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CIP 39.0605 Theology and Religious Vocations

Rabbinical Studies

IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education · 2025

Total graduates

84

2025 · 9 schools

International share

1.2%

1 international students

Master's degrees

81

1.2% international

Overview

Rabbinical Studies is an academic discipline that focuses on the study of Judaism, particularly the role and responsibilities of rabbis within the Jewish community. This field encompasses a wide range of topics, including Jewish law (Halakha), theology, ethics, history, and the interpretation of sacred texts such as the Torah and Talmud.

Students in Rabbinical Studies typically engage in rigorous textual analysis and learn how to apply ancient teachings to contemporary issues. The curriculum often includes courses in Hebrew and Aramaic, enabling students to read and interpret classical Jewish texts in their original languages. In addition to textual studies, students may also explore the historical development of rabbinic thought and its impact on Jewish culture and society.

Rabbinical Studies programs often prepare students for various roles within the Jewish community, including becoming a rabbi, educator, or community leader. Students not only gain a deep understanding of Jewish texts and traditions but also develop skills in pastoral care, public speaking, and leadership.

Furthermore, this field encourages dialogue between Jewish tradition and modern societal challenges, allowing graduates to address contemporary moral and ethical dilemmas within the framework of Jewish teachings. Overall, Rabbinical Studies is a vital discipline for those interested in pursuing a career in Jewish leadership or scholarship, offering rich insights into the complexities of Jewish life and thought.

Graduates by year

Graduates by degree level (first and second majors)

AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral

From 2002 to 2025, graduates fell 17% and the international share went from 5.0% to 1.2%.

International share (%)
Graduates by group, 2025
White
88.1%
Asian
0.0%
Hispanic
3.6%
Black
0.0%
Other
7.1%
Intl.
1.2%

Colleges that award this degree

In 2025, 9 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.

RankSchoolStateGraduatesInternational
— Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion New York 15 0
— Rabbinical College Bobover Yeshiva Bnei Zion New York 13 0
— Hebrew College Massachusetts 12 0
— Rabbinical Seminary of America New York 12 0
— Reconstructionist Rabbinical College Pennsylvania 10 0
— Jewish Theological Seminary of America New York 9 1
— American Jewish University California 6 0
— Academy for Jewish Religion California California 4 0
— Ner Israel Rabbinical College Maryland 3 0

Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.

Related jobs and pay

OccupationUS employmentMean hourly wageMean annual wage
Clergy 57,200 $32.15 $66,860
Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary 20,460 — $92,040

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.

Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2002–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.