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Los Angeles Fall 2006 and Spring 2007 Courses
Please note that courses are subject to change. For more information on this,
please contact Carol Sofer at 800-899-0925 ext 4220 or email csofer@huc.edu.
Spring 2007 Schedule of Classes (FlashPaper format)
Spring 2007 Undergraduate Courses for USC Students (FlashPaper format)
The Los Angeles Student Registration Booklet (PDF format)
The Los Angeles Student Handbook & Policies (PDF format)
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HaKesher, the LA Student Association, is raising money for student programming through the Amazon Associates Program. When purchasing from Amazon, please click on the link below to have a portion of your spending go towards valuable student-run projects. Contact studentsvcs@huc.edu with questions.
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For an archive of previous year's course listings click here
| A&L 100 |
BIBLICAL PROTAGONISTS THROUGH AN ANCIENT LENS (4) F
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Joshua Holo
When reading ancient literature, one often encounters a tale dominated by the daring acts, obstacles, deceptions and successes of a complex and remarkable character - whether divine or human. Focusing primarily on the protagonists found in the Hebrew Bible and how those characters fit a larger heroic persona, this course examines a variety of female and male characters, analyzing their portrayals in ancient narratives, what acts define their status as heroes/heroines, how other characters perceive of them and finally, their influence on human affairs. |
| A&L 100 |
LANGUAGE AND IDENTITY AMONG "HYPHENATED"AMERICANS (4) F
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Sarah Benor
In the multicultural society of the United States, people have multiple allegiances. In this class, the connection between language and identity is explored through novels, short stories, poetry, essays, film and music. In addition, the relationships between race/ethnicity and other social dimensions are examined. |
| A&L 100 |
READING SCRIPTURE AS SKEPTIC AND BELIEVER (4) F
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Reuven Firestone
This course will examine some of the ways through which the scriptures of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam establish paradigms of interpretation. We will read sections of each scriptural tradition from the "inside" — that is, as if we are believers in the religious system that the Scripture represents, and also from the "outside" — as critical observers of a religious system through its classic literature. This methodology will enable the student to gain a deep appreciation for different approaches to reading Scripture at the same time that she will learn how Scriptures "read" the world. |
| A&L 100 |
PRESCRIPTIONS FOR FAITH (4) F
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Yaffa Weisman
This course examines, through reading and interpretation of primary texts, the historical and theological developments of Judaism during the Greco-Roman period, the emergence of Christianity and the impact of these developments upon Western civilization. |
| A&L 100 |
REPRESENTING THE HOLOCAUST (4) S
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Sharon Gillerman
Focusing on questions of cultural and national identity and contemporary debates over historical methodology, this course explores the distinctive and often conflicting memories of the Holocaust produced in post-World War II America, Germany and France. |
| A&L 100 |
THE JEW IN AMERICAN FICTION (4) S
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Bruce Phillips
Jews have tried to explain themselves to other Jews and a wider audience through fiction. This course employs Jewish and non-Jewish writers and film-makers to understand the Jews' place in American society from the end of the 19th century to the end of the 20th century. |
| A&L 100 |
JERUSALEM IN JEWISH, CHRISTIAN AND MUSLIM LITERATURE (4) S
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Adam Rubin
This course introduces the student to the image of Jerusalem as a holy city in Jewish, Christian and Muslim literature. The literature of the three religious communities played a central role in transmitting the image of Jerusalem as the birthplace of Judaism and Christianity, and a holy city for Islam as well. The goal of pilgrimage and cause of Crusade themes, such as "Heavenly and Earthly Jerusalem" and "Jerusalem as the Center of the World," infused many aspects of Western Culture beyond the borders of the Land of Israel.
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| A&L 100 |
LITERATURE OF RESISTANCE (4) S
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Yaffa Weisman
This course explores literary expressions of resistance to subjugation and oppression in a variety of societies from antiquity to modernity. Students read texts reflecting instances of spiritual, political, military and cultural resistance, addressing issues such as: How does a culture react to oppression? What literary products are created in the process? Can literature be an act of resistance? What modes of resistance are suggested in such literature? |
BIB 401
BIB 402
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BIBLE 1 (1.5) Q3
BIBLE 2 (1.5) Q4
Ms. Beatrice Wallins Lawrence
These courses are about learning how to cultivate the skills needed for genuinely "hearing" the Torah. It explores familiar texts with special emphasis on developing critical tools of analysis, examining the text and context of the Torah -- approaching it through historical criticism, modern literary analysis, and traditional Jewish perspectives. The focus is on Genesis and Deuteronomy but includes other selected portions from the Torah. |
BIB 403
BIB 404
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BIBLE 3 (1.5) Q1
BIBLE 4 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Tamara Eskenazi
The prophets of Ancient Israel have stirred the hearts and minds of ancient hearers and modern readers. In this course, students "meet" these prophets and seek to know prophetic literature intimately through close reading of prophetic writings and by developing critical tools and skills that can help discern their meanings. The class focuses on the so-called "classical prophets," i.e., latter prophets. |
BIB 405
BIB 406
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BIBLE 5 (1.5) Q3
BIBLE 6 (1.5) Q4
Ms. Beatrice Wallins Lawrence
This course, focusing on Ketuvim, places special emphasis on the Megillot. Students read these Biblical texts by utilizing several distinct methodologies. The purpose is to hear and understand these texts in their own context as well as ours. In addition to the standard historical and literary approaches, the course explores other influential perspectives such as rabbinic exegesis, comparative religion and literature, canonical criticism and feminist criticism, etc. |
