Fast Facts
Established in 2003, the Carolina Center for Jewish Studies, an interdisciplinary academic program in the College of Arts and Sciences, promotes a deeper understanding of Jewish history, culture and thought through its teaching, research and community outreach initiatives.
Academics
The University offers an undergraduate degree program in Jewish Studies. The degree program is available through the Department of Religious Studies, where students earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies with a Concentration in Jewish Studies.
Two academic minors – Jewish Studies and Modern Hebrew – continually attract a diverse group of Carolina students.
The number of Jewish Studies courses on the books for Carolina students has grown to more than 110, with approximately 30 offered each year.
In the current academic year, more than 25 faculty members teach and conduct research in Jewish Studies at Carolina. Faculty members are based in 11 different academic departments [Religious Studies, Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, German/Slavic Languages and Literatures, American Studies, History, English, Romance Studies, Classics, Anthropology, Women’s and Gender Studies, and Music].
Students have the opportunity to pursue Jewish Studies through study abroad programs worldwide. Students may also participate in archaeological excavations at Huqoq, in Israel.
Public Programs Each year, the Center hosts free, public lectures that bring an array of international experts to the campus community and general public.
The Center also co-sponsors programs hosted by other Carolina departments, Duke University, and community organizations, to further enrich the student experience and expand community outreach efforts. One example is the NC Jewish Studies Seminar, which the Center co-sponsors with several other nearby universities and UNC Carolina Seminars, providing the local academic community with the opportunity to meet and discuss scholarly papers.
Community Support The Center depends on private support in order to fully realize its mission of teaching, research and community outreach. Generous donations have established endowed faculty chairs, supported graduate students, sponsored student and faculty research, and underwritten dynamic public programs.
The Center’s Advisory Board, comprised of alumni and community leaders, helps guide the Center’s growth and assists with raising private support.
Vision The Center’s global focus and comprehensive scope of study, coupled with Carolina’s national reputation as a student-focused research university, make the program truly unique among its peers. The Center’s rapid growth has established Carolina as the leading institution for Jewish Studies in the American south and as a prominent source of research with an international reputation.
Our History
Established in 2003, the Carolina Center for Jewish Studies has experienced remarkable growth and impact.
Learn MoreAdvisory Board
Our advisory board is comprised of alumni and community members who help with outreach.
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