30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

jewish seminary

If you’re looking for a college experience grounded in Jewish religion and values, consider a yeshiva or one of the Judaism-affiliated colleges and universities that we’ve ranked below. Whether you’re interested in studying the Talmud, becoming a rabbi, or earning a liberal arts degree in a religious environment, we’ve found a variety of Jewish schools that can meet your needs without emptying your pockets. Some will even allow you to study the Talmud online!

The yeshivas/yeshivot are most often all-male schools that lead to rabbinical ordination. They are usually small, private schools, as well as some of the cheapest colleges in New York! Some larger universities offer co-educational opportunities or women’s campuses.

To create this ranking, we sourced information from the National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator Database, the individual school’s website and other college resource websites listed at the end of this article. We started with a list of more than 40 Jewish colleges and universities offering faith-based higher education. Affordability is our No. 1 goal, so we narrowed it down and ranked the 30 cheapest colleges via their reported net costs. Gratz College and Hebrew College did not report net price information to NCES, so we listed their per-credit costs.

30. Gratz College

Melrose Park, PA

Net Cost: Gratz College didn’t report its net cost to NCES, but the undergraduate per credit cost is $783, and the graduate tuition ranges from $389 to $914 per credit. (Not including fees or financial aid)

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Founded in 1895, Gratz College is the “oldest independent and pluralistic college for Jewish studies in North America.” It’s also the first Jewish college to accept women on par with men. At Gratz, you can earn a degree completely online, and you can choose from a wide variety of degree programs at the following levels:

  • PhD and EdD
  • Masters’ level programs
  • BA completion programs
  • Graduate and undergraduate certificates

29. Hebrew College

Newton Centre, MA

Net Cost: Hebrew College didn’t report its net cost to NCES, but undergraduate tuition starts at $330 and $990 per credit. (Not including fees or financial aid)

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Founded in 1921, Hebrew College is private, not-for-profit and has a 7-acre hillside campus. Hebrew College is rooted in the Hebraist-Zionist movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but it is a self-dubbed “modern equivalent of Abraham’s tent, with all sides open to anyone who wishes to join our passionate pursuit of Jewish education.” It offers programs that lead to the following degrees:

  • PhD in Educational Studies (in conjunction with Lesley University)
  • Master of Arts in Jewish Studies
  • Master of Jewish Education
  • Master of Jewish Liberal Studies
  • Bachelor of Arts in Jewish Studies
  • Bachelor of Jewish Education
  • Cantorial Ordination
  • Rabbinic Ordination

28. Jewish Theological Seminary of America

New York, NY

Net Cost: $35,803

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Jewish Theological Seminary of America is an institute of Jewish higher learning grounded in conservative Judaism. JTS boasts the “most extensive Jewish studies program in North America.” Plus, it has a unique dual-degree program with Columbia University and Barnard College. JTS is a system of five different schools:

  • List College (Undergraduate)
  • The Rabbinical School
  • H. L. Miller Cantorial School
  • The William Davidson Graduate School of Jewish Education
  • The Gershon Kekst Graduate School

27. Brandeis University

Waltham, MA

Net Cost: $32,148

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Founded in 1948, Brandeis University is a private research university just nine miles outside of Boston. One of the very few co-educational universities on this list, this mid-sized college offers a wide variety of pre-college, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs. Brandeis has strong Jewish roots, reflecting the following values of the Jewish community:

  • Rigorous academics of the highest standard
  • Emphasis on critical thinking and self-criticism
  • Acceptance of nothing without study, debate and reflection
  • The ideal of making the world a better place through one’s actions and talents

26. Yeshiva University

New York, NY

Net Cost: $30,968

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Yeshiva University is a premier Jewish school for higher education that is made up of a number of undergraduate and graduate colleges. YU runs a system of four campuses, including the Stern College for Women in midtown Manhattan. YU’s undergraduate school’s curriculum combines Jewish studies with liberal arts and sciences courses.

