Hebrew

The department offers Hebrew language instruction, advanced courses in Hebrew, and courses in English. Language instruction prepares students to understand and appreciate the literature and civilization of the Jewish people by developing skills in listening comprehension, speaking, reading, writing, and translation. For advanced students who already have a command of Hebrew, there are courses in Biblical, Rabbinic, and Modern Hebrew literature, and Israeli culture, as well as courses in Aramaic and Talmud. In many of the courses covering modern works, Hebrew is the language of the classroom as well. Courses in English cover Hebrew literature of various periods, as well as Israeli, Sephardic, and Yiddish literature and culture, with readings in translation. Students can use the advanced courses as the basis for a concentration in Hebrew (including a double-major to complement a primary field of study), as part of the concentration in Jewish Studies, or for a minor.

Study Abroad  

Study in Israel can give the student a deeper and more extensive knowledge of the Hebrew language and its literature and culture than is normally possible in an academic setting. The department encourages study abroad, and grants varying credit toward the major and toward the degree at Queens College, depending on the nature of the course of study. A matriculated student should consult the coordinator before taking courses abroad.  

Course Placement  

Students who have had less than one year of high school Hebrew normally begin with HEBRW 101; those with less than two years normally begin with HEBRW 102; those who completed the requirements for the New York State Regents Examination in Hebrew (3 years) with a grade of at least 85 should enter HEBRW 305 or 307. All others, including native speakers and students who attended Hebrew day schools or Yeshivot, should consult the department for correct placement.