Master in Jewish Theology

The Master's in Jewish Theology at the University of Potsdam is centred on the in-depth study of Jewish religion, covering the history of ancient and medieval Jewish religion and philosophy as well as transformation processes from the mid-16th century onward. The programme places particular weight on Rabbinic Judaism in antiquity and the early Middle Ages, and the core curriculum involves reading and interpreting texts from the Talmudic era — Mishnah, Talmud, and Midrashim — as well as literature of the Rishonim and Acharonim in their original languages. Further focal areas include the Jewish Enlightenment and the Reform Movement, Eastern European Hasidism, religious philosophy, and the theological and ethical thought of the 19th and 20th centuries. Practical theology is integrated into the programme, covering orders of service and the liturgical features of celebrations, fast days, and days of remembrance. Students also complete an internship module, with options including work with a Jewish community or cultural institution, designing a tutorial for the Bachelor's programme, or participating in an academic project. For students with a Jewish religious affiliation, the programme can be pursued with a focus on liberal or conservative (Masorti) rabbinates, linked to admission at the Abraham Geiger College or the Zacharias Frankel College. The programme runs over 4 semesters and is offered at the University of Potsdam in Potsdam, Germany.