Hebrew

For more than 30 years, the Hebrew program at GW has been dedicated to the study of Hebrew language, literature and culture. Through our two minors, students develop intermediate to advanced levels of Hebrew proficiency. Language courses are taught by native speakers, with material covering reading, writing, speaking and listening. Hebrew courses are varied and applicable to real-life scenarios, preparing students for casual daily conversations and integrating modern Israeli media and culture.

Housed within the Classical and Near Eastern Languages and Cultures Department, the program also works in collaboration with GW’s programs in Middle Eastern studies, Arabic, ancient Near East studies and Judaic studies to offer learning opportunities on topics ranging from Biblical Hebrew to modern Israeli culture. Outside the classroom, our monthly Hebrew Café engages students and faculty in informal Hebrew conversation and cultural activities.

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Hebrew Courses

Hebrew Events

Programs

Copies of Haartz newspaper in english and hebrew editions with reading glasses

A group of students sitting at desks in Arabic class

Course Material

Hebrew courses are open to students in our minor programs and those from other departments who are interested in expanding their knowledge of Hebrew language and culture. Offerings include beginner through advanced Hebrew language courses as well as courses delivered in English about Hebrew and Israeli literature and culture, such as Israeli Cinema, Gender and Sexuality in Israel and Modern Hebrew Literary Classics. Our unique beginning and intermediate Hebrew courses, HEBR 1001 and HEBR 2001, are also accredited as general education courses in the humanities (GPAC critical thinking), and combine learning Hebrew language skills with learning about the history of the Hebrew language.

Hebrew Placement Exams

Students with previous Hebrew language experience should contact Prof. Orian Zakai at [email protected] before registering to schedule a placement interview.

"GW has widened my understanding of Hebrew language and culture through courses in literature and conversation, independent studies focusing on Mizrahi music and Biblical Hebrew as well as classes taught in English about Israeli cinema and gender and sexuality in Israel. My university experience was truly enriched by the diverse and fulfilling courses."

Noah Shufutinsky
BA '21, Judaic Studies, Minor in Hebrew Studies