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 Café

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 the 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. We also offer a unique general education curriculum (G-PAC) course in beginning Hebrew, HEBR 1001, which combines learning basic Hebrew language skills with a thematic component focused on the history of the Hebrew language.

Hebrew Placement Exams

Students with previous Hebrew language experience should take the online Hebrew placement exam before enrolling in a Hebrew course. For questions regarding the Hebrew placement exam, please email Prof. Orian Zakai.

"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