Judaic Studies

Resources, Strengths, Career Paths, Skills

The minor in Judaic Studies, which is run in conjunction with the Department of History, is optimal for students of all backgrounds who are interested in working in jobs specifically dealing with Jewish culture and history. The minor allows students to build transcripts and resumes that have a heavy emphasis in Jewish studies.

Transferable Skills: Students who take the minor in Judaic Studies develop a diverse and widely used list of skills similar to those developed in other humanities programs. In addition, they acquire knowledge of written and spoken Hebrew and graduate with a unique perspective on the Jewish tradition and its profound impact on the modern world. Judaic Studies minors possess:

  • Extensive knowledge of both historic and modern Judaic cultures
  • Extensive knowledge of the Jewish religion
  • Knowledge of written and spoken modern Hebrew (currently spoken in Israel)
Note: These skills are specific to the minor in Judaic Studies. Additional skills acquired through Judaic Studies coursework can be found in the What Can I Do With a History Major page.

Career Paths: The minor in Judaic Studies can be taken by students of any major, so there is a virtually limitless number of fields a Judaic Studies student can ultimately pursue. Some fields of interest to a student particularly interested in working with Jewish culture, language and religion include:

  • Translation and interpretation
  • Archaeology
  • Torah and rabbinical studies
  • Teaching (elementary, secondary, and higher education as well as religious schools)
  • Travel and hospitality (Birthright trips)
  • Advocacy and lobbying
  • Museums
  • Community service

Resources & Professional Associations: There are numerous academic and professional organizations for students interested in connecting with other students of Judaic studies. Here is a small list to help get you started:

  • World Union of Jewish Studies
  • Association for Jewish Studies
  • American Academy of Jewish Research
  • Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies
  • Society of Biblical Literature
  • Institute for Global Jewish Affairs
  • American Academy of Religion
  • Association for the Social Scientific Study of Jewry

Also consider joining on-campus clubs related to Judaic Studies, Israel or the Jewish faith. On-campus student organizations are a great way to meet people with similar interests who may be able to connect you with professionals in your field. Visit the Stony Brook University Student Activities website for more information.

Additional Information: For additional information on the minor in Judaic Studies, go to: http://sb.cc.stonybrook.edu/bulletin/current/academicprograms/jds/