Spertus College

Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership stands as a distinguished private, not-for-profit graduate institution dedicated to advancing Jewish knowledge and empowering leaders. With a focused student body of just 130, Spertus offers an intimate and rigorous academic environment where individuals can deepen their understanding of Jewish culture, history, and thought, preparing them for impactful roles within the Jewish community and broader society.

Established in 1924 as Chicago's College of Jewish Studies, Spertus has a rich and evolving history. Its renaming to Spertus College in 1970, honoring the generous contributions of brothers Maurice and Herman Spertus, marked a significant milestone. Over the decades, the institution adapted its name to reflect its expanding mission, culminating in its current identity as the Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership in 2013, solidifying its commitment to both academic excellence and practical leadership development.

Spertus's academic strengths are deeply rooted in its legacy of attracting and fostering intellectual giants. During and after World War II, it served as a vital academic home for renowned refugee scholars from Nazi-occupied Europe, including figures like Dr. Fritz Bamberger, Simon Rawidowicz, and Nahum N. Glatzer. This tradition of scholarly excellence continues, with Spertus regularly hosting a diverse array of influential presenters and honorary degree recipients, from Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Nobel laureates Elie Wiesel and Isaac Bashevis Singer, to contemporary thought leaders like Nate Silver and Thomas Friedman. This vibrant intellectual atmosphere enriches the student experience, providing unparalleled opportunities for learning and networking.

For prospective students and their families, Spertus offers a unique opportunity to engage in graduate-level Jewish studies within a supportive and stimulating environment. The institute prides itself on fostering leadership, critical thinking, and a deep appreciation for Jewish heritage, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to their communities and professions.