BIB 507
BIB 508
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JOB 1 (1.5) Q1
JOB 2 (1.5) Q2
Ms. Beatrice Wallins Lawrence
The book of Job is difficult to read: it asks why bad things happen to good people, and questions God's role in the unfolding of tragic events, and is subsequently a poignant text for modern Jews. In this course, students engage in close reading of the Book of Job, emphasizing literary, historical and theological questions. In addition, the class examines the place of Job in modern Jewish thought, especially post-Holocaust theology. |
BIB 509
BIB 510
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RETURN AND RECONSTRUCTION-STUDIES IN EZRA-NEHEMIAH 1 (1.5) Q1
RETURN AND RECONSTRUCTION-STUDIES IN EZRA-NEHEMIAH 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Tamara Eskenazi
The course is a study of the pivotal postexilic period (538-333 BCE) with special emphasis on Ezra-Nehemiah. Recognizing that the postexilic period marks the transformation of Judaism into a religion of the book, students study the Biblical book that depicts that radical change and explores the social, economic and religious issues it discloses. In addition, the class surveys the postexilic prophets as well as extra-Biblical sources from this period. |
| CS 433 |
INTRODUCTION TO JEWISH COMMUNITY RELATIONS (3) F
Dr. Steven Windmueller
Have you ever considered how anti-Semitism is measured? Or how Jewish public policy is constructed around church-state issues? This course explores the tools and strategies used in community and political organizing developed by the Jewish community. It examines the primary social and public policy questions that shape Jewish life. Special attention is given to Israel advocacy, inter-religious relations, global anti-Semitism and public policy positions in such areas as health care, education and the environment. In addition, the class explores Jewish voting practices, political giving and social activism. |
| CS 531 |
FUNDRAISING AND FINANCIAL RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (3) S
Ms. Marla Abraham
Practice-oriented seminar on fundraising and financial resource development for nonprofit Jewish organizations. Various theoretical frameworks and practical analysis are discussed. Special emphasis is placed on planning, motivation, relationships, goal- setting, training, and the variety of modern techniques employed in the philanthropic world. Course features experimental elements, case study analysis, and interaction with a variety of professionals and lay leaders from different organizational settings. |
CS 541 A/B
CS 542 A/B |
A/B SUPERVISED FIELDWORK (3) F, S
(for 1st year double master's students)
A/B SUPERVISED FIELDWORK (4) F, S
(for single master's students and 2nd year double master's students, except Social Work)
Ms. Marla Abraham
Required and assigned fieldwork experience for all M.A. students. *3 units for 1st year double master's students. *4 units for single master and 2nd year double masters students. Note: All 1st year students register for field instruction with HUC-JIR (CS 541A/B). Second year social work students register for field instruction with USC (SOWK 686A/B). All other second year students register for field placement with HUC (CS 542A/B). |
| CS 545 A/B |
FIELD PRACTICUM (1) F, S
Ms. Marla Abraham
This unique course is designed to afford communal service students an opportunity to discuss with their peers and their instructor specific problems and experiences they have encountered in their field placements. The practicum also allows the instructor to pose social work principles and Jewish ethical considerations that are associated with community and clinical work. Students have maximum opportunity to secure answers to dilemmas and concerns confronting them in a professional setting. |
| CS 562 |
RESEARCH METHODS IN CONTEMPORARY JEWRY (3) S
Dr. Sarah Benor
This class is designed to expose students to qualitative and quantitative approaches to social science research. Students are expected to become critical consumers of research on contemporary American Jews and to obtain the skills and experience necessary to conduct such research. This class is an opportunity for students to begin research for their masters thesis or project. |
| CS 650 |
SYNAGOGUE MANAGEMENT (3) S
Mr. Stephen Breuer
A course devoted to developing the skills and techniques for managing the contemporary synagogue, embracing the human dimensions of governance and communication and fiscal and physical dimensions of resource management and building supervision. Specific issues include: working with the board, attracting and retaining members, sound fiscal practices and personnel policies. |
| CS 900B |
THESIS (3) F, S
The preparation of a study in the field of Jewish communal service. |
HEB 403 A/B/C
HEB 404 A/B/C
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HEBREW LANGUAGE 1 (1.5) Q1
HEBREW LANGUAGE 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Deborah Steinhart
Ms. Ruth Artman-Breindler
Ms. Luisa Latham
The Hebrew language course is a review of one of three Hebrew modalities: Biblical, rabbinic, contemporary. Students first are examined for placement purposes, and then placed in specific sections according to their current level of listening, oral, reading and writing proficiencies in Biblical, rabbinic and contemporary Hebrew(s). This course prepares students for further work at the College-Institute in text and literary genre. |
HEB 405
HEB 406
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MODERN HEBREW LITERATURE 1 (1.5) Q3
MODERN HEBREW LITERATURE 2 (1.5) Q4
Dr. William Cutter
Hebrew Literature and Modern National Expression. This course examines poetic models since Bialik and includes readings in selected examples of prose. It is a continuation of the fall quadmesters' study of Hebrew language and exposes students to linguistic features of sophisticated modern poetry, aspects of contemporary hermeneutic theory; and struggles on behalf of and in "argument with" Zionist mythologies. |
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HEB 450
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ARAMAIC (1.5) Pre-quad Intensive
Dr. Dvora Weisberg
This intensive is designed to introduce students to basic grammar, syntax and vocabulary of Babylonian Jewish Aramaic. Students learn grammar inductively by analyzing selected talmudic passages. The knowledge acquired in this course is reinforced in Talmud 1. |
HEB 503
HEB 504
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MODERN POETIC VERSIONS OF BIBLICAL THEMES 1 (1.5) Q1
MODERN POETIC VERSIONS OF BIBLICAL THEMES 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. William Cutter
Poetic versions of Biblical themes: women, war, and spirit in the poetry of the modern secular revival. Yehuda Amichai, Dahlia Ravikovitch, Hayim Gouri, and Yona Wolloch, and Hava Pinchas Cohen are featured, but newer young poets are included. The course deals with different approaches to the core text of the Jewish tradition, and how both secular and religious Israelis have fashioned archetypes into contemporary discourse. |
