BS in Jewish Education
The Bachelor of Science in Jewish Education is designed to prepare students to become professional educators across the Jewish educational spectrum. The program is focused on equipping Orthodox Jewish women with the pedagogic, curriculum development, classroom management, Jewish content, and leadership skills necessary to be successful in the field. The coursework trains women to become effective Jewish educational leaders who successfully serve, perpetuate, and enrich the Jewish community. The Bachelor of Science in Jewish Education provides a solid foundation in education along with a liberal arts education and high-level Jewish studies coursework.
Program Goals
Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Jewish Education, graduates will demonstrate the ability to:
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Utilize effective oral and written communication, quantitative, technology, and research skills in the classroom and broader school community.
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Apply research-based teaching strategies, instructional techniques, and curriculum design in ways that strengthen the learning and religious development of Jewish students.
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Employ critical and analytical thinking in addressing the diverse needs of learners in Jewish educational and communal settings.
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Exhibit a level of Jewish literacy required to serve as teachers in a Jewish education setting.
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Utilize Jewish ethics and values to serve as a role model and mentor for students.
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Serve as an educator, professional, and leader in ways that strengthen and enrich students, families, communities, and society.
Degree Requirements
The program of study for the Bachelor of Science in Jewish Education consists of 120 credits as follows:
General Education Requirements 60 credits
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Requires completion of COM 101 and PSY 280 within the general education requirements
Fundamentals of Communication COM 101 (3 credits) Introduces the principles of effective communication and public speaking. Focuses on processes for constructing an argument, effectively transmitting information, and speaking with confidence. Develops all aspects of delivery, both in formal speeches and interpersonal communication. Prerequisite(s): None
Human Growth and Development PSY 280 (3 credits) Provides students with a broad knowledge and understanding of the field of developmental psychology. Emphasizes major theories, perspectives, and associated research as they relate to the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial aspects of development from conception through the end of life. Examines typical growth and development patterns, as well as factors that lead to disruption and change in those patterns. Students will develop insight into the factors that make people the way they are and how to support healthy human growth and development. Prerequisite(s) or Corequisite(s): PSY 101(Introduction to Psychology)
Major Requirements 36 Credits
Requires 18 credits in education from the following:
Foundations of Teaching and Learning EDU 101 (3 credits) Introduces the teaching profession and the important elements of effective teaching. Explores historical foundations and contemporary trends in education, educational philosophy. Covers concepts such as curricular methods and patterns, and educational theories such as multiple intelligences (Armstrong), brain-based learning (Caine and Caine), and dimensions of learning (Marzanno). Presents required components of effective lesson planning, including the development of effective learning objectives and selection of instructional strategies. Discusses contemporary challenges in education and expectations with regards to professionalism and the role of the teacher. Requires participation and observation of an actual classroom. Prerequisite(s): None
Instructional Design EDU 320 (3 credits) Emphasizes the use of formative, summative, and non-traditional assessments in the classroom. Introduces the principles of curriculum design that align learning objectives, instructional strategies, and assessment strategies. Focuses on the use of authentic assessment to evaluate student mastery. Topics also include assuring inclusion of special needs students in curriculum planning and using effective communication techniques with parents, support systems, and the learning community. Prerequisite(s): EDU 101 (Foundations of Teaching and Learning)
Classroom Techniques and Management EDU 360 (3 credits) Introduces strategies for developing and maintaining effective classroom management. Focuses on the essential components of classroom management, including classroom structure, limit-setting, responsibility training, and back-up systems. Intended for students interested in teaching. Prerequisite(s): None
Student Teaching EDU 490 (3 credits) Provides a clinical experience that exposes students to all dimensions of teaching and learning. Requires a 15-week school placement where students apply knowledge and skills in a K-12 learning environment. Affords direct experience in delivering instruction and managing a classroom under the guidance of a mentor teacher. Prerequisite(s): EDU 101 (Foundations of Teaching and Learning) or EDU 270 (Education: Theory and Practice) or equivalent
Psychological Foundations of Education PSY 230(3 credits) Studies the psychological foundations of learning, memory and creativity, as related to educational processes. Emphasizes characterization of educational approaches in the context of important physical, cognitive, and motivational variables. Surveys relevant scientific research and relates research findings to practical applications within and beyond the classroom. Addresses complex topics such as standardized tests, bilingual populations, and the influences of home and community attitudes towards learning and education. Prerequisite(s) or Corequisite(s): PSY 101(Introduction to Psychology)
Survey of Exceptional Children PSY 383 (3 credits) Introduces the concepts and principles of special education, and the academic, behavioral, and physical disabilities practitioners may encounter in the field. Discusses the construction and implementation of Individual Education Programs (IEPs). Covers basic diagnostic procedures, interventions, and strategies for the inclusive classroom. Prerequisite(s): PSY 101 (Introduction to Psychology)
