Mission Statement
Jewish Studies teaches academic perspectives on Jewish history and on the diversity of Jewish experience. Though CSUN students are our primary responsibility, we also provide knowledge and resources to others on campus and to the public at large. The goal of Jewish Studies is to help people understand the past and respond to important contemporary issues that affect their daily lives, contributing to a more thoughtful and compassionate society for all.
Jewish Studies courses include scholarly, experiential and practical learning that prepares students for the demands of the workplace and civil society. Students taking Jewish Studies courses and interacting with Jewish Studies faculty learn how Jews and Judaism are both part of and distinct from the cultures that surround them, and they see how the experiences of Jews over time and in different places parallel and diverge from those of other minority groups.
Academic Advisement
Contact Program Director Jennifer Thompson at (818) 677-2963 or jennifer.a.thompson@csun.edu to schedule an appointment.
Careers
The Jewish Studies major and minor are particularly suitable for those who are preparing to enter the fields of education, administration, psychology or counseling. Completion of the minor or major will be advantageous for acceptance to graduate schools that offer advanced academic training (Ph.D. programs in Jewish Studies and allied areas), as well as for acceptance to graduate programs offering professional degrees necessary for advanced positions in Jewish education, social-welfare agencies and administration. Completion of the major or minor will offer a hiring advantage for positions in the Jewish community in the areas of teaching, administration and social welfare.
Scholarships and Awards
- Jewish Studies Major and Minor Awards
- Jewish Studies Scholarships (through Financial Aid)
- Internship Stipends for Nonprofit Internship in the Jewish Community
- Summer Trip Scholarships
Program Committee
- Jeffrey Auerbach (History)
- Shira Brown (Gender and Women’s Studies, Women’s Research and Resource Center)
- Jennifer Thompson, Director (Jewish Studies)
Contact
Jewish Studies
Director: Jennifer Thompson
Office of Interdisciplinary Studies
Sierra Tower (ST) 807
(818) 677-6762