HIS 401
HIS 402
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HISTORY 1 (1.5) Q1
HISTORY 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Adam Rubin
Introduction to Jewish History/Ancient Jewish History (through 70 CE)
Beginning with a comparison of religious notions of memory with modern approaches to history, students apply critical historical scholarship methods to the ancient Jewish past, from Israelite origins to the destruction of the Second Temple. The course examines the pre-history of Israel in cultural context, theories of the origins of the Jewish people, and the historicity of early Biblical narratives. Key scholarly issues of the First and Second Temple periods are explored, including the Israelite Monarchy, monotheism, Israel's religious life during the Babylonian exile and reconstruction, and the composition and redaction of the Torah and later Biblical texts. Other topics include Greco-Roman thought's influence Judaism's development, Diaspora communal life, messianic activism, sectarianism, and early roots of rabbinic Judaism and early Christianity. |
HIS 403
HIS 404
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HISTORY 3 (1.5) Q3
HISTORY 4 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Reuven Firestone
Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages (70-1492)
A survey of Medieval Jewish history, beginning with the rise of Early Christianity and Rabbinic Judaism, the course proceeds to the early Islamic period of the 7th-12th centuries, examining phenomena such as Karaism, Islam in a Christian/Jewish/Pagan environment, and the status of Jews and other religious minorities under the rule of Islam. The course also covers the history of Jewish life in the Christian European world, ending with the expulsion of the Jews and Muslims from Spain at the end of the 15th c. Special attention is paid to the study of economic, social, cultural, religious and intellectual trends throughout. |
HIS 405
HIS 406
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HISTORY 5 (1.5) Q1
HISTORY 6 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Adam Rubin
Modern Jewish History (1492-1948)
This course explores historical interpretations of the early modern and modern Jewish past, focusing on Jewish culture, society, and politics from the expulsion from Spain in 1492 through the Holocaust and establishment of Israel. Themes and events addressed include creation of the Sephardic Diaspora, sixteenth century mysticism, messianic movement, creation of ghettoes, Hasidism, and the beginnings of enlightenment and emancipation in Western Europe. With an emphasis on assimilation and acculturation in the modern period, the course explores the impact of the French Revolution, changes in traditional communal structure, religious responses to modernity and emergence of Jewish historical scholarship, and the centrality of gender for understanding emancipation, modern anti-Semitism, and the transformation of modern Jewish identities. |
HIS 407
HIS 408
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HISTORY 7 (1.5) Q3
HISTORY 8 (1.5) Q4
Dr. David Kaufman
American Jewish History/Contemporary Studies, including Reform Judaism
An introduction to the study of the American Jewish experience. The first part of the course is a survey of American Jewish history, tracing the development of American Jewry from its colonial beginnings through successive waves of immigration and adjustment. Part two focuses on the history and structure of American Judaism, with special attention to the Reform movement. The final third of the course is a unit in contemporary American Jewish studies, introducing students to the social scientific analysis of Jewish community and culture. |
HIS 502
HIS 503
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TWO PEOPLES, ONE LAND: ISRAELIS AND PALESTINIANS 1 (1.5) Q3
TWO PEOPLES, ONE LAND: ISRAELIS AND PALESTINIANS 2 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Adam Rubin
This seminar explores the century-long conflict between Jews and Palestinian Arabs in the Land of Israel/Palestine, from its earliest origins to the recent "Second Intifada." In addition to surveying the historical development of the conflict, students examine each side's religious, historical, and political claims to the Land of Israel/Palestine, exploring how the histories of each have been influenced by the presence and competing claims of the other. |
HIS 506
HIS 507
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THE AMERICAN JEWISH COMMUNITY 1 (1.5) Q3
THE AMERICAN JEWISH COMMUNITY 2 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Steven Windmueller
This course introduces students to a richer understanding of the foundations of the contemporary American Jewish community. Using Los Angeles as a case study, this course seeks to unlock the core political, social and religious roots related to building and maintaining communal systems. Through interactive discussions, field visits, guest presentations, and assigned readings, students examine models of community organizing, the development of American Jewish institutions, and ideas of communal responsibility. |
HIS 508
HIS 509
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AMERICAN JEWISH LIFE IN THE 21ST CENTURY 1 (1.5) Q1
AMERICAN JEWISH LIFE IN THE 21ST CENTURY 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Bruce Phillips
The purpose of this course is to familiarize students with the sociological trends that impact Jewish life, with an emphasis on the ongoing changes taking place within the American Jewish population. Students are introduced to the sociological understanding of American Jews as conceptual system. Methodologically, students learn how to read demographic and quantitative research studies and assess the evidence for what they read and hear about American Jewry. |
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HIS 510
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JEWISH LANGUAGES PAST AND PRESENT (1.5) Q3
Dr. Sarah Benor
Around the world, wherever Jews have lived, they have distinguished themselves linguistically from their non-Jewish neighbors. They have spoken languages as diverse as Arabic, Spanish, Persian, and English and infused them with distinctly Jewish features, such as Hebrew and Aramaic words and elements of other Jewish languages. This class explores the processes of alignment and distinction that have engendered Jewish language varieties throughout the history of the Diaspora. |
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HIS 511
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A BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO YIDDISH (1.5) Q4
Dr. Sarah Benor