Requires 3 credits in education from the following:
Integrating Technology in the Classroom EDU 265 (3 credits) Introduces the theories and techniques of educational technology. Discuses use of technology to improve learning, motivation, engagement, assessment, self-assessment, and classroom management in traditional classrooms, hybrid classrooms, and distance learning environments. Prerequisite(s) or Corequisite(s): EDU 101 (Foundations of Teaching and Learning)
Education: Theory and Practice EDU 270 (3 credits) Surveys the basic theories of learning and teaching and the application of theory to educational environments. Examines the adaptation of the concepts of behavioral, cognitive, and constructivist learning theories to teaching and managing an effective learning environment. Emphasizes the principles of motivation, classroom management, and assessment of student performance. Prerequisite(s): None
Education Electives:
Topics in Jewish Education EDU 345 (3 credits) Discusses how to teach students to understand and analyze Biblical and Rabbinic literature and concepts. Explores how educators can use text study to teach values, critical thinking, and moral and personal development. Introduces experiential tools that can be used by educators with their students to apply course content to their personal lives. Presents important elements of effective teaching of Biblical, Rabbinic and Judaic content. Discusses contemporary challenges in Jewish education and expectations with regards to professionalism and the role of the teacher. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (EDU 345A and EDU 345B). May be taken multiple times for credits as topics covered varies by course offering. Prerequisite(s): None
Field Experience in Education EDU 390 (3 credits) A school-based involvement in the educational process for six to eight hours per week. Students work with children in the classroom in a variety of ways that include classroom observations, small group teaching, co-teaching and planning, and independent teaching. Problems and techniques of classroom instruction and classroom management are experienced in a realistic setting & are discussed in a bi-weekly seminar. Prerequisite(s) or Corequisite(s): EDU 101 (Foundations of Teaching and Learning) and sophomore standing in Jewish education major or minor
Independent Study in Education EDU 406 (3 credits) Provides an opportunity to develop advanced knowledge in the field of education and examine an area of interest related to education and/or delivery of educational programs. May involve the completion of independent research or an in-depth project related to the field of education. Enrollment requires development of a written independent study proposal and pre-approval by the Academic Dean. Limited to a maximum of 6 credits over the course of the degree. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing in the Education major or minor; minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 in the major or minor
Differentiated Instruction EDU 415 (3 credits) Introduces the principles of differentiated instruction, including reading across the curriculum, implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) in the general education classroom, and teaching through different modalities. Focuses on effective co-teaching, universal design for learning, formative and summative assessment, and response to intervention/multi-tiered systems of support. Credit given for PSY 381 or EDU 415 Prerequisite(s): PSY 383 (Survey of Exceptional Children)
Practicum in Jewish Education I EDU 450 (3 credits) Supervised professional experience in the field. Student will be paired with a mentor who will advise the student throughout the practicum. The student will engage in self-reflection and self-evaluation. The practicum is designed to create a community of practice and will include group meetings and peer observation. Prerequisite(s) or Corequisite(s): EDU 101 (Foundations of Teaching and Learning) or equivalent
Practicum in Jewish Education II EDU 451 (3 credits) Continues the supervised classroom experience for practical application and implementation of educational theories and methods for teaching Jewish studies. Topics include: lesson planning, curriculum design and implementation, classroom management, communication skills. Prerequisite(s): EDU 450 (Practicum in Jewish Education I)
Internship in Education EDU 498 (1-3 credits) Provides opportunity for exploration of the field of education in a professional setting. Allows students to integrate theory and practice and engage in a team-based work environment. Requires completion of 45-135 clock hours under the supervision of an education professional. Requires a special application. Prerequisite(s): Jewish education major or education minor with junior standing or higher
Internship in Special Education EDU 499 (1-3 credits) Provides opportunity for exploration of the field of special education in a professional setting. Allows students to integrate theory and practice and engage in a team-based work environment. Requires completion of 45-135 clock hours under the supervision of a special education professional. Requires a special application. Prerequisite(s): Jewish education major or education minor with junior standing or higher
Requires 15 credits in Jewish studies that include the following:
A minimum of 3 credits in Bible from the following:
Textual Studies in Bible BIB 102 (3 credits) Focuses on building Jewish studies text analysis skills. Utilizes the chavrusa method of study, where students work in pairs and use guided study sheets to decode texts and generate questions. Explores the text thematically, using relevant commentaries in search of answers to textual and philosophical difficulties. Discusses an analysis of the text’s relevance to contemporary Jewish life. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (BIB 102A and BIB 102B). Prerequisite(s): None
Living Tehillim in Challenging Times BIB 325 (3 credits) Discusses the various songs of Tehillim and explores the psychological, theological, and historical elements that are found in each individual psalm/song. Explores how to connect to the diversity of raw emotions portrayed in the text and discover the therapeutic function and tools in the psalm. Discusses the psychological and theological elements of each song and how to integrate them into one’s personal and professional life. Delves into the mystical Hebrew alphabet to see the significance of King David’s alphabetizing the verses of his longest psalm, #119.
