The Jewish Studies Program at Colby acquaints students with the breadth of Jewish history, religion, and culture. This interdisciplinary program draws on courses from religious studies, history, English, government, and other fields. Because Hebrew has been the primary language for Jewish expression in Israel and in the Diaspora, students are encouraged to acquire a working knowledge of the Hebrew language. In addition to the program’s academic curriculum, Jewish studies sponsors college events such as the annual Berger Lecture on the Holocaust; the Lipman Lecture, which explores subjects as diverse as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Jews in rock-and-roll, and has featured such notables as Elie Wiesel; and Hillel activities, informal academic seminars, and Jewish Studies dinners and socials. The program features a warm and close community of faculty and students, as well as a rigorous and lively course of study.
Although no major is offered at this time, students may elect a minor in Jewish studies that combines well with many of the major programs offered by the College, and interested students may apply for an Independent Major in Jewish studies. The minor requires completion of a minimum of six courses: two core courses in “Judaism and Its History” and four other courses approved for the minor.