A beginning language course in Yiddish, the language of the majority of Ashkenazic Jews throughout their history. As students learn to speak, sing, read, and write in Yiddish, they learn about Ashkenazic culture, Yiddish dialects, the history of the Yiddish language, and contemporary Yiddish speakers. |
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JS 100g
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JEWISH HISTORY (4) F, S
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. David Kaufman
Major ideas, personalities, and movements in Jewish history from antiquity to the present in light of the interaction of Jews with the general culture. |
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JS 120
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HEBREW I (4) F
(for undergraduate credit only)
Ms. Rivka Dori
Israeli Hebrew for novices with special emphasis on communication skills. |
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JS 150
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HEBREW II (4) S
(for undergraduate credit only)
Ms. Rivka Dori
Continuation of Hebrew I. |
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JS 211g
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THE HOLOCAUST (4) F, S
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. David Kaufman (Fall)
Dr. Sharon Gillerman (Spring)
Historical background and responses to the Holocaust, with special emphasis on ethical implications. |
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JS 214
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ZIONISM, ISRAEL AND THE MIDDLE EAST (4) F
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Steven Windmueller
Ideas about nationalism, Zionism and society-building; emphasis on self-definition in the Jewish state. |
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JS 220
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HEBREW III (4) F
(for undergraduate credit only)
Ms. Rivka Dori
Israeli Hebrew at the intermediate level: conversations and readings that inform the learners about the target culture as well as their own. |
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JS 315
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HEBREW IV (4) S
(for undergraduate credit only)
Ms. Rivka Dori
Readings of Biblical prose in Hebrew and discussions (in Israeli Hebrew and/or English) to understand some of the literary and theological value of such texts. |
| JS 520B |
MODERN JEWISH HISTORY (3) F
(for undergraduate credit only)
Faculty: TBA
This course explores the major political, economic and social events, issues and ideas that helped frame the Jewish experience over the past several hundred years. Emphasis is placed on the dynamic process of exchange and cross-fertilization between Jewish culture and the cultures in which Jews have lived. |
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JS 361
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SCRIPTURE AND POLEMIC IN JUDAISM, CHRISTIANITY AND ISLAM (4) S
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Joshua Holo
Origins of Scriptures and their polemical environments in earliest Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Scripture as polemic and legitimation, and cross-religious/cross-cultural interpretation and argument based on scriptural themes. |
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JS 381
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THE JEW IN AMERICAN SOCIETY (4) F
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Bruce Phillips
The changing sociological profile of the American Jew and changing organization of the American Jewish community as they developed over the 19th and 20th centuries. |
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JS 382
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JUDAISM AS AN AMERICAN RELIGION (4) S
(for USC undergraduate students only)
Dr. Bruce Phillips
The development of American expressions of Judaism as part of the American religious context, from the perspective of the social scientific study of religion. |
LIT 401
LIT 402
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LITURGY 1 (1.5) Q1
LITURGY 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Rachel Adler
An examination of Jewish liturgy in Hebrew including the comparison of traditional liturgical expression with contemporary liturgical development. Daily, Sabbath, Festival and High Holy Day liturgies are studied. |
LIT 501
LIT 502
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RECOVERING THE HIGH HOLY DAY MACHZOR 1 (1.5) Q3
RECOVERING THE HIGH HOLY DAY MACHZOR 2 (1.5) Q4
Rabbi Richard Levy
This course explores the process of writing and translating liturgy by focusing on selections from the Machzor for the High Holy Days. Students study in depth the meanings and theological implications of significant prayers in "traditional" settings and in Reform contexts, and try their hands at translating and (re-)interpreting them in ways that might recover their power to bring 21st century Reform Jews into the presence of the God whose awesome presence fills these days. Prerequisite: the introductory (second year) Liturgy class. |
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LIT 505
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THE SHABBAT SIDDUR (1.5) Summer
Rabbi Richard Levy
This course considers the characteristic features of the Kabbalat Shabbat/Maariv, Shacharit, Musaf, Minchah and Motzaei Shabbat/Havdalah services. Attention will be paid to differences in structure between Shabbat and Weekday services, and the traditional and Reform Siddur. Discussion of theological issues in selected prayers is a major feature of the course, as is the question of how prayer articulates and evokes the particular kedushah of Shabbat. Students give class presentations on the structure, meaning and innovative interpretations of selected prayers and write a paper, due a week after the course concludes. |
PHI 401
PHI 402
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JEWISH THOUGHT 1 (1.5) Q1
JEWISH THOUGHT 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Pinchas Giller
This course offers a broad survey of Jewish thought in the Middle Ages, focusing on classic texts and ideas from the 9th-16th centuries. General topics to be covered include: philosophical theology and metaphysics, ethics, allegorical and symbolic interpretation, pietism and Kabbalah. Class sessions are devoted to discussion of the ideas as seen through close reading of the Hebrew sources. |
PHI 403
PHI 404
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JEWISH THOUGHT 3 (1.5) Q3
JEWISH THOUGHT 4 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Rachel Adler
This class studies the development of Jewish thought from the 17th century to the present, following intellectual currents as they developed in Eastern Europe, Western Europe, and America. Topics covered include: the philosophy and theology of Spinoza; Hasidism and immanentist spirituality; Enlightenment philosophy; positive historical criticism; liberal Jewish religion; the religious thought of Buber, Rosenzweig, Heschel, Kook, and others. Issues include: halakhah and autonomy; the idea of the ‘chosen people'; feminism; Holocaust theology; spiritual and concrete Zionism. |
