Gratz College Announces Nation's First Master's Degree in Antisemitism Studies

PHILADELPHIA, February 23, 2024 (VSNewsNetwork.com) - Gratz College is set to introduce the United States' inaugural Master of Arts degree program in Antisemitism Studies, commencing in Fall 2024. According to a recent press release from the school, this initiative aims to address the critical need for comprehensive education and research on antisemitism, amidst a backdrop of increasing incidents of Jew hatred.

The program's objective is to serve as an academic foundation for individuals dedicated to understanding antisemitism in depth, facilitating groundbreaking research on the causes of rising antisemitism, and exploring effective interventions. It is designed to prepare students for careers in various sectors, including education, think tanks, government relations, public policy, and community organizations, enhancing their qualifications for roles that require specialized knowledge in antisemitism studies.

Highlighting the importance of this educational endeavor, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro expressed his endorsement, stating, "We’re seeing a dangerous rise in antisemitism, hatred, and bigotry across our country – and it’s more important than ever that Pennsylvanians be equipped with a thorough knowledge of our shared history and the skills to discern fact from fiction." Shapiro further noted, "Gratz College is already renowned for its Holocaust and Genocide Studies programs, and I am encouraged the College is expanding upon that work with a new Master’s degree in Antisemitism Studies. I wish the faculty, staff, and especially the inaugural class of Antisemitism Studies students, great success in their work."

The program will be under the guidance of Dr. Ayal Feinberg, a recognized expert in antisemitism studies, alongside a distinguished interdisciplinary faculty. It has garnered support from nearly one hundred scholars and public policy experts worldwide. Reflecting on the program's significance, Professor R. Amy Elman from Kalamazoo College remarked, "With an emphasis on operationalizing knowledge, informed teaching and ethical advocacy, Gratz’s innovative graduate program fulfills a deep need in countering antisemitism."

In addition to its academic offerings, Gratz College is establishing partnerships with leading Jewish organizations to address antisemitism effectively in educational and professional environments. Among these initiatives is a collaboration with The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to initiate the National Education Fellowship on Antisemitism, aimed at developing educational strategies to mitigate Jew hatred and prejudice.

Supported by the Isidore and Penny Myers Foundation, the program aims to create a new generation of scholars dedicated to combating antisemitism. Jay Myers, Board Chair of the foundation, emphasized the value of this educational initiative, stating, "The Isidore and Penny Myers Foundation, a family foundation guided by Jewish American values, sees great worth in educating future generations about the roots of Antisemitism, and by doing so, working to combat it. This degree program will create scholars who can devote their talent to meet this challenge. Our Foundation is proud to support this work and by so doing, meet our obligation to help repair the world."

Prospective students and interested parties are encouraged to learn more about the program and application process by visiting www.gratz.edu.

Source: Gratz College via Newswire