Graduate Program in Hebrew Studies

M.A. in Hebrew Studies

The master’s program in Hebrew Studies offers graduate training in Hebrew language, linguistics, and literature (biblical, rabbinic, modern); Hebrew language pedagogy; Jewish thought; the culture of ancient and modern Israel; and biblical archaeology. The program trains students in research methods leading to independent investigation.

Students who do not have a bachelor’s degree in Hebrew language and literature or the equivalent must take three undergraduate core courses (Hebrew 321, Hebrew Grammar, Hebrew 322, Introduction to Hebrew Literature, and Hebrew 325, Advanced Conversation and Composition), before beginning graduate level Hebrew coursework. These undergraduate core courses may not be counted toward the degree.

M.A. Degree Requirements

A Master of Arts in Hebrew studies requires 30 hours of coursework and the demonstration of Advanced proficiency in Hebrew.
MA with thesis (30 hours):

1. Hebrew 382C, topic 3: Hebrew for Academic Reading
2. 21 hours of coursework chosen in consultation with a faculty mentor;
3. 6 hours of thesis coursework.

 

 

Ph.D. in Hebrew Studies

The PhD program in Hebrew studies aims to broaden and deepen the student’s knowledge of Hebrew language, literature, and culture and to develop his or her skills and abilities for scholarly research and teaching. For research purposes, reading knowledge in one or two languages in addition to Hebrew is required. Another Middle Eastern language of relevance to the student's research is recommended, as is a period of study and research in Israel. 

Degree Requirements

Students choose between a specialization in literature and culture with supporting work in language and linguistics and a specialization in language and linguistics with supporting work in literature and culture. They normally take relevant courses in such fields as Jewish studies, language pedagogy, comparative literature, and history and anthropology of the Middle East or another region relevant to their interest.

All students must take Hebrew 382C, topic 3: Hebrew for Academic Reading. Students who specialize in literature and culture must take two courses in literary criticism, theory, or cultural studies. Students who specialize in language and linguistics must take Linguistics 380K: Phonology I and 380L: Syntax I or their equivalents. Additional coursework is chosen in consultation with a faculty mentor.

Before advancing to candidacy, students must demonstrate the ability to read Hebrew scholarly publications and to participate in scholarly activities in Hebrew, that is Superior proficiency in Hebrew. Students must also demonstrate Intermediate-High reading knowledge in two additional languages.
An examination committee oversees the student's progress and eventually administers a comprehensive examination. After passing this examination, the candidate sets up a dissertation committee with the help of the graduate adviser. This committee approves the dissertation proposal, guides the student in writing the dissertation, and administers the final oral defense.