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PHI 450
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STUDY OF RELIGION (1.5) Pre-quad intensive
Dr. Rachel Adler
Although rabbinical study emphasizes what is distinctive and unique about Judaism, it is also possible to study Judaism as a religion that shares thematic, structural, and institutional similarities with other religions. This is the way sociologists, anthropologists and psychologists study religions. This intensive course examines some scholars' definitions of religion and similarities between religions. |
PHI 501
PHI 502
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SEMINAR IN JEWISH ETHICS 1 (1.5) Q1
SEMINAR IN JEWISH ETHICS 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Rachel Adler
A theoretical analysis of the sources and structure of Jewish ethics and the application of these sources to contemporary moral concerns. |
PDE 401
PDE 402
PDE 403
PDE 404
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RABBINIC PRACTICE 1 (1) Q1
RABBINIC PRACTICE 2 (1) Q2
RABBINIC PRACTICE 3 (1) Q3
RABBINIC PRACTICE 4 (1) Q4
Rabbi Don Goor
This seminar is designed to expose rabbinical students to a variety of issues that confront modern rabbis, to help them formulate and sharpen their own personal vision of the rabbinate, and to facilitate their gaining an understanding of some of the practicalities involved in the rabbi's work. |
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PDE 405
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SYNAGOGUE MUSIC 1 (1.5) Q1
Cantor Samuel Radwine
A study of Torah or Haftarah trope. |
PDE 406
PDE 407
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HOMILETICS 1 (1) Q1
HOMILETICS 2 (1) Q2
Rabbi Steven Leder
Rabbi Zoe Klein
Provides the student with skills in the writing of the classical textual sermon, the non-textual sermon, the life-cycle sermon and the occasional sermon. |
PDE 408
PDE 409
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SPEECH 1 (1) Q3
SPEECH 2 (1) Q4
Rabbi Jonathan Aaron
The purpose of this course is to sharpen public speaking, oral reading skills and writing as it pertains to spoken language. Using a variety of techniques, the student gains experience in presenting several different kinds of material. |
PDE 410
PDE 411
PDE 412
PDE 413
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PASTORAL COUNSELING 1 (1.5) Q1
PASTORAL COUNSELING 2 (1.5) Q2
PASTORAL COUNSELING 3 (1.5) Q3
PASTORAL COUNSELING 4 (1.5) Q4
Ms. Sally Weber
This course provides the rabbinical student with the tools for understanding his/her role as a rabbi and pastoral counselor and an integrated approach to pastoral counseling that incorporates both the psychosocial and spiritual assessment of the congregant/client. |
PDE 503
PDE 504
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ORDINATION SEMINAR 1 (1) Q1
ORDINATION SEMINAR 2 (1) Q2
Rabbi Richard Levy/Rabbi Don Goor
A discussion of issues facing rabbinic students upon ordination. The class considers financial matters, relations with other institutions in the Reform Movement, life cycle officiation, mentorship for rabbis, and other student concerns. |
PDE 505
PDE 506
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THE RABBI AND THE HOSPITAL 1 (1.5) Q3
THE RABBI AND THE HOSPITAL 2 (1.5) Q4
Dr. William Cutter
Hospital visitations with patients, counseling with their families; and an evaluation of classical Jewish and contemporary social science movements. Limited to six students with permission from Dr. Cutter. |
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PDE 507
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BUILDING POWER FOR SOCIAL CHANGE (1.5) F
Rabbi Richard Levy
The purpose of this seminar will be to familiarize students with the building blocks of broad-based institutional organizing and introduce future rabbis to innovative tools in the pursuit of social justice. This seminar covers the tools central to organizing, explores the foundations in Jewish text and tradition that provide the theological grounding for broad-based organizing, and introduces students to methods and practices of leadership development and congregational institutional change. |
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PDE 508
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CANTORIAL MUSIC STUDIES 1 (1.5) Q1
Evan Kent
In this course, students concentrate on musical selection and performance of music and liturgy from the Kabbalat Shabbat and Shabbat Maariv Service. This course acquaints students with a variety of melodies and motifs, choral and solo repertoire from the traditional and reform repertoire. Students are required to complete projects focusing on integrating music within the worship experience, with special attention paid to addressing needs of contemporary worship. Ability to read music is a prerequisite. Rabbinic students may take either PDE 508 and 509 or PDE 510 and 511 but only one semester (2 quads) for professional development credit. |
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PDE 509
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CANTORIAL MUSIC STUDIES 2 (1.5) Q2
Evan Kent
In this course, students concentrate on musical selection and performance of music and liturgy from the Kabbalat Shabbat and Shabbat Maariv Service. This course acquaints students with a variety of melodies and motifs, choral and solo repertoire from the traditional and reform repertoire. Students are required to complete projects focusing on integrating music within the worship experience, with special attention paid to addressing needs of contemporary worship. Ability to read music is a prerequisite. Rabbinic students may take either PDE 508 and 509 or PDE 510 and 511 but only one semester (2 quads) for professional development credit. |
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PDE 510
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CANTORIAL MUSIC STUDIES 3 (1.5) Q3
Evan Kent
In this course, students concentrate on musical selection and performance of music and liturgy from the Shabbat morning and the Shabbat Torah ritual. Students learn a variety of melodies and motifs, choral and solo repertoire from the traditional and reform repertoire. Students are required to complete projects focusing on integrating music within the worship experience, with special attention paid to addressing needs of contemporary worship. Ability to read music is a prerequisite. Rabbinic students may take either PDE 508 and 509 or PDE 510 and 511 but only one semester (2 quads) for professional development credit. |
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PDE 511
