Program areas at Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership
Master of arts in Jewish professional studies (majps): the majps program is a model of Learning and training for Jewish professionals, offering core courses in judaica topics that are most relevant to Jewish communal life today, essential professional training, as well as individualized study to advance students' personal and professional interests. The program is run on a cohort basis, offering the opportunity for students from a wide range of institutional and professional backgrounds to network and learn from one another and create a vibrant community of practice.
Judaica degree programs (masters and doctoral): the masters-level programs in Jewish studies and Jewish education are sequenced, content specific, coherent curricula that seek to communicate to students the evolving structure and nature of Jewish civilization, the fundamental religious and intellectual outlook of this civilization, thecontributions of Jewish civilization to human civilization and the inspiration it can provide for students to lead a life that embraces and continues to explore the Jewish heritage. Doctoral-level programs are designed for Jewish professionals seeking increased understanding of the Jewish experience and academic grounding in Jewish thought and practice.
Center for Jewish Leadership: rooted in the belief that great Jewish communities need great leaders, the mission of the center for Jewish Leadership (cjl) is to transform Jewish life by cultivating innovative approaches to Leadership and enhancing the abilities of Jewish professionals and lay leaders. Programs offered through the cjl provide participants with a unique and holistic approach to Jewish Leadership that seamlessly integrates deeper understanding of Jewish life, culture, and history with insights and best practices from the worlds of business and nonprofit Leadership. Center offerings include symposia, professional workshops and masterclasses, a certificate in Jewish Leadership (offered with northwestern university), and the ma in Jewish professional studies.