Jewish Studies

Jewish Studies is a field of study that examines Jewish culture, thought, and history in various settings and socio-political interactions. Courses that fulfill the minor requirements draw on the interests and expertise of faculty across a range of disciplines: from history to English, from religious studies to German studies, from political science to classical studies, theatre and art history. Some courses are focused on Jews and Judaism in particular times and places, while other courses approach Jewish society, thought, texts, and beliefs comparatively.

Jewish Studies courses are open to all students. Many courses do not require prior knowledge (those that do will have prerequisites attached), so students are free to explore the diverse offerings in the program.

The Jewish Studies minor examines the historical, religious, artistic, intellectual, and political contributions of Jews and Judaism from antiquity to modernity. Students will  learn about cultures and traditions vital to an understanding of ethics, aesthetics, politics, and the history of communities. The interdisciplinary minor is supported by faculty across a range of fields: from history to English; religious studies to German studies; political science to classical studies; theater; and art history.

Jewish Studies Minor

A new curriculum for the Jewish Studies Minor at the University of Richmond is forthcoming.

Research

Because the Jewish Studies minor is interdisciplinary in nature, research projects typically originate in a student’s major field of interest and may include issues pertaining to Judaism and the history of the Jewish people. For instance, a student interested in examining racial ideology in the Third Reich might begin by finding a research advisor in political science, German studies, or history. From there, the student might invite a second advisor who regularly teaches Jewish studies courses.

Skills Gained as a Jewish Studies Minor

• Global perspective
• Increased understanding of different value systems and cultures
• Ability to convey complex information
• Informed comparison of beliefs/social systems
• Capacity for making connections between history, culture, and politics
• Ability to interrogate assumptions and presuppositions
• Textual analysis and critique

Faculty

The Jewish Studies faculty includes scholarly specialists in Middle Eastern thought and politics; Judaic, Christian, and Arab religions; German culture and politics; European history; Holocaust representation; and Jewish life and culture in European context.

Experiential Learning

Four walls can’t contain an entire education. That’s why most Richmond students participate in experiential learning opportunities that take what has been learned in the classroom and apply it to the real world, via research, an internship, or study abroad.

Internships

Located in a thriving capital city and less than two hours south of Washington, D.C., the University of Richmond is well- situated for students interested in securing engaging internship opportunities. Jewish Studies minors can volunteer or intern with the Virginia Holocaust Museum or at one of eight synagogues in the Richmond area (two orthodox, two conservative, three reform, and one independent).

In Washington, D.C., political action committees like the Jewish Council for Public Affairs and the Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs advocate at the national level for Jewish issues and ethical issues that impact democracy and world affairs. Students interested in pursuing opportunities like these should visit Career Services early in their academic careers to identify possible internships.

Study Abroad

As is the case with research and internships, students will find a diverse array of study abroad opportunities that can typically complement their major fields of interest. The University of Richmond has a partnership with the International School at the University of Haifa, which offers English-taught classes for undergraduate students. Students are also encouraged to consider studying Judaism in other locations such as the Czech Republic, Poland, and Spain.

Courses taken at Haifa can count toward the Jewish Studies minor.