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CANTORIAL MUSIC STUDIES 4 (1.5) Q4
Evan Kent
In this course, students concentrate on musical selection and performance of music and liturgy from the Shabbat morning and the Shabbat Torah ritual. Students learn a variety of melodies and motifs, choral and solo repertoire from the traditional and reform repertoire. Students are required to complete projects focusing on integrating music within the worship experience, with special attention paid to addressing needs of contemporary worship. Ability to read music is a prerequisite. Rabbinic students may take either PDE 508 and 509 or PDE 510 and 511 but only one semester (2 quads) for professional development credit. |
EDU 401
EDU 402
EDU 403
EDU 404
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EDUCATION 1 (1) Q1
EDUCATION 2 (1) Q2
EDUCATION 3 (1) Q3
EDUCATION 4 (1) Q4
Prof. Sara Lee
Philosophical, sociological, and instructional concerns are explored as they relate to the Jewish educational setting. Topics include instructional processes and objectives, motivation, presentation of subject matter, participation techniques, group processes, classroom management and school structure. |
RAB 401
RAB 402
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MISHNAH 1 (1.5) Q1
MISHNAH 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Dvora Weisberg
This course introduces students to the literature and thought of the early rabbinic (tannaitic) period. Students explore some of the major legal and philosophical concerns of the early rabbinic movement through the study of Mishnah. Scholarly issues to be considered include: nature and redaction of the Mishnah, relationship between the Mishnah and the Tosefta, relationship between the Mishnah and legal midrash, and the oral transmission of rabbinic texts. |
RAB 403
RAB 404
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MIDRASH 1 (1.5) Q3
MIDRASH 2 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Aryeh Cohen
This course introduces students to exegetical midrash. The class examines the structure, language, history and theology of selected legal and aggadic midrashim. Also considered is the literary history of specific midrash collections. |
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RAB 405
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MIDRASH 3 (1.5) Q2
Faculty: TBA
An introduction to the history, structure, style, methods of exegesis and significant themes of the homiletic midrashim: Leviticus Rabba, Pesikta D'Rav Kahanah. |
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RAB 406
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COMMENTARIES 1 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Reuven Firestone
This course is an intensive introduction to the exegetical method of Rabbi Shelomo Yitzhaqi (Rashi). The purpose of the course is to learn the exegetical strategies of Rashi, his methods and to begin to get into the world of rabbinic and medieval Jewish Bible commentary. Students work entirely in Rashi script and should begin learning the system before the quadmester. |
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RAB 407
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COMMENTARIES 2 (1.5) Q1
Dr. Reuven Firestone
This course builds upon the skills and ideas developed in Commentaries 1, introducing students to some of the classic texts in the genre of medieval scriptural exegesis. The class surveys the major interpreters that followed Rashi (including Rashbam, Abraham Ibn Ezra, and Nahmanides), and focuses on an in-depth study of Bahya ben Asher's classic use of the fourfold method of interpretation. This is a Hebrew text-centered course, and great emphasis is placed on cultivating facility with the reading of medieval exegetical sources. |
RAB 408
RAB 409
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TALMUD 1 (1.5) Q1
TALMUD 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Dvora Weisberg
This course introduces students to the study of the Babylonian Talmud. Students study selected passages from the Talmud and analyze terminology, structure and style of argumentation. Students are introduced to tools for Talmud study. While the primary focus of the course is the text itself, also to be considered are the milieu in which the Talmud came into being, the world view the Talmud presents, and the role the Talmud has played in rabbinic Judaism. |
RAB 410
RAB 411
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TALMUD 3 (1.5) Q3
TALMUD 4 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Dvora Weisberg
This course is a continuation of RAB 408 & 409 (Talmud 1 & 2). Students study a selected chapter from the Babylonian Talmud. The course stresses honing of skills, but also provides opportunities to consider the role of the Talmud in the evolution of Jewish law and culture. |
RAB 412
RAB 413
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CODES 1 (1.5) Q1 (4th year students), Q3 (3rd year students)
CODES 2 (1.5) Q2 (4th year students), Q4 (3rd year students)
Dr. Stephen Passamaneck
An introduction to the Shulhan Arukh and related literature. |
RAB 490
RAB 491
RAB 492
RAB 493
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INTERMEDIATE TALMUD 1 (1.5) Q1
INTERMEDIATE TALMUD 2 (1.5) Q2
INTERMEDIATE TALMUD 3 (1.5) Q3
INTERMEDIATE TALMUD 4 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Joel Gereboff
This course offers students the opportunity to study Talmud in a beit midrash setting. It allows students to build upon the skills they learned in introductory Talmud and prepares them to study Talmud independently and in hevruta after their ordination. In addition, students increase their understanding of the general features of Talmud and the ways in which Talmud reflects the broader values and character of rabbinic Judaism. |
RAB 504
RAB 505
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RAMBAM ON REPENTANCE 1 (1.5) Q1
RAMBAM ON REPENTANCE 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Stephen Passamaneck
This course explores Maimonides's Hilkhoth Teshuvah in Mishneh Torah. The specific rules dealing with repentance as a vital aspect of Jewish religious practice and law are examined in detail in the Maimonidean text, its Talmudic bases and in selected commentary to the Maimonidean rules. The student develops a sense of the complexity of the subject and its treatment as an aspect of the halakhah. Prerequisite: RAB 412 and 413, Codes 1 and 2. |
RAB 510
RAB 511
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INTERGENERATIONAL RESPECT AND JEWISH LAW 1 (1.5) Q3
INTERGENERATIONAL RESPECT AND JEWISH LAW 2 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Stephen Passamaneck
This course explores a specific block of halakhic material relating to traditional Jewish views on the relations between parents and children, particularly grown children. The textual material is drawn both from medieval restatements and from their Talmudic sources; commentary to the restatements is also examined. Prerequisite: Codes. |
