Gratz College provides a Master’s of Education (M.Ed.) with a Jewish Instructional Education concentration. This is a 36-credit program, which can be completed entirely online in as little as two years if students take one class per term (3 semesters per year). Students gain knowledge in instructional design, effective learning assessment, and ethical issues, while learning how to apply those concepts in a Jewish school. 

There are many customizable courses, which are all offered online. Creative and thorough course options provide a broad look at Judaism and Jewish education from multiple lenses.  There is a strong focus on creativity and diversity in student centered classrooms.  Students can customize curriculum to fit their unique professional goals by selecting elective courses in Jewish Studies, Holocaust & Genocide Studies, and Nonprofit Management, as well as Education and Jewish Education. 

Synchronous options such as phone calls, live webinars or mentoring are encouraged, but not required. Hebrew is a prerequisite. All  Hebrew courses are at night, but Hebrew can be studied anywhere and credits can be transferred. There is no thesis or tests, but lots of graded assignments. 

This program appeals mostly to people with a pluralistic background. However, they have committed staff from a Modern Orthodox background, such as Dr. Davis, who advises and works with students to customize the material as much as possible and build a comfortable online working environment for all types. 

There is an option to take two non-matriculated courses, without signing up for a degreed program. If continued, courses can be counted towards the MA.  

Participants report positive experiences in learning to structure the classroom, build strong professional development for teaching staff and building on the schools curriculum, as well as being part of a community of practice that includes professors who contribute their vast knowledge, along with an incredible and supportive administrative staff that are helpful and readily accessible. 

Note: International students are required to submit official TOEFL scores, as well as have their undergraduate and  graduate (if applicable) transcripts evaluated by the World Education Service (WES). Like all applicants, they will also be required to submit the online application, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume with their employment and educational history. Able to waive one letter of recommendation for students with at least an 80 on a TOEFL test.