Talmudic Studies: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Designed for students committed to deep intellectual engagement with one of the most influential texts in Jewish tradition, this program centers on the rigorous analysis of the Talmud. Through sustained study of its legal, ethical, and philosophical dimensions, learners develop advanced reasoning abilities, ethical discernment, and scholarly precision applicable across diverse academic and professional paths.
- Jewish Law (Halakha): Explores the foundational legal framework derived from the Talmud, examining how religious precepts are interpreted, applied, and adapted across historical and contemporary contexts.
- Jewish Jurisprudence: Investigates the methods and principles used in Talmudic reasoning, including dialectical debate, precedent, and legal argumentation, to understand the evolution of legal thought.
- Ethics and Moral Philosophy: Engages with Talmudic narratives and rulings to analyze questions of justice, responsibility, character development, and the moral obligations within communal and personal life.
- Textual Analysis and Exegesis: Trains students in close reading techniques, linguistic precision, and the historical-critical interpretation of complex rabbinic texts across multiple generations.
- Philosophical Inquiry: Examines how Talmudic discourse intersects with broader philosophical traditions, including metaphysics, epistemology, and the nature of truth and authority.
Talmudic Studies Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Talmudic Studies Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Talmudic Studies degrees, including Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 20,840 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1126 | $78,050 | $47,550 - $134,910 | 20,840 | N/A |
Salary Comparison
Talmudic Studies Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $40,340 in South Dakota to $103,210 in California—a 156% difference. The highest-paying states include California, New York, and Maine. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 20,840 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Talmudic Studies by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 85 institutions offering Talmudic Studies programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Talmudic Studies is found at Beth Medrash Govoha (BMG) (1,600 graduates), Uta Mesivta of Kiryas Joel (UTAM) (476 graduates), United Talmudical Seminary (324 graduates), Central Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim Lubavitz (170 graduates), and Yeshivath Viznitz (99 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 4,730 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Talmudic Studies programs
How much can I earn with a Talmudic Studies degree?
Salaries for Talmudic Studies graduates vary by role and location. Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary earn a median of $78,050 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $103,210 compared to $40,340 in South Dakota. Approximately 20,840 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Talmudic Studies programs?
Currently 86 accredited institutions offer Talmudic Studies degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Beth Medrash Govoha (BMG) (1,600 graduates), Uta Mesivta of Kiryas Joel (UTAM) (476 graduates), and United Talmudical Seminary (324 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Talmudic Studies degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary. Related occupations employ approximately 20,840 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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