Advancing the Study of Jewish History and Culture
The Center for Judaic Studies encourages cultural understanding through interdisciplinary studies and research in Jewish languages, philosophy, religion, history, literature, and film. CJS offers academic studies at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Our faculty and staff feature top-tier teachers, authors, and professionals committed to fostering global Jewish culture in Denver and throughout Colorado. The Center invites esteemed scholars, religious leaders, Holocaust survivors, and creative artists to share their insight with our students and community. Beyond campus, we engage lifelong learners through diverse programming and social action initiatives. CJS serves as the home for the Holocaust Awareness Institute’s Survival & Witness platform, the premier educational resource supporting the State of Colorado’s mandate for Holocaust and genocide education in public schools. CJS also houses the Rocky Mountain Jewish Historical Society (RMJHS) and the Ira M. and Peryle Hayutin Beck Memorial Archives, which together document and promote the legacy of Jewish life along the Front Range.
Rocky Mountain Jewish Historical Society
Housed at the Center for Judaic Studies and University Libraries, the Rocky Mountain Jewish Historical Society (RMJHS) is the premier organization for the preservation of Jewish historical knowledge in the western U.S. The society is dedicated to supporting researchers with comprehensive scholarly resources and also provides support for educators seeking to enrich their teaching in numerous disciplines.
Holocaust Awareness Institute
Bringing the knowledge and experience of Holocaust survivors and scholars to DU's Judaic Studies programs, the Holocaust Awareness Institute works to preserve and share a detailed history of one of the world's most vicious atrocities. Through guest lectures, education initiatives and other community partnerships, the institute offers multicultural explorations of the continuing significance of the Shoah, or Holocaust, in today's world.
Academic Program in Judaic Studies
The Center for Judaic Studies serves as the hub for DU's Judaic Studies minor. Available to undergraduate students hoping to add an exploration of Jewish history and culture to their main degree program, the minor in Judaic studies can help broaden your perspective and connect your passions to a wider world.
Graduate students pursuing the master's in religious studies or philosophy can supplement their work with high-level courses in Judaic studies. Likewise, students in the University's PhD programs can work with advisors to integrate Judaic Studies coursework into their doctoral program.
Students hoping to study abroad have the option of pursuing opportunities at one of four partner institutions around the world. Contact the Center to learn how you can make Judaic studies part of your study abroad experience.
