FAQs

The College for Contemporary Judaism is the vision of a dedicated team of rabbis, professors, and lay leaders who know how to educate rabbis, build institutions, and serve the Jewish community. We have spent years researching Jewish community needs and interviewing rabbis, students, and young professionals. CCJ has the history, tradition, academic resources, and determination to build a school of higher Jewish learning that will grow and sustain rabbinical education for generations to come.

Is CCJ affiliated with a particular denomination?

The school is not affiliated with any denomination. CCJ will be a school for Liberal Judaism, open to all who share its principles.

Will graduates of CCJ's rabbinic school receive Ordination?

Yes. After successfully completing CCJ’s rabbinic school curriculum, graduates will be ordained “Rabbi” by our school’s President on behalf of the faculty.

What types of degrees will you offer?

Initially, we will be awarding the following degrees:
M.A.H.L. – Master of Arts in Hebrew Letters
M.J.S. – Master in Jewish Studies

Will CCJ receive accreditation for the degrees it will be granting?

We are committed to attaining full accreditation from a recognized accrediting body, and authorization from the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

What will my rabbinic education cost?

CCJ will offer full scholarships for rabbinic education along with living stipends.

Does the program incorporate virtual or hybrid learning?

CCJ will incorporate virtual learning as appropriate to enhance our in-residence program.

CCJ is rooted in the timeless rabbinic tradition of collective, experiential learning. We believe effective rabbinic education, like medicine or law, depends on in-person study that builds collegiality, practical skills, and spiritual depth. It allows students to study, worship, and problem-solve as a community while receiving close mentorship from faculty. It also allows for practical, hands-on experience in liturgy, counseling, and leadership. This deeply relational approach will better equip CCJ graduates to cultivate vibrant Jewish congregations and communities.

What is CCJ’s position on Israel?

CCJ affirms the deep and historic bonds between Jews everywhere and the land, people, and State of Israel, and we recognize Israel’s profound significance to our educational mission. Our study programs in Israel are intended to provide our students with Hebrew proficiency and engagement with Israeli society, deepening their understanding of the country and preparing them to teach and speak knowledgeably in the communities they serve. Diverse views on Israel’s political, cultural, and religious character are expected in our academic community, which will nurture an atmosphere of respectful dialogue. The College has an unwavering commitment to the existence and well-being of the Jewish and democratic State of Israel.