Hebrew Language and Literature

Overview

Programs in Hebrew language and literature teach people how Hebrew began and developed. Students study biblical Hebrew, modern Hebrew, and dialects such as Samaritan. Students also learn how to apply the knowledge to business and technology.

Hebrew language and literature programs include topics such as:

• Reading, writing, and speaking ancient Hebrew and modern Hebrew
• Jewish literature and culture (especially as it relates to Israel)
• Biblical studies
• Art
• Anthropology
• History
• Other languages, including Greek, Arabic, or Aramaic
• Dialects
• Folklore
• Linguistics

Concentrations

In Hebrew language and literature programs, students may be able to specialize in:

• Conversation
• Interpreting
• Literature
• Teaching
• Translation

Schools

A few colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degrees in Hebrew language and literature. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

A few universities offer graduate degrees in Hebrew language and literature. A master’s degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor’s degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master’s degree.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

• Biblical Language and Literature
• Jewish Studies
• Linguistics
• Near and Middle Eastern Studies
• Rabbinical and Talmudic Studies
• Second Language, General

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

• Interpreters and Translators
• University and College Teachers

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

• Ancient Civilizations
• Humanities
• Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies
• Political Science
• Second Language
• Western Civilization
• World Area Studies
• World Geography
• World History

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree, good grades, and good test scores. In addition, you must be able to demonstrate that you can speak, read, write, and understand Hebrew at an advanced level.

Additional requirements at some schools include:

• Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Academic writing sample

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

• Applied Phonetics
• Conversation and Composition
• Hebrew Literature and Poetry
• Linguistics
• Literary Studies
• Old Testament Culture and History
• Reading Skills
• Study in Hebrew and related dialects (beginning, intermediate, advanced)
• The Bible as Literature
• The Bible in Translation

Graduate Program Courses

Graduate programs in Hebrew language and literature typically require:

• Required courses
• Thesis (master's degree)
• Preliminary exams (doctoral degree only)
• Dissertation and dissertation defense (doctoral degree)

Things to Know

Many programs in Hebrew language and literature are part of religious or divinity schools, but not always. Many non-religious institutions offer courses or degrees in this subject. Colleges that do not have complete programs in Hebrew language and literature may offer elective courses as part of a major in interdisciplinary studies or liberal arts.

Students who major in Hebrew language and literature may be required or encouraged to spend some time living, working, and studying abroad. Most programs coordinate semester abroad or work internships. In most cases, you can participate in these after you have completed at least two years of language study.

At some schools, courses in Hebrew language and literature are offered through Jewish studies, Middle Eastern studies, Classics, or Biblical language and literature programs.

Some Hebrew language and literature programs encourage you to also study Greek or Arabic.

Schools

No information available.