Through diverse course offerings and an undergraduate major, the Program in Jewish Studies enables undergraduate students to develop a broad knowledge of the history, religion, literature, philosophy, languages, and politics of the Jews. Jewish society, texts, ideologies, material cultures, and institutions are studied from a comparative perspective in the context of the histories, cultures, and intellectual traditions among which Jews have lived throughout the ages. As an interdisciplinary program, the Program in Jewish Studies employs historical, literary, political, social, and philosophical methods of analysis.
1922 drawing of the Sabbath by Issachar Ber Ryback, part of Yale’s Yiddish Book Collection of the Russian Avant-Garde
The Jewish Studies major offers a broad liberal arts background combined with intensive preparation in the historical and religious experience of Jewish cultures from antiquity to contemporary times. It can also be combined, as a second major, with various other majors, including Economics, Political Science, Literature, English, Philosophy, and History.
As an interdisciplinary program, the Program in Jewish Studies employs historical, literary, political, social, philological, and philosophical methods of analysis. Students have opportunities to work in libraries and archives, study and travel abroad, and participate in the program’s vibrant events.
Explore undergraduate opportunities
Whether you are curious about registering for your first Jewish Studies course or considering a major, we would love to hear from you!
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Class trip to Touro Synagogue and Newport Historical Society Archives
“It’s one thing to analyze networks from a distance in the classroom. It’s another to sit in Touro’s wooden pews and hold López’s own letters.”
Questions?
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Eliyahu Stern
Professor of Modern Jewish Intellectual and Cultural HistoryChair of the Program in Jewish Studies; Director of Undergraduate Studies; Executive Committee
