Major & Minors

The major in Jewish studies requires 32 credit hours. Students can choose to specialize in one of the two tracks: Judaism as a Religious Tradition or Jewish History and Culture. All majors must enroll in the core courses and can choose electives based on interest and availability.

Required Core Courses:
JS 100p Introduction to Jewish History OR JS 180p Judaism (4 units)
REL 301 Introduction to the Study of Religion (4 units) (Fall)
REL 401 Seminar in Religions (4 units) (Spring)

Judaism as a Religious Tradition Track (Choose 1 Course)
Jewish History and Culture Track (Choose 1 Course)

Electives (3 Courses):
Choose three electives from either track. At least one of the electives must be upper-division (300-499)

Hebrew Language: Students are encouraged to study the Hebrew language through HEBR 120 Hebrew I, HEBR 150 Hebrew II, and HEBR 220 Hebrew III, which may be used to fulfill the Dornsife language requirement. However, it is not required.

The minor in Jewish Studies provides the opportunity for in-depth study of Jewish thought, ethics, history, literature, tradition, spirituality, and gender studies. It is an interdisciplinary program that challenges students to examine and learn about Jews and Judaism as a topic of academic inquiry.

For the minor, students must take either JS 100 or JS 180 and then choose four upper division courses from either of the two tracks.

Total unit requirement: 20 units

In conjunction with American Studies and Ethnicity, Jewish Studies offers a multi-disciplinary program designed to introduce students to the history and culture of American Jews in comparative context. Classes look at Jews’ interactions with diverse communities and cultures throughout the United States. This minor develops skills in thinking critically about majority and minority cultures, diversity among ethnic groups, and multi-faith relationships.

For the minor, 20 units of American Studies and Judaic Studies are required.