Master's Degree inn Talmud and Oral Law - Thesis Track

The Talmud stands at the foundation of Jewish culture throughout the generations. The Talmud is a textual documentation of rabbinic discussions on matters of Jewish law (halakha), philosophy, and biblical interpretation that took place over generations. It is structured as a commentary on the Mishnah, interwoven with legendary stories, words of wisdom, and practical life advice. All the sources and different periods studied and researched in the Master's degree program in the department are approached with a critical perspective, through deep analysis and with consideration of historical, philological, literary, and legal aspects.

Why Study in the Department of Talmud and Oral Law?

  • The department's lecturers are among the world's leading researchers in their field.
  • The department has a cooperation agreement with Yeshiva University in the USA that allows students to take courses from YU.
  • The faculty members are committed and dedicated to your success, through personal attention and close guidance they will ensure you meet the high requirements and fulfill your potential - both academically and in your research.

A Master's degree in Talmud and Oral Law with a thesis includes conducting advanced research (thesis) and submitting a final paper. It is intended for those who want to expand their knowledge and focus on research.

The Master's program with a thesis takes three years to complete. 

  • The degree includes writing two seminars at the graduate level with two different teachers, worth 8 credits, with a minimum average grade of 90. Failure to maintain this average will result in transfer to Track B - without a thesis (unless specially approved by the head of the department).
  • Master's level courses worth 16 credits.
  • Registration for thesis code starting from the second year of studies.
  • The research proposal must be submitted by the end of the first semester of the second year

The Master's degree with thesis in Talmud and Oral Law includes courses totaling 24 credits.

Some courses are taught in person and others are online or via Zoom.

Comprehensive Exam: Every student will be required to take one comprehensive exam during their degree studies. For details, see information about the comprehensive exam.

Students can combine teaching certification studies with their degree. This certification provides employment opportunities and allows graduates to integrate into the education system teaching Oral Law, as well as in higher education institutions as lecturers and researchers.

Admission Requirements:

  1. Bachelor's degree (from an accredited academic institution) with a minimum average grade of 76.
  2. Candidates who did not study Talmud in their undergraduate degree can be accepted to the program and will be required to take supplementary courses based on their academic background.
  3. Final decisions regarding admission to the Master's program are under the authority of the School of Graduate Studies. Other admission requirements are according to the university's admission conditions.

Other admission requirements are according to the university's admission requirements.

For question and additional clarification please reach out to us:

  • Administrative Assistant: Miriam Elbaz

         Telephone: 03-5318612

         Emailtalmud.dept@biu.ac.il 

        Sunday through Thursday between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm

  • Zoom Office Hours: Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursday between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm

         Link: Open Door for Talmud and Oral Law

  • In Person Office Hours: Sunday through Thursday between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Department of Talmud and Oral Law, Building 410, Room 127, Bar Ilan Campus, Ramat Gan. Meetings must be scheduled in advance with Miriam Elbaz.