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Jewish Studies ,BA

Jewish Studies, BA


Conflict, Culture, DIASPORA, Ethnicity, Hebrew, Holocaust, Language, Middle East, Minorities, Theology, history, judaism, philosophy, politics, religion

Cultivate a global and transdisciplinary perspective on the humanities through the lens of the Jewish experience. Develop a nuanced understanding of both Jews and Judaism, as well as the Jewish social and cultural contributions to the societies in which they live, from antiquity until the present.

Program description

The BA in Jewish studies offers a transdisciplinary, cross-cultural and temporally expansive program of study. It focuses both on the study of Judaism as a religion and on Jewishness as a distinct set of cultural values, peoplehood and historical legacy.

As with other degree programs in the humanities or social sciences, a Bachelor of Arts in Jewish studies provides an intellectual balance and complement to the study of science and technology. By engaging the Jewish experience as both a historical and contemporary reality, the program facilitates enhanced cultural, historical and global awareness.

In addition to reviewing the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.

At a glance
  • Second language requirement: Yes
  • First required math course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
  • Math intensity: Generalprogram math intensity general

Required courses (Major Map)
Concurrent program options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Accelerated program options
Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Change of Major requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.

Transfer options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Global opportunities
Global experience

Study abroad programs can help students connect the past to the present. Judaism dates back to ancient times, and people of this heritage can be found all over the world. Students can immerse themselves in places that hold much significance for Jewish peoples, whether in Israel or elsewhere in the diaspora.

Participation in one of the more than 300 available Global Education programs can provide real-world experience that complements skills and lessons learned in the classroom. Study abroad helps students gain a global perspective and an increased appreciation for the history, philosophy and religion of different cultures. In addition, the experience and understandings gained across borders can aid in a competitive job search.

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these programs for students majoring in Jewish studies.

Career opportunities

Graduates who receive a bachelor's degree in Jewish studies and pursue a career with one of the hundreds of U.S. companies that do business in Israel have a competitive edge because of their familiarity with Jewish culture.

Jewish studies graduates are also prepared to:

  • attend rabbinical seminary in preparation for becoming a community rabbi or chaplain
  • engage in world political and economic issues
  • pursue advanced education in Jewish professional service fields

The degree also provides a firm foundation for those who wish to pursue advanced degrees related to their area of interest in fields that may include:

  • archaeology
  • creative writing
  • ethics
  • film and media
  • history
  • journalism
  • justice studies
  • law
  • philosophy
  • political science
  • religious studies

Career example titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience, geographical location, and required advanced degrees or certifications may affect pay scales.


Career *Growth *Median salary
8.2%
$58,640
35.2%
$103,500
3.9%
$80,910
-4.0%
$73,080
3.1%
$64,540
Lawyer   Bright Outlook
7.5%
$135,740
3.4%
$48,090
6.1%
$67,440
2.7%
$78,780
0.6%
$55,550
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Bright OutlookBright Outlook

Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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