Primary texts are central to Jewish Studies at Hebrew College. Bible, Mishnah, Gemara, Midrash, Codes and Medieval commentary, as well as contemporary Jewish Literature form the program's core. From the integrated study of Jewish sources, history, culture and ethics, students gain the skills and a multitude of perspectives to become confident interpreters of Jewish texts and tradition.

Central to the Jewish Studies curriculum is a series of core-text courses, covering the four major periods of Jewish history—biblical, rabbinic, medieval and modern. To decipher the full meaning of sources and appreciate their depth, students study texts in the original Hebrew. The College's strong Hebrew language program enables those without prior training in Hebrew to develop these essential language skills.

Students also hone their critical research skills during the course of their study. During the last semester of residence, students from various disciplines and areas of interest participate in a research seminar to integrate and synthesize what they have learned during the program, to discuss research methods and to complete work on their master's papers. At semester's end, students present their master's papers to the Hebrew College community.

In addition to the degrees and certificates available, Hebrew College established the Hasidic Text Institute, directed by Dr. Nehemia Polen.

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