Megillas Shir HaShirim BIB 360 (3 credits) Explores the literal meaning and the metaphorical interpretations of the Megillah. Focuses largely on the commentary of the Alshich, who views the Megillah as essential to appreciating the relationship between Hashem and the Jewish people. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (BIB 360A and BIB 360B). Prerequisite(s): Completion of 12 credits of Jewish studies or permission of the Executive Dean/Menaheles
Megillas Esther BIB 375 (3 credits) Explores Megillas Esther through the lens of Gemaros, Midrashim, classical meforshim, and contemporary Baalei Mussar. Emphasizes analysis of Megilas Esther as the “Handbook of Galus” for Klal Yisroel. Connects the Halachos of Purim to the text of the Megilla. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (BIB 375A and BIB 375B). Prerequisite(s): None
Unique Women in Tanach BIB 410 (3 credits) Focuses on lesser known women in Tanach. Uses text analysis to explore all the סוגיות in תנ''ך (topics in the Bible) in which these women are found. Analyzes the lives of the women through classical and contemporary מפרשים to gain a deeper understanding of the פנימיות (essence) of these women. Evaluates how theirנסיונות (trials) and achievements impacted their own lives and the future of כלל ישראל (the Jewish people). May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (JST 410A and JST 410B. Prerequisite(s): Completion of 12 credits of Jewish studies or permission of the Executive Dean/Menaheles
Biblical Women: Women of the Household of Dovid HaMelech (3 credits) BIB 412 (3 credits) Focuses on the prominent women in the house of Dovid HaMelech. Examines their contributions to the development of Malchus Bais Doviid, from its inception through the future Geulah 73 (redemption). Uses text analysis to explore all the Sugiyos (sections) in Tanach (topics in the Bible) in which these women are found. Analyzes the lives of the women through classical and contemporary Meforshim (commentaries) to gain a deeper understanding of the Penimiyos (essence) of these women. Evaluates how their Nisyonos (trials) and achievements impacted their own lives, the life of Dovid HaMelech, and the future of Klal Yisroel (the Jewish people). May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (BIB 412A and BIB 412B). Prerequisite(s): Completion of 12 credits of Jewish studies or permission of the Executive Dean/Menaheles
Roots of the Mitzvos BIB 415 (3 credits) Uncovers the depth and meaning behind various mitzvos through the lens of Chazal, Rishonim and Achronim. Studies the roots of the mitzvos to enhance our relationship with and performance of the mitzvos. Uses text analysis uncover rich themes, develop textual skills, and consider new ways of viewing familiar and unfamiliar mitzvos. Requires students to be active participants by asking questions, offering suggestions and utilizing the text to support their understanding. Course will be taught through class discussion, small group work and interactive activities. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (BIB 415A and BIB 415B). Prerequisite(s): None
Exile to Redemption: History of the Jews at the End of the First Temple Era BIB 420 (3 credits) Examines chapters in Sefer Yechezkel pre-Churban and post-Churban. Investigates numerous sources in Tanach, Torah Sh'baal Peh, Rishonim, and Achronim to illuminate the historical and social context of each nevuah. Emphasizes relevance to contemporary life. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (BIB 420A and BIB 420B). Credit given for BIB 420 or HIS 420 Prerequisite(s): None
A minimum of 3 credits in Jewish law from the following:
Jewish Law: Dietary Law JLW 331 (3 credits) Examines the laws of kashrus (dietary laws) using classical and contemporary sources. Explores how technology has impacted kashrus observance. Discusses practical laws relevant to the kosher kitchen. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (JLW 331A and JLW 331B). Formerly RAB 331 Jewish Law: Dietary Law Prerequisite(s): Completion of 12 credits of Jewish studies or permission of the Executive Dean/Menaheles
Jewish Law: Blessings JLW 332 (3 credits) Examines the concepts and different types of brachos (blessings). Covers the laws of brachos and their correct usage based on classical and contemporary sources. Investigates daily brachos, such as those said over food, as well as brachos related to mitzvos and special occasions. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (JLW 332A and JLW 332B). Formerly RAB 332 (Jewish Law: Blessings) Prerequisite(s): None
