Grounded in the study of modern Hebrew language and classical texts, this interdisciplinary major encourages students to engage Judaism as a living, vibrant civilization with courses in history, religion, literature, anthropology, sociology and American studies.
Judaic studies is an interdisciplinary major designed to foster broad comprehension of the history and development of Jewish civilization from its Ancient Near-Eastern origins through present times. Coursework drawn from a variety of academic departments allows students to appreciate the diversity of Jewish life and culture as they evolved in both Western and non-Western societies.
Judaism is a tradition with a rich and varied history that spans more than 3,000 years. To explore Judaic studies is to open a window onto a world that has influenced our own world in many important ways: Judaism's pivotal role in the development of major world religions (Christianity and Islam) and its importance for understanding the politics of the modern Middle East are among a number of important examples.
Local Jewish services and events and activities of interests can be found at Congregation Beth Tikvah in Carlisle as well as at the United Jewish Community and Jewish Community Center in nearby Harrisburg. And Dickinson has three partner programs that take students abroad to Israel.
“Studying immunology in the midst of the COVID pandemic has made for especially relevant lessons,” says Galil Cohen ’23, a biochemistry & molecular biology major and a Red Devil soccer player.
Artists-in-residence Present Lost Music of World War II
A leading scholar and a singer-songwriter brought world-premiere music and WWII research to Dickinson. Their virtual residency included personalized feedback on student research.
Dickinson College Sociology Major Finds Success as Rabbi, Bioethicist and Novelist
Rabbi, teacher and novelist Phil Cohen ’73, former sociology major, shares his faith and talent for writing in a new Jewish science fiction detective novel.
Child Survivor of WWII Recalls Wartime Experiences and Road to Fulfillment, Success
Louis Reens '54 faced profound challenges as a child survivor of WWII. His resilience and intellectual curiosity allowed him to not just survive but thrive. He recently shared his story.
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Kosher Food but Were Afraid to Ask
How is kosher food prepared, and how can I try it at Dickinson? Is poke kosher? Rabbi Marley Weiner will answer all your burning questions about kashrut (including what kashrut is!).