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The M.A. in Near Eastern and Judaic Studies

Students pursuing the Brandeis Master of Arts in Near Eastern and Judaic Studies are able to enhance opportunities to work in a wide range of settings, including schools, museums and communal organizations as well as the diplomatic corps. It may also serve as a stepping stone to a professional degree or the Ph.D.

Requirements

Ordinarily, two years of full-time residence are required at the normal course rate of seven courses each academic year.

At least eight of the 14 required courses must be offered by members of the Near Eastern and Judaic Studies department. Students may not include courses taken to prepare for the M.A. language examination (HBRW 102 and below, or ARBC 40 and below) among these eight courses, but may include them among the required 14 courses.

Students must obtain prior written approval from the M.A. advisor before taking courses outside of Near Eastern and Judaic Studies.

Students who enter with graduate credit from other recognized institutions may apply for transfer credit for up to four courses, or with prior written approval of the M.A. advisor, candidates may receive transfer credit for up to four courses for study at a university abroad.

Proficiency must be demonstrated in biblical or modern Hebrew or Arabic.

Language courses taught outside of NEJS may not be applied toward the required courses without advanced written permission of the advisor.

All candidates for the M.A. degree are required to complete a culminating assignment, by choosing to write a thesis, complete a significant final project, or take and pass an oral exam.