Hebrew & Judaic Studies

The Hebrew and Judaic Studies (HEJS) at UConn enables undergraduate and graduate students to study the cultures and civilization of the Jewish people through the unique perspective of experts within a truly international department.

An Interdisciplinary Learning Experience

Many Judaic Studies programs in the United States are housed within religion, Near Eastern studies, or other academic departments.

At UConn, Hebrew and Judaic Studies is part of the Department of Literatures, Cultures, and Languages, creating opportunities for students to explore Jewish history, culture, literature, and thought alongside the many cultures and civilizations with which Jewish communities have interacted over the centuries.

This interdisciplinary approach is supported by UConn’s Center for Judaic Studies and Contemporary Jewish Life, which enriches both undergraduate and graduate study through academic programs, events, and community engagement opportunities.

Undergraduate Education

HEJS offers both a major and a minor in Judaic studies. Our undergraduate courses attract students from across the University. Many HEJS courses fulfill general education requirements, and honors sections and W courses are available.

Graduate Education

The Department offers both a Master of Arts (MA) and Ph.D. in Literatures, Cultures, and Languages. Graduate students can combine their interest in a relevant culture and literature (e.g., German, Spanish, Italian, French, Arabic) with a concentration in Hebrew and Judaic Studies.

Contact Us

For more information, contact Jessica Cooperman, section chair of Hebrew and Judaic Studies and director of the Center for Judaic Studies and Contemporary Jewish Life.