Getting Started

College: HFA

(Revised Spring 2019)

Judaic and Near Eastern Studies Department


Information below is meant to guide first year students in getting starting with this major and choosing appropriate courses.  More advanced students interested in this major would also likely start with proposed foundation/pre-requisite courses. Please refer to the Major page located in the left menu bar to learn about the full major requirements.

How to Explore / Get Started in the Major

Suggested General Education Courses

All Undergraduates are required to satisfy the General Education Requirements. Guidelines for students are available at https://www.umass.edu/gened. Students should choose a wide variety of Gen Ed courses, providing breadth of experience.

Suggested Major and Pre-requisite Courses

JUDAIC 101 – The Jewish Experience I: Ancient to Medieval
JUDAIC 102 – The Jewish Experience II: Medieval to Modern
HEBREW 110 - Elementary Modern Hebrew I
HEBREW 120 - Elementary Modern Hebrew II

*No course with a "P" Pass grade can be accepted for major credit.


How to Declare/ Change into the Major

For current & admitted students: This major is unrestricted, which means any student may declare the major. Unrestricted majors may still have an entry process such as meeting with an advisor or attending an informational meeting.

Students should consult with the department chair at any time to declare the major. They may contact the Office Manager with questions (jne@judnea.umass.edu).

Students may consult with Ofir Zussman for evaluation of Hebrew language ability and course placement. Please email ozussman@judnea.umass.edu.


Summary of Requirements for the Major

Minimum total # or range of credits required: 50

  • No course with a Pass grade can be accepted for major credit.
  • Refer to the Major page located in the left menu bar to learn more

Is there a minor?
Yes – Minors in Judaic Studies and Hebrew are available! Refer to the Minor page located in the left menu bar to learn more

For further information, contact:
Office Manager
744 Herter Hall
545-2550
department email: jne@judnea.umass.edu