Welcome to Spertus Institute

Since 1924, Spertus Institute has been dedicated to learning that is rich, rigorous, and deeply relevant to the issues that shape Jewish life. This tradition continues with graduate and certificate programs that serve adult learners from around the world. Spertus students benefit from our culture of innovation, flexibility, inclusivity, creativity, intellectual adventurousness, and academic excellence. 

At Spertus, learning is rooted in Jewish history, thought, and culture, but not a specific stream or denomination of Judaism. Our pluralistic approach creates a rare and vital space where those from different communities, faith traditions, and backgrounds learn together.

Our programs provide real-world application. They are taught through a combination of onsite courses and seminars that build connection and distance learning components that meet real-life scheduling needs.

Spertus Institute is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Chicago.

Headshot of Ali Drumm.

My Spertus experience was life changing.

ALI DRUMM
Director of Congregational Learning
North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, Highland Park, IL

 

What Our Students Say

We often hear from students that their experiences at Spertus are inspiring and transformative. That is by design, because we offer thought-provoking content with real-world application, in a welcoming environment that meets students where they are on their academic, personal, and professional journeys.

Headshot of Rachel Adams.

Why Spertus? They invested in me and my future.

IAN SOLOW-NIEDERMAN
Regional Director
Alpha Epsilon Phi, Washington, DC

Jewish Leadership Master’s Programs & Certificates

Rooted in the belief that great Jewish communities need great Jewish leaders, graduate degree and certificate offerings from Spertus Institute’s Center for Jewish Leadership transform Jewish life by cultivating innovative approaches to leadership and enhancing the abilities of Jewish professionals and lay leaders.

Master of Arts in Jewish Professional Studies (MAJPS)

For professionals serving Jewish organizations. Part-time, cohort-based program offers an integrated curriculum of cutting-edge professional skills along with applied Jewish studies.

Executive MA in Jewish Professional Studies (EMAJPS)

For executive-level professionals working in the North American Jewish community. Accelerated, integrated curriculum highlights Jewish thought and executive skills.

Certificate in Jewish Leadership

Presented in partnership with Northwestern University, this program is for professionals and lay leaders serving Jewish institutions who desire to lead, communicate, and collaborate more effectively.

Leadership Certificate in Combating Antisemitism

For individuals in leadership positions of Jewish institutions. This executive training teaches them to respond to antisemitism with strength, skill, and expertise.

Amie Barrish headshot

I look forward to hearing your goals and welcoming you to the Spertus community of learners.

AMIE BARRISH
Assistant Director for Recruitment
Spertus Institute, Chicago

Next Step

Make an appointment to talk to Amie Barrish, Assistant Director for Recruitment, and she’ll help you explore if a Spertus program is right for you.