Jewish Learning
for a Better World
An Institution of Higher Jewish Learning Dedicated to Real-World Action
At Spertus Institute, we believe that the wisdom in Jewish history, thought, and texts has meaning as an academic pursuit and as a catalyst for action. The learning we offer is rich and rigorous. It is also deeply relevant to the challenges we face today and to building a stronger, more compassionate, more vibrant future.
What We Offer
Graduate Degree & Certificate Programs
At our core are degree and certificate programs in which students engage with Jewish ideas in the service of personal growth, community leadership, and professional advancement. These offerings, which merge theory and practice, educate Jewish professionals, community leaders, and those who seek quality, reflection-driven Jewish Studies scholarship.
Many Ways to Learn
Our academic and professional offerings are complemented by onsite and online programs, in an array of formats, that invite people of all backgrounds and denominations to experience the richness of Jewish learning and culture. These programs are open to all. Every year thousands of participants increase their understanding of Jewish history, culture, and beliefs.
Watch the video below to find out more.
Our Approach
Our approach is agile and innovative. We don’t shy from contemporary issues. In fact, we believe that we must address them — and that Jewish learning provides critical tools to help us do so. We often hear from students and participants that their Spertus experiences are inspiring and transformative. That is by design, because we offer learning with real-world application in a welcoming environment that encourages people to connect, exchange ideas, and build community.


Ways We Make a Difference
Our educational programs build the adaptive capacity of individuals, organizations, and communities by empowering professionals, leaders, and learners to make a difference. At the same time, our work increases global access to Jewish learning — and the impact of its application.
Throughout our programs, we build community by bringing together thought leaders and learners from across organizations, sectors, and communities, to convene, connect, share ideas, generate solutions, and learn. We even create community online. Spertus Institute has an impressive track record of high-quality distance education and online teaching. Our faculty and staff bring this expertise to bear for our students and participants, fostering a community of vibrant intellectual exchange, whether you join us in person and online.

Photo by Ajay Suresh.
Proudly based in Chicago — with students and impact worldwide
Our campus is an iconic, award-winning, environmentally sustainable building in the heart of Chicago’s academic and cultural corridor, on Michigan Avenue, directly across from Grant Park.