Certificate in Jewish Informal Education, Youth Leadership and Camping

Some of the most challenging and inspiring Jewish learning occurs outside the formal classroom setting—on a bus tour through Israel, around a campfire or during havdalah on a synagogue retreat.

By using the setting and social group as a natural starting point, educators introduce learners, in a very personal way, to Jewish concepts. For adolescents, in particular, informal education is one of the most effective means to build identity and an understanding of Jewish living. This certificate focuses on the content, methodology and leadership skills that Jewish educators need to maximize the "teachable moment" that is the essence of informal education.

Completed by most students in two years, this 21-credit CERTIFICATE IN JEWISH INFORMAL EDUCATION, YOUTH LEADERSHIP AND CAMPING prepares Jewish educators to serve as effective leaders of informal educational institutions and programs. In particular, the certificate program is designed for youth directors, synagogue program directors, Jewish camp leaders, Israel program leaders and trip leaders.

Though a significant emphasis is placed on informal education for adolescents, the certificate applies to experiential programming for students of all ages and complements the field of Jewish family education. Credits earned toward the certificate may be applied toward a Master of Jewish Education with a specialization in Jewish Informal Education by approval of the Dean of the Shoolman Graduate School of Jewish Education. Additional application materials will be required for admission to the master's degree program.

CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS
Required Courses

• Lifespan Development and Case Studies (3 credits)
• Foundations in Jewish Congregational Education (2 credits)
• Models of Teaching in Jewish Education (3 credits)
• Seminar in Informal Jewish Education (3 credits)
• Bet Midrash for Jewish Educators (3 credits) or
• Understanding and Teaching Jewish Concepts in Adolescent and Adult Education (3 credits)
• Elective (2 credits): Students may elect to use Hebrew IV or Expository Writing for these two credits.

Select one of the following
Elective Courses:

• Tales of the Hasidim (3 credits)
• Spiritual Dimensions of Jewish Public Service (3 credits)
• Basic Nusah for Jewish Professionals (3 credits)

Informal Education Experience
In addition to the required courses, students will earn two credits of supervised practice in a variety of informal settings. Credits will be earned through participation in the YESOD network and a paper of reflective practice, as well as choosing two additional informal options, including:

• An approved Israel experience (Hebrew College does not fund the Israel experience trip or other required experience. There are a number of fully funded trips sponsored by the Boston Jewish community.)
• A leadership role in a 4-week (minimum) summer camping experience
• A leadership role in a Shabbat/retreat experience

Hebrew Proficiency
Each student must demonstrate proficiency in Hebrew language at Hebrew II level . Students can elect to take a placement exam to demonstrate Hebrew II level equivalency. While the required proficiency level is Hebrew II, we strongly encourage all students pursuing the certificate to achieve the equivalent of Hebrew IV.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university
• Official college or university transcripts
• Letter of recommendation

For more information about JEWISH INFORMAL EDUCATION, please contact the Office of Admissions at 617 559-8610 or email admissions@hebrewcollege.edu.