Areas of Focus

In addition to completing our rigorous curriculum, each master’s student at the William Davidson Graduate School of Jewish Education selects a specific area of focus:

  • Pedagogy and Teaching
  • Educational Leadership

Within the two areas of focus of Educational Leadership and Pedagogy and Teaching, there is opportunity for students to work with their academic advisors to craft concentrations that align with areas of professional interest.

By drawing upon Judaica and education and electives at both JTS and Teachers College, and through a practicum site, students can focus on a particular area of Jewish education, including: early childhood education; disabilities inclusion; Israel engagement; adult learning; arts education. 

Pedagogy and Teaching

Individuals focused on Pedagogy and Teaching learn to develop their teaching practice, immersing themselves in the educational experience and preparing to inspire generations of Jewish students.

This area of focus is designed for people looking to gain the expertise and experience to become hands-on educators, ready to transmit their passion for Jewish learning to the next generation.

Practicum and course work

A hallmark of The William Davidson School’s master’s curriculum is the yearlong practicum in which students participate in a customized field placement at partnering schools in the metropolitan area. The practicum consists of 16 hours of field work per week, individual mentoring, and a weekly seminar—specific to the Pedagogy and Teaching concentration—in which students reflect and build upon their experience with their instructor and peers.

Students in our Pedagogy and Teaching area of focus have had practicum placements at leading institutions such as Heschel Community Day School, Solomon Schechter Day School of Manhattan, and Hannah Senesh Community Day School.

To learn more about Pedagogy and Teaching requirements, specific courses, and practicum placements, please visit the Academic Bulletin

 

Educational Leadership

Our Educational Leadership area of focus prepares students to become effective administrators, directors, and leaders in synagogues, communal agencies, and informal and entrepreneurial settings across denominations and throughout North America.

Students receive a unique education in leadership, management, strategy, and entrepreneurship—all supported by a solid grounding in education and Jewish studies.

Practicum and course work

During the second year of the program, students participate in a yearlong, customized field placement at partnering organizations in the metropolitan area. This practicum consists of 10 hours of field work per week, individual mentoring, and a weekly seminar—specific to Educational Leadership —in which students discuss and reflect upon their field experiences. 

Students concentrating in Educational Leadership have been placed at renowned institutions such as URJ, the JCC in Manhattan, and the Museum of Jewish Heritage.  

To learn more about Educational Leadership requirements, specific courses, and practicum placements, please visit the Academic Bulletin.