25. Hebrew Theological College

Skokie, IL

Net Cost: $30,909

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Hebrew Theological College is housed with Fasman Yeshiva High School on a seven-acre campus within a quiet suburb. The college runs a women’s institute in Chicago in addition to the men’s campus in Skokie. HTC comes with a higher net cost, but it offers even more amenities, like:

  • The largest rabbinical library in the Midwest with 60,000 volumes
  • State-of-the-art computer lab
  • Science laboratory
  • Full-size gymnasium
  • New outdoor basketball court and renovated softball field
  • Dormitory with updated rooms and laundry
  • Full-service dining hall

24. American Jewish University

Los Angeles, CA

Net Cost: $28,389

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

In 2007, the American Jewish University began as two separate Jewish colleges: The University of Judaism and the Brandeis-Bardin Institute. Now one of the largest institutes of Jewish education, AJU offers the following and more:

  • Two campuses
  • Undergraduate and graduate programs
  • International students from countries like The Ukraine, Argentina and India
  • A youth camp for Jewish children
  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • Prre-medical education
  • Rabbinical Management Institute
  • Jewish Television Network (JTN)
  • Ostrow Library with over 120,000 volumes
  • Platt Art Gallery

23. Rabbinical College of Ohr Shimon Yisroel

Brooklyn, NY

Net Cost: $17,066

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Brooklyn’s most expensive college with Jewish affiliation on this list is the Rabbinical College of Ohr Shimon Yisroel. This small, private school offers a 15:1 student-teacher ratio, and it enrolls just under 200 students (undergraduate only). Accredited by the Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools, this rabbinical college has an open admissions policy.

22. Beis Medrash Heichal Dovid

Far Rockaway, NY

Net Cost: $13,424

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Beis Medrash Heichal Dovid is a four-year, private school for those interested in studying Judaism. According to NCES, the 124 students are working toward bachelor’s and doctoral degrees in Talmudic studies.

21. Talmudic University of Florida

Miami Beach. FL

Net Cost: $13,162

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Opened in 1974, the Talmudic University of Florida is a small college in Miami Beach that’s recognized for its community-building and leadership development. With fewer than 50 students, this college-level school for men is part of a community-based system of schools that focus on the study of Torah with an approach of “growth through learning.”

20. Ner Israel Rabbinical College

Baltimore, MD

Net Cost: $11,461

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Founded in 1933, Ner Israel Rabbinical College is an all-male Lithuanian-style Talmudic college that is politically affiliated with Agudath Israel of America, according to its Wikipedia page. Its campus is just northwest of the Baltimore City limits, and it offers on-campus housing. As an undergraduate student at this yeshiva university, you also have the opportunity to take night courses in a variety of academic fields, as well as earn academic credits toward your religious studies degree program at the following colleges:

  • Johns Hopkins University
  • Towson University
  • Loyola College in Maryland
  • University of Baltimore
  • University of Maryland, Baltimore County

19. Yeshiva Gedolah Imrei Yosef D’spinka

Brooklyn, NY

Net Cost: $11,304

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Yeshiva Gedolah Imrei Yosef D’spinka is a small, non-residential rabbinical college that offers a curriculum with a rich Halachic, Mussar and ethical background. It has a comprehensive program of Talmudic study and analysis. Graduates of this course receive a First Talmudic Degree and are prepared to enter the field of Jewish education. In its mission, as reported to NCES, this school explains that it offers a Lithuanian style of learning in a Chassidic atmosphere.

18. Mirrer Yeshiva Central Institute

Brooklyn, NY

Net Cost: $10,296

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A short driving distance from Manhattan Beach and the New York Aquarium, the Mirrer Yeshiva Central Institute is commonly known as the Mirrer Yeshiva. According to NCES, this is one of the few Orthodox Jewish schools that accepts AP and dual credits. Accredited by the Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools, Mirrer Yeshiva has fewer than 200 students and a 9:1 student-teacher ratio.

