What is the MAJPS Program?
The Master of Arts in Jewish Professional Studies (MAJPS) program is a new model of learning and training for Jewish professionals. It offers core courses in the areas of classical and contemporary Jewish knowledge that are most relevant to Jewish communal life today, combined with essential professional training in Nonprofit Management, Jewish education, Camping & Experiential Education or Jewish Studies.

Where is Spertus Institute located?
Spertus is conveniently located at 610 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, between Harrison & Balbo.

Is Spertus Institute accredited?
Spertus is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA), 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, Illinois 60602.

What type of student is enrolled in the MAJPS program at Spertus Institute?
The student body represents professionals from a broad range of Jewish agencies, as well as others looking to transition into professional work in the Jewish community, who are interested in studying and learning from great classical and contemporary texts, talented educators, and each other.

How long is the program?
Students can complete the program in approximately two years, three months.

What are the hours and days that students attend class?
Students attend class one night per week, always on the same evening of the week, from 6–9 pm for all of the core courses. Workshops and concentration-specific courses are scheduled in consultation with students.

Who teaches the MAJPS program?
Our highly credentialed faculty members have extensive experience in their fields of expertise. Spertus employs more than 30 adjunct faculty members, many of whom have taught at Spertus for more than five years. The Spertus MAJPS also has a strong mentoring component that fosters professional development and the integration of coursework and professional work. MAJPS mentors are experienced Jewish communal professionals working in the upper echelons of the field.

What is the class size?
The MAJPS program is run on a cohort basis, offering the opportunity for students from a range of institutional and professional backgrounds to network, learn from one another, and create a vibrant community of practice. Cohorts generally consist of 10-18 students.

How much is the tuition?
The full cost of the two year program is $15,000. Legacy Heritage Fellows will receive a tuition reduction of $6,750, equal to 45% of the total tuition. When combined with the Spertus scholarship available to MAJPS students, the student’s share of the remaining tuition for the entire program is $4,500.

How much for textbooks, materials, and other fees?
The cost for textbooks and materials averages $200 per year. Students will also be responsible for a graduation fee.

Is there financial aid available?
Yes. Financial aid is available in the form of subsidized and unsubsidized federal loans.

How often do cohorts start?
The MAJPS program admits students to a new cohort each year in the fall.

What is the length of each course?
Each course lasts seven weeks.

What are the academic requirements?
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale).

What is the application process?
Prospective students should (1) Submit a completed application, (2) Submit an admissions essay of 500 words, double-spaced and typed, (3) Provide official transcripts from all colleges attended, and (4) Participate in an interview with the admissions committee. The application deadline for priority consideration to the 2013 cohort is May 17.

How long does the application process take?
Once the application is completed, the student should receive a reply from the MAJPS office within two to three weeks.

What about parking downtown?
$10 discount parking is available with Spertus validation at Standard Parking at the Essex Inn on 8th Street and Michigan Avenue (2 blocks south of Spertus). Enter on 8th Street between Michigan and Wabash. Some street parking is available after 6 pm. Spertus is also easily accessible by public transportation.

How can I get more information?
Contact Ann Luban at aluban@spertus.edu or 312.322.1719.

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