Bachelor's Degree Program
Jewish Studies
Starting in the 2025–26 winter semester, students can pursue a dual-major bachelor’s degree in “Jewish Studies” at the Martin Buber Institute in combination with another major in the Faculty of Arts.
Program at a Glance
| Title | Jewish Studies |
|---|---|
| Degree | Bachelor of Arts |
| Standard duration of study | 6 semesters |
| Language of Instruction | German, English |
| Start of studies | Winter semester |
| Course Catalog | Module Catalog |
| Admission Requirements | No enrollment cap |
Course Content
Graduates of the program acquire a well-founded and broad basic knowledge of Jewish tradition, as well as in-depth expertise in premodern or modern Jewish history and culture. Modern Hebrew instruction spans the entire three years of the program; other levels of Hebrew are also offered. In addition, the core modules provide an introduction to academic work, and the advanced modules enable students to practice independent research and the exploration of topics. Optional supplementary modules include, among other things, the possibility of an internship or recognition of academic credits earned abroad.
Course Structure
The Jewish Studies program is offered as a dual-major bachelor’s degree. It is combined with another program in the Faculty of Arts. The program is divided into foundational modules, advanced modules, and elective modules. In each module, students must earn a specified number of credit points and complete coursework and examinations.
In the first year of study, the basic modules provide an introduction to Judaism with historical depth and thematic breadth. The advanced modules allow students to both deepen their knowledge of premodern and modern Jewish history and to focus more intensively on one of these areas. As a supplementary module, students may also take a seminar from a related academic field (e.g., general history, philosophy, regional studies, Eastern European studies, Islamic studies, theater studies). In addition, students may complete an internship or a study abroad program as part of the supplementary module. Hebrew courses are an integral part of the program. Further information can be found in the module handbook.
Overview of the Modules
Basic Module 1: Jewish Ways of Life
An Introduction to Modern Jewish History
Basic module 2: Judaism in the pre-modern era
An Introduction to Pre-Modern Jewish Studies
Basic module 3: Hebrew I
Acquisition of Hebrew language skills equivalent to Level 1 (“Alef”) at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Basic module 4: Hebrew II
Acquisition of Hebrew language skills equivalent to Level 2 (“Beit”) at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Advanced Module 1: Jewish History and Culture
Students can acquire in-depth knowledge in either the field of pre-modern Jewish history (1a) or modern Jewish history (1b), and explore topic-specific research debates.
Advanced Module 2: Jewish History and Culture II
In-depth study of subject-specific knowledge and academic methods in an advanced seminar.
Advanced Module 3: Hebrew III
Improving Hebrew language skills
Additional module 1
Work placement or subject-specific or subject-related modules at a foreign university
Additional module 2
Either a seminar in a related subject or the acquisition of basic knowledge of another Jewish language
Bachelor’s thesis, if desired
The Bachelor’s thesis can be undertaken in the subject of Jewish Studies.
Career Prospects After Graduation
The bachelor’s program in Jewish Studies prepares students to successfully apply for a master’s program in Jewish Studies.
A Bachelor’s degree in Jewish Studies, with the subject-specific and language skills it provides, opens up career opportunities in museums and memorial sites, libraries and archives, political education, journalism, publishing, and the field of international cooperation.
FAQ
When and where can I apply for the Bachelor’s degree in Jewish Studies?
You can find information on applying for a place at university on the Student Registry’s website.
Can I start the Bachelor’s degree in Jewish Studies any semester?
No, the Bachelor’s degree in Jewish Studies can only be started in the winter semester.
Do I need any prior knowledge of Judaism?
No, no prior knowledge of Judaism or Jewish studies is required.
Do I need to know Hebrew?
No, knowledge of Hebrew is acquired during the course of study.
Which subjects can I combine this degree programme with?
The dual Bachelor’s degree in Jewish Studies can be combined with the wide range of courses offered by the Faculty of Arts.
How do I enroll in courses?
Course enrolment is handled via KLIPS.
How can I transfer credits and examination results from other degree programmes or other universities?
Staff at the Martin Buber Institute are available to assist with the recognition and crediting of academic achievements completed at universities abroad or as part of other teacher training or BA degree programmes at the University of Cologne.