Hebrew (Modern)

olives in a market in Israel

The Greatest Experiment in Linguistics

Modern Hebrew is a unique language in the sense that it was a dead language between the second and twentieth centuries but is currently the first language of seven million speakers. Thus, to study Hebrew is to study the greatest experiment in linguistics. Modern Hebrew is also a gateway to older languages such as Biblical Hebrew and Rabbinical Hebrew. 

PSU's Modern Hebrew minor prepares you to become a proficient user of Modern Hebrew and develop a basic knowledge of Israeli cultures by introducing you to the language, peoples, and histories of the modern Hebrew-speaking world. You can pair the Modern Hebrew minor with a major in Judaic Studies or History, or use it as preparation for graduate studies. Our students have gone on to attend graduate school in Israel and the U.S., as well as live and work in Israel. A minor in Hebrew can open doors to many career opportunities, including translation, conflict resolution, education, business, international development and affairs, public policy, and travel and tourism.

Undergraduate Programs

Upcoming Hebrew Courses

Advising and Placement

Visit the Hebrew Advising and Placement page for instructions on how to:

  • Take a placement test, if you have previously taken Modern Hebrew and have questions about which course is appropriate for you
  • Request a faculty advisor for minors, if you plan to minor in Hebrew
  • Access the Modern Hebrew minor advising worksheet

Hebrew Tutoring Services

  • The Department of World Languages and Literatures offers drop-in tutoring services for 100- and 200-level language students. See the schedule here. Non-PSU students, please see our list of community tutors and translators here

Hebrew Scholarships

Study Abroad

PSU's Education Abroad offers study abroad programs in Israel.

Second Language Requirements