The intellectual and cultural values of Jews, their religious beliefs and practices, languages, literary creativity, modes of self-governance, and participation in the larger societies in which they live—these subjects form the core of Jewish Studies at UW-Madison. We encourage all students to consider a Jewish Studies major or certificate, regardless of your background or previous study.
From history to political science, sociology to music and the arts, Jewish Studies is a vibrant, interdisciplinary program that allows you to explore Jewish civilization from a variety of perspectives. While learning how Jews have lived, survived, and at certain times and places flourished, you will gain a deeper comprehension of their rich, varied culture and the world they inhabit. Your coursework will challenge you to think critically, read closely, and write effectively. And with the help of generous scholarships to support work at other institutions in the U.S. and abroad, you will have opportunities to expand your horizons while advancing your studies.
Due to the historical and geographical scope of the Jewish experience, Jewish Studies offers not only a fine-grained understanding of the field, but also a broad education in the humanities and social sciences. Building on that strong foundation, you may go on to pursue a variety of career paths, including education, library and information sciences, finance and international trade, journalism and mass media, social work, and the nonprofit sector. Our graduates are also well prepared to apply for law school, graduate school, or rabbinical school.
Interested in a major or certificate in Jewish Studies? Contact our undergraduate advisor.
For a full list of our current undergraduate courses, including instructors’ names and meeting times, please check the Jewish Studies and Modern Hebrew listings in the UW-Madison’s Course Search and Enroll portal.
