Undergraduate Program

The Skirball Department of Hebrew and Judaic Studies seeks to present an integrated program in Hebrew language and literature as well as a full range of offerings in Jewish history, philosophy, and the arts. The department draws together the vast resources of New York University in this growing field. Students may major or minor in Hebrew language and literature or in Jewish history and civilization. Qualified students are encouraged to enroll in appropriate graduate courses. Students from other departments have the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and understanding of major events and ideas that shaped the development of Jewish civilization and culture. Courses are taught by a diverse faculty whose fields include biblical studies, postbiblical and Talmudic literature, medieval and modern Hebrew literature, history of the Jews in the medieval and modern periods, Jewish philosophy, Jewish mysticism, and related fields. Students also have the opportunity to study with the Dorot Visiting Fellow. The Dorot program brings scholars from other fields who have an interest in Judaic Studies to various departments in NYU to enrich the undergraduate offerings.

The Skirball Department of Hebrew and Judaic Studies sponsors a wide range of conferences, lectures, and colloquia which allow students exposure to current research and thought in the various areas of Jewish civilization. In addition, the department collaborates closely with the Departments of History, English, Comparative Literature, and Middle Eastern Studies; the Kevorkian Center for Near Eastern Studies; and other appropriate departments. The department is further enriched by the extensive holdings of the New York University Library of Judaica and Hebraica and by cooperative arrangements with Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. In addition, New York City offers students a wide range of resources, both academic and cultural. Students are also encouraged to study in Israel to broaden their knowledge of Hebrew and Judaic studies.