17. Yeshiva Shaar Hatorah

Kew Gardens, NY

Net Cost: $10,088

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Founded in 1974, Yeshiva Shaar Hatorah is a small, all-male college that offers high school programs, as well as undergraduate and graduate programs that result in Talmudic law degrees. Accredited by the Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools, this yeshiva is one of the more competitive colleges on this list, but maintains a 93 percent student retention rate. According to Wikipedia, the curriculum at this Jewish school focuses on the following:

  • Talmudic law
  • Aramaic texts
  • Theology
  • Philosophy
  • Epistemology

16. Yeshivath Beth Moshe

Scranton, PA

Net Cost: $9,965

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Founded in 1964, Yeshivath Beth Moshe is an Ultra-Orthodox Jewish high school and rabbinical college. It offers rabbinical and Talmudic studies, as well as other related academic areas. In addition to the campus’ main building, this small college has a Bookstore that is consistently updated with the latest curriculum-related materials, a Co-op store with many Kosher food options, a music room, and recreational courts. As a student, you have access to a large number of courses and training programs that will prepare you for careers in fields like:

  • Rabbinics (pulpit or congregational rabbis)
  • Jewish education (at the elementary, secondary and postsecondary levels)
  • School administration

15. Talmudical Yeshiva of Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA

Net Cost: $9,731

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Founded in 1953 as one of the first yeshivas in the U.S., Talmudical Yeshiva of Philadelphia is a Haredi Litvish yeshiva located in the Overbrook section of Philadelphia. This Jewish college is private and not-for-profit, offering a high school program and bachelor’s degree program, both centered on Talmudic studies. This undergraduate men’s college has 124 enrolled students, an 89 percent retention rate and 59 percent overall graduation rate.

14. United Talmudical Seminary

Brooklyn, NY

Net Cost: $9,100

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

The United Talmudical Seminary is a private rabbinical college for Satmar students. It offers on-campus housing and a bachelor’s degree program in Talmudic studies, as well as a graduate-level program. According to NCES, its total student enrollment is 2,624. It has an open admissions policy. Earning a degree at UTSNY will lead you into such careers as:

  • Rabbinic authorities
  • Dayanim
  • Talmud educators
  • Communal functionaries

13. Uta Mesivta of Kiryas Joel

Monroe, NY

Net Cost: $7,202

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The Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools accredits Uta Mesivta of Kiryas Joel, which offers a bachelor’s degree program in theology/Talmudic studies. It’s located within a large suburb, and the curriculum emphasizes the study of Talmud, Halacha and Hashkofa. Compared to other schools on this ranking, Uta Mesivta is a bit larger with 1,764 enrolled students, but its student-faculty ratio remains low at 10:1.

12. Rabbinical College of Telshe

Wickliffe, OH

Net Cost: $7,192

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Originally, the Rabbinical College of Telshe, or Telshe Yeshiva, was a famous Eastern European yeshiva founded in Lithuania in 1875, but it relocated to Ohio after World War II. Today, it’s one of the more prominent Haredi institutions in America for Talmud and Torah study. Fewer than 100 students enroll here annually, working toward a bachelor’s or master’s degree in theology.

11. Mesivtha Tifereth Jerusalem of America

New York, NY

Net Cost: $7,055

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One of the oldest yeshivot in New York City, Mesivtha Tifereth Jerusalem of America is located just a few blocks from the Manhattan Bridge and East River. The world-renowned Rabbi Moshe Feinstein once led MTJ, and it was passed down to his two sons, Rabbi Dovid Feinstein and Rabbi Reuven Feinstein. Today, MTJ enrolls fewer than 100 students. MTJ offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Talmudic studies, as well as master’s and doctoral programs in rabbinical studies.

10. Yeshiva College of the Nation’s Capital

Silver Spring, MD

Net Cost: $6,900

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

With just 33 enrolled undergraduate students, Yeshiva College of the Nation’s Capital boasts a “quality three seder yeshiva education on par with larger yeshivos,” while offering the personalized attention of such a small college. Here, you can earn a nationally accredited bachelor’s degree in Talmudic law (BTL) and take advantage of the following amenities local to campus:

  • Large, well-stocked kosher grocery store
  • Kosher bakery
  • Two kosher restaurants
  • A Judaica and book store

9. Yeshiva Gedolah Rabbinical College

Miami Beach, FL

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Net Cost: $6,623

Yeshiva Gedolah Rabbinical College opened in 1972 and currently enrolls around 30 students in rabbinical ordination programs. Students can also work toward bachelor’s and master’s degrees in rabbinic studies and Hebraic literature. This campus is less than two blocks from the sands of South Beach Miami. The main curriculum is comprised of:

