Program Overview

Jewish Studies

Jewish studies is an interdisciplinary major that teaches students to appreciate and analyze both continuities and differences in Jewish history, religion, and culture around the world. Students who major in Jewish studies will take courses in many fields, including history, cinema studies, German, Latin American studies, philosophy, religion, comparative literature, music, theater, and dance.

female professor in auditorium talking to audience while standing in front of a large movie screen.
Associate Professor Laura Herron leads a discussion in Hallock Auditorium after the showing a film, ‘‘Son of Saul,’’ that is part of the annual Ring Family Jewish Film Festival.
Photo credit: Chris Schmucki ’22

Program Facts

  • Program Type: Major, Minor
    • Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  • Department: Jewish Studies

Program Director

Cynthia (Cindy) Chapman,
Adelia A.F. Johnston and Harry Thomas Frank Professor of Religion

Contact

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Student Clubs and Organizations

With more than 175 student groups and clubs from which to choose, you’d be hard pressed not to get involved in something. From economics to faith and identity, and from counseling to sports, Oberlin has an array of clubs open to new and returning students.

Office of Religious and Spiritual Life

The Office of Religious and Spiritual Life (ORSL) is a multifaith resource center that supports religious practice, education, service, and activism, and provides spiritual support and counseling. ORSL organizes an array of programs to support and enrich Oberlin’s multifaith community.

Why Study Jewish Studies at Oberlin?

8 Student Clubs
book Variety of Courses
2 Study Away Programs

Sample Courses

  • JWST 109 - Jerusalem: Negotiating Sacred Space (4 credits)
  • JWST 208 - New Testament and Christian Origins (4 credits)
  • JWST 253 - Pilgrimage, Travel, and Judaism (4 credits)
  • JWST 335 - Seminar: Crusades: Contact & Conflict in the Mediterranean World (4 credits)
Curriculum and requirements

Jewish Studies Faculty

Our faculty are both scholars and teachers who make important contributions to their disciplines through writing and research. Their teaching interests include Medieval and early modern Europe, politics, and Judaism and religion in the modern world. They are committed to undergraduate education and teach everything from first-year seminars to advanced courses.

Explore Faculty within Jewish Studies

Jewish Studies News

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