RAB 512
RAB 513
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READING AND TEACHING TALMUD 1 (1.5) Q3
READING AND TEACHING TALMUD 2 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Dvora Weisberg/Dr. Isa Aron
This course focuses on developing pedagogic content knowledge for the teaching of Talmudic texts. We will study a set of texts and consider that issues that arise when we prepare to teach such texts in a variety of setting. Issues to be considered include: teaching Talmud vs. teaching topics using Talmudic texts, halakha as an end or a process, teaching texts in and out of context, issues of historicity in teaching halakhic and aggadic texts. Students will also be exposed to resources for teaching Talmud and required to develop lesson plans employing the ideas they have learned. |
SOE 401
SOE 402
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TEACHING 1 (1.5) Q1
TEACHING 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Isa Aron
A survey of the concepts and skills in lesson planning and classroom teaching. The seminar includes application in teaching settings of the skills acquired, and analysis of teaching performance by the students in the seminar. |
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SOE 403
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TEACHING 3 (1.5) Q3
Dr. Isa Aron
An exploration of the philosophical and methodological issues in teaching Hebrew language and Jewish texts. |
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SOE 405
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SOCIAL FOUNDATIONS 1 (1.5) Q1
Prof. Sara Lee
The study of the history and sociology of the American Jewish community and its impact on Jewish education. |
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SOE 407
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ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT (1.5) Q1
Dr. Isa Aron
A survey of perspectives on organizational climate, goal-setting and improvement process as applied to the needs and realities of Jewish educational institutions. |
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SOE 408
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GUIDED RESEARCH ON ORGANIZATIONS 1 (1) Q2
Dr. Isa Aron
Students prepare a deliberation project on a selected issue in Jewish educational institutions or programs. |
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SOE 409
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LITURGY PRACTICUM (1.5) Q3
Rabbi Jeff Marx
An exploration of the teaching of prayer and the use of prayer in educational settings. |
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SOE 410
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HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 1 (1.5) Q1
Dr. Matt Albert
A survey of developmental theories from early childhood through middle childhood. |
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SOE 411
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HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 2 (1.5) Q2
Faculty: TBA
A focus developmental theories from adolescence through adulthood. |
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SOE 412
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HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 3 (1) Q3
Faculty: TBA
A focus on family systems and basic counseling skills. |
SOE 413
SOE 414
SOE 415
SOE 416
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SUPERVISED TEACHING 1 (1) Q1
SUPERVISED TEACHING 2 (1) Q2
SUPERVISED TEACHING 3 (1) Q3
SUPERVISED TEACHING 4 (1) Q4
Dr. Isa Aron/Prof. Sara Lee
Supervised teaching in a Jewish educational setting. |
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SOE 417
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STAFF DEVELOPMENT 1 (1.5) Q3
Dr. Michael Zeldin
Perspectives on the theory and practice of models of clinical supervision. |
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SOE 418
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STAFF DEVELOPMENT 2 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Michael Zeldin
Hiring and evaluating educational staff, and development of in-service programs for staff. |
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SOE 420
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CURRICULUM 1 (1.5) Q1
Dr. Michael Zeldin
Frameworks for curriculum thinking and exploration of key concepts in Jewish curriculum. |
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SOE 421
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CURRICULUM 2 (1.5) Q2
Prof. Sara Lee
Perspectives on the Jewish content areas of curriculum in Jewish educational settings. |
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SOE 422
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CURRICULUM 3 (1.5) Q3
Prof. Sara Lee
Theories of curriculum and curriculum design. |
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SOE 423
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CURRICULUM FOR ADULTS (1) Q4
Faculty: TBA
Exploring the development of curricula for adult Jewish learning. |
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SOE 425
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CURRICULUM FOR DAY SCHOOLS (1) Q4
Faculty: TBA
Special issues in designing curriculum for Jewish day schools. |
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SOE 426
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CURRICULUM FOR FAMILIES (1) Q4
Faculty: TBA
Models of curriculum for family education. |
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SOE 427
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GUIDED RESEARCH ON CURRICULUM 1
Dr. Michael Zeldin
The creation of a curriculum guide on a selected topic. |
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SOE 428
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GUIDED RESEARCH ON CURRICULUM 2 (1) Q4
Dr. Michael Zeldin
Continuing development of a curriculum guide. |
SOE 429
SOE 430
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LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT 1 (1.5) Q1
LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT 2 (1.5) Q2
Dr. Michael Zeldin
The survey and practice of administrative skills of the Jewish school including perspectives on policy issues in Jewish education and leadership. |
SOE 431
SOE 432
SOE 433
SOE 434
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SUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION 1 (1) Q1
SUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION 2 (1) Q2
SUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION 3 (1) Q3
SUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION 4 (1) Q4
Dr. Michael Zeldin
Supervised administrative experience in Jewish educational settings. |
SOE 433
SOE 436
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PHILOSOPHICAL FOUNDATIONS 1 (1.5) Q3
