Yeshiva University (YU), the flagship Jewish university, launched a partnership with the Philos Project, a nonprofit organization that promotes positive Christian engagement with Judaism, to develop a special program for Christian students within YU’s existing Master’s in Jewish Studies. The program has attracted students from across the country with the hybrid model allowing students to participate in person at YU in New York City or virtually. The pilot class launched in June 2023 and includes students from Mozambique, Texas, California, Virginia and Nebraska.

Students and Faculty of Yeshiva University Bernard Revel School of Jewish Studies

The program builds on improved Christian and Jewish relations in recent decades and a growing interest from Christians in understanding the Jewish roots of their religion and the Bible. As the flagship Jewish university, YU is the natural place for students to gain a greater understanding of the foundational texts and history of Judaism. The students will be integrated seamlessly into the programming at YU’s Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies and receive a Master’s in Jewish Studies upon completion of their work. “The Hebraic Studies Program for Christian Students fits perfectly into the mission of the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies and the broader mission of Yeshiva University – which is focused on a commitment to using the tools of the academy to enhance understanding of Jewish religious and cultural heritage,” said Daniel Rynhold, Dean of the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies. “Christian students will hopefully gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of the Hebraic roots of Christianity, which would be helpful to emerging religious and cultural leaders.” “As America’s premier Orthodox Jewish institution of higher learning, Yeshiva University offers the ideal opportunity for traditional Christians looking to deepen their understanding of Jewish history, texts, and ideas. I meet many Christians interested in the Jewish context of their faith and asking to go deeper. This program is the perfect place to do just that,” commented Robert Nicholson, President and Executive Director of the Philos Project.

Revel Students undertake archaeological fieldwork in Israel.

The program will consist of four semesters, with students earning their Master’s in Jewish Studies after 30 credits. Coursework will include beginners Biblical Hebrew, a new course on Jewish approaches to Biblical interpretation, further courses on the Hebrew Bible, a course on Jewish-Christian relations and courses in ancient and modern Jewish history. Students can find more information about the Hebraic Studies Program for Christians, including enrollment details, at: https://philosproject.org/home/yeshiva/