Why Jewish Studies?
What Does a Jewish Studies Minor Do?
Jewish Studies minors approach the subject with diverse perspectives. The curriculum is interdisciplinary with courses rooted in various subjects, including history, film and television, business, English, political science, theater, theological studies, and more. These courses spanning fields of study allow you to explore various interests while meeting requirements for the minor and satisfying core university requirements. For seniors, the capstone option provides a unique opportunity to combine your major and minor into a substantial research, service, or internship project. The summer international travel experience also brings together a diverse group of students with acclaimed faculty for deeply engaging, site-specific study.
The Jewish Studies program enriches the collegiate experience for students of all backgrounds and faiths. Jewish students experience community that helps them connect with and deepen their own Jewish practice and understanding. Students with Jewish ancestry have a platform where they can begin to explore their connection to Judaism. All students find faculty, courses, programs, events, and opportunities for scholarships and internships beneficial as they engage in learning about and deepening their understanding of Jewish culture, history, and traditions. You don't have to be Jewish to experience and be successful in Jewish Studies!
Tanya Rasheesa '25
What does it mean to be a Jewish Studies minor? Tanya Rasheesa shares her experience with the minor and program.
Our Courses
Our diverse classes allow students to connect their major and the Jewish Studies minor studies with ease.
Travel Experiences
Interested in engaged learning beyond the classroom? Check out our exciting summer abroad experiences.
Student Projects
Students collaborate with partners like the David Labkovski Project to deepen their understanding of their courses.
Engagement Fellows
Student engagement fellows have a unique opportunity to assess the needs of the Jewish Studies program from a student perspective. Engagement fellows serve as ambassadors of the program and arrange to meet with other students over lunch or coffee, discuss their experiences, and inquire about what might be of interest to prospective students. Additionally, engagement fellows meet with Jewish leaders from LMU and the Greater Los Angeles community to find inspiring speakers for departmental events. If you are interested in serving as an engagement fellow, please contact Dr. Holli Levitsky here.
Internships
Jewish Studies students can enroll in JWST 4900 (the capstone course) to fulfill their final requirement for the minor. Most students participate in internships with our partners to fulfill this course, connecting their major, the Jewish Studies minor, and potential career prospects for a comprehensive experience. Due to our location and proximity to the Greater Los Angeles area, students can find virtually any opportunity that aligns with their interests.
In the past, students have interned with the American Jewish Committee, Beit T'Shuvah, Beit Tzedek, the Israeli Consulate, the Polish Consulate, Jewish Home for the Aged, the Jewish Federation, Jewish World Watch, Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust, The 1939 Society, Hillel International, National Council for Jewish Women, Vista del Mar, and more!
Scholarship Opportunities
As part of our values in the Jewish Studies program, we believe that students of any background who seek challenges and strive to lead should be rewarded for their hard work. Any student enrolled in a Jewish Studies course is eligible to apply for funding to support their research endeavors, creative projects, and course travel. The program also reserves special funding for Jewish Studies minors, especially those who demonstrate academic excellence.
Please visit our Scholarships and Awards page to view current opportunities.
Supporting Jewish Studies
Your contribution directly impacts our students and enhances their education. Make your gift to Jewish Studies today!