PHILOSOPHICAL FOUNDATIONS 2 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Isa Aron
A survey of educational ideologies from both the secular and the Jewish realm. Issues of oral education and religious development are explored. |
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SOE 436
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TEACHING AND LEARNING SEMINAR 1 (3) F
Ms. Luisa Latham
(for DeLeT students only)
The Seminar in Teaching and Learning is a year-long course (60 hours) which develops a vision of and stance toward Jewish day school classroom teaching, an understanding of student-centered instruction and curriculum, with an emphasis on integration, and becoming a reflective teacher, able to translate experience into opportunities for personal and professional growth. |
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SOE 450
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TEACHING PRACTICUM (1.5) Pre-quad intensive
Dr. Isa Aron
This weeklong intensive covers the essential elements of lesson planning and classroom management, so that students are well prepared to begin their teaching. Topics under lesson planning include: "webbing" to explore themes, articulating "big ideas," Bloom's taxonomy, writing objectives and developing a questioning sequence. Topics under classroom management include: organizing space and time, varying classroom organization, and setting rules and consequences. |
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SOE 460
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CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND LEARNING (3) Summer
Dr. Diane Schuster
(for DeLeT students only)
An inquiry into learning and development of children from early childhood through adolescence with emphasis on the elementary grades. An examination of human universals, individual differences and cross cultural variability in psychosocial and cognitive development. The context, values and developmental issues common to Jewish day schools are incorporated. |
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SOE 461
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MEETING THE NEEDS OF ALL LEARNERS (1) F
Dr. David Ackerman
(for DeLeT students only)
A survey of special needs of learners and programs which are designed to meet their educational needs with a focus on how the Jewish day school context affects issues related to the needs of learners and how Jewish day schools address these needs. |
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SOE 462
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DAY SCHOOL CURRICULUM AND SOCIETY 1 (2) F
Ms. Luisa Latham/Rabbi Tali Hyman
(for DeLeT students only)
An exploration of the development of curriculum in Jewish day schools with particular emphasis on the purposes and functions of curriculum, including school philosophy and mission; factors shaping the curriculum; teacher roles in curriculum planning and development; making curriculum accessible and relevant to all learners. |
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SOE 464
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DAY SCHOOL CURRICULUM AND SOCIETY 2 (1) S
Ms. Luisa Latham/Rabbi Tali Hyman
(for DeLeT students only)
Continuation of SOE 462 Day School Curriculum and Society 1. |
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SOE 465
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HEALTH AND JEWISH VALUES (1) S
Dr. Ian Russ/Rabbi Tali Hyman
(for DeLeT students only)
Addresses concepts, principles and major laws related to creating a supportive, healthy environment of K-12 student with particular emphasis on the effects of health and safety on student learning and an examination of health, healing and wholeness complemented by the study of relevant Jewish values. Introduction to resources within and outside the Jewish community for collaboration and referral among teachers, school systems and social-service agencies. |
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SOE 466
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND JEWISH VALUES (1) S
Ms. Maureen Bond/Rabbi Tali Hyman
(for DeLeT students only)
A survey of approaches to physical education in the context of the Jewish day school that identifies skills and competencies developmentally appropriate in physical education programs and integrates Jewish values regarding the body and health, team work, personal integrity, and responsibility. |
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SOE 467
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TEACHING AND LEARNING SEMINAR 2 (3) S
Ms. Luisa Latham
(for DeLeT students only)
Continuation of SOE 463 Teaching and Learning Seminar 1. |
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SOE 468
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DIVERSITY AND SCHOOLS (3) Summer
Dr. Sharroky Hollie/Dr. Phil Liff-Grieff
(for DeLeT students only)
Examines the role that culture plays in the lives of teachers and students in both general and Jewish educational contexts, with emphasis on historical, cultural and religious traditions of the students and their teachers. |
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SOE 469
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INTRODUCTION TO JEWISH TEXTS 1 (2) Summer
Dr. Sharroky Hollie/Dr. Phil Liff-Grieff
(for DeLeT students only)
This course introduces students to the major genres of Jewish texts, with an emphasis on the Hebrew Bible and the prayer book. The course examines the characteristics of the texts, the broad issues raised by studying the texts, and the pedagogical concerns surrounding the teaching of the texts in the context of a Jewish day school. |
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SOE 470
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INTRODUCTION TO JEWISH TEXTS 2 (2) Summer
Dr. Sharroky Hollie/Dr. Phil Liff-Grieff
(for DeLeT students only)
Continuation of SOE 469 Introduction to Jewish Texts 1. |
THE 503
THE 504
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MODES OF SPIRITUAL AWARENESS 1: (AUTUMN RHYTHMS) (1.5) Q1
MODES OF SPIRITUAL AWARENESS 2: (AUTUMN RHYTHMS) (1.5) Q2
Rabbi Richard Levy
This class is intended to help students become more aware of the ways in which God's presence may be perceived in the life of a serious Reform Jew. Reflecting on the fall holy days and Torah readings, students keep spiritual journals, reflect on insights which daily prayer, parshat ha-shavua, and other texts can offer into the meaning of the week, exploring the incorporation of rituals into life and observances. Maximum of six students. |
THE 514
THE 515
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MODERN JEWISH THINKERS IN DEPTH 1 (1.5) Q3
MODERN JEWISH THINKERS IN DEPTH 2 (1.5) Q4
Dr. Rachel Adler
In this seminar, the class examines the work of a few thinkers in depth. The 2007 seminar focuses on Eugene Borowitz, A.J. Heschel, and J.B. Soloveitchik. |
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