Business Ethics and Jewish Law JLW 337 (3 credits) Studies Jewish law as it relates to the world of commerce and business and its application to modern situations. Focuses on classical halachic literature, including Talmud and related commentaries. Explores the ethical principles that govern conduct in the world of commerce. Emphasis is placed on common ethical questions and the practical application of Jewish moral principles to the business world. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (JLW 337A and JLW 337B). Formerly RAB 337 (Jewish Law: Economics and Business Ethics) Credit given for JLW 337 or ETH 337 Prerequisite(s): Completion of 12 credits of Jewish studies or permission of the Executive Dean/Menaheles
Ethical Interpersonal Communication JLW 390 (3 credits) Studies the Jewish laws of interpersonal communication. Emphasizes the laws of speech, drawing from the Chofetz Chaim, Gemara, Medrashim, Rambam, Rabeinu Yona, and other Rishonim and Acharonim. Formerly JST 390 (Ethical Interpersonal Communication) Credit given for JLW 390 or ETH 390 Prerequisite(s): None
Women in the World JLW 415 (3 credits) Discusses the areas of Jewish law commonly encountered in the professional world. Examines laws relevant to a Jewish woman in the workplace. Explores the Jewish outlook towards interfacing with the secular world in various circumstances. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (JLW 415A and JLW 415B). Credit given for JLW 415 or JST 415 Prerequisite(s): Completion of 12 credits of Jewish studies or permission of the Executive Dean/Menaheles
Medical Ethics and Jewish Law JLW 466 (3 credits) Discusses the structure and development of Jewish ethics and halacha (law) connected to the fields of health and medicine. Explores the development of medical ethics and the evolution of halacha related to medicine. Covers the Jewish approach to health and healing and major ethical issues and debates that arise in the field of medicine. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (JLW 466A and JLW 466B). Formerly JST 466 (Judaism in Medicine: History, Ethics and Halacha) Credit given for JLW 466 or ETH 466 Prerequisite(s): Completion of 12 credits of Jewish studies or permission of the Executive Dean/Menaheles
A minimum of 3 credits in Jewish studies from the following:
Any JST, ETH, JLT, or JPH course; or
Jews and Christians in Renaissance Europe HIS 315 (3 credits) Explores the lives of Jews and Christians in Renaissance Europe with a focus on arenas of interaction and inclusion, as well as early modern modes of exclusion, isolation, and religious persecution. Studies religious life, economic and cultural change and development, women and family life, and Renaissance education. Introduces sources and methods of historical research, while fostering critical reading, analysis, and writing skills. Prerequisite(s): None
History of the Jewish Community in the Land of Israel HIS 337 (3 credits) Surveys Jewish history from Gaonic through early modern times and connections to the rise of Zionism and growth of Jewish communities in Israel. Discusses the origins of the modern Zionist movement within the context of ideological movements in 18th-20th century Europe. Covers the Old Yishuv, early Aliyah movements, and differing rabbinic responses to early Zionism. Focuses on the shift from life under the British mandate to the establishment of the State of Israel. Introduces key personalities in Jewish life in Palestine and Israel, forms of Jewish resistance, and early Arab resistance. Explores recent Israeli history and the Arab-Israeli conflict until the present. May be offered as two courses of 1.5 credit hour each (HIS 337A and HIS 337B). Prerequisite(s): None
Women in Jewish History and Culture HIS 340 (3 credits) Investigates the lives of Jewish women from early modern times until today and examines the influence of gender upon experiences. Focuses on the four major themes of women’s daily lives, women’s participation in the economy and public sphere, women’s religious lives, and women’s family lives. Introduces sources and methods of historical research, while fostering critical reading, thinking, and writing skills. Prerequisite(s): None
Free Electives 24 credits
The Bachelor of Science in Jewish Education requires a total of 36 credits in Jewish studies. The 21 credits in Jewish studies not completed within the major requirements may be completed as part of the humanities, general education elective or free elective requirements.
A minimum of 30 credits must be taken at WITS, of which at least 15 credits must be at the 300/400 level.
A minor in another discipline may be completed in conjunction with the Bachelor of Science in Jewish Education.