  • Gemorah
  • Shulchan Aruch
  • Chassidus

8. Sh’or Yoshuv Rabbinical College

Lawrence, NY

Net Cost: $6,403

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Founded in 1967, Sh’or Yoshuv Rabbinical College is a Haredi Talmudic and rabbinical school offering a bachelor of Talmudic law in addition to its rabbinical ordination program. More than 100 students at this small private college enjoy an intimate 5:1 student-faculty ratio. On its campus, you’ll find:

  • A large Bais Medrash (study hall)
  • Classrooms
  • English and Hebrew libraries
  • Gymnasium
  • Student housing

7. Telshe Yeshiva-Chicago

Chicago, IL

Net Cost: $6,253

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Established in 1960 as a branch of the Ohio-based Rabbinical College of Telshe, Telshe Yeshiva-Chicago is a traditional school of higher Talmud learning. This four-year private college is very small, with fewer than 100 students enrolled. It offers an undergraduate degree program in Talmudic studies, as well as a graduate program, the second rabbinic degree. Residential and dining facilities are included on this campus.

6. Rabbinical Seminary of America

Flushing, NY

Net Cost: $5,915

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

The Rabbinical Seminary of America, also known as Yeshivas Chofetz Chaim of Queens, aims to provide high-caliber Torah education and train its students to serve in leadership positions for Jewish communities worldwide. According to The Princeton Review, RSA offers degree programs at the baccalaureate, graduate and doctorate levels, as well as post-baccalaureate and post-master’s certificates. RSA graduates have gone on to become

  • Rabbonim
  • Principals
  • Teachers
  • Outreach workers

5. Rabbinical College Bobover Yeshiva Bnei Zion

Brooklyn, NY

Net Cost: $3,759

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The first of five Jewish colleges with net costs below $4,000, the Rabbinical College Bobover Yeshiva Bnei Zion is a private, not-for-profit college with an incredibly affordable tuition. This classical school of higher Jewish learning has a mission and curriculum designed to “to pass on the rich heritage of Bible study, Talmud learning and Jewish thought.” Undergraduate students work toward a bachelor’s in Talmudic studies. Graduate students can complete one of two rabbinate programs: either to serve as a spiritual leader and Moreh Hoiroah for a community or congregation, or to serve as a scholar/teacher in a Talmudic college.

4. Mesivta Torah Vodaath Rabbinical Seminary

Brooklyn, NY

Net Cost: $3,567

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Located just outside of Brooklyn’s Borough Park, Mesivta Torah Vodaath Rabbinical Seminary is a small, private college for men interested in Rabbinical studies at the baccalaureate and post-graduate levels. According to NCES, this Jewish school offers the following:

  • Bachelor’s degree program in Talmudic studies
  • Post-graduate certificates in rabbinical studies, as well as theological and ministerial studies
  • Campus housing
  • 20:1 student-teacher ratio
  • Accreditation from the Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools
  • 80 percent student retention rate and 38 percent overall graduation rate

3. Rabbinical College Ohr Yisroel

Brooklyn, NY

Net Cost: $3,348

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

Accredited by the Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools, the Rabbinical College Ohr Yisroel is not-for-profit and located in the Canarsie neighborhood of Brooklyn. This small private college is home to 112 undergraduate students, all of whom are working toward a bachelor’s of religious studies degree or First Talmudic Degree. Almost 60 percent of students receive financial aid in the forms of Pell grants, federal grants and scholarships.

2. Talmudical Seminary of Bobov

Brooklyn, NY

Net Cost: $2,931

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

The Talmudical Seminary of Bobov is set within Borough Park in Brooklyn, home to one of the largest concentrations of Jews in America. We had trouble finding a website for the school, but NCES reports that this school trains undergraduate students in “the skills required for understanding, studying and mastering the Talmud and the considerable body of traditional Jewish thought.” It is a four-year, non-residential school that is private and not-for-profit. The school’s 380 all-male students work toward a bachelor’s degree in Talmudic studies. They enjoy a 12:1 student-faculty ratio as well as generous financial aid packages.

1. Kehilath Yakov Rabbinical Seminary

Ossining, NY

Net Cost: $2,726

30 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities Founded in Judaism

The Kehilath Yakov Rabbinical Seminary is a very small (around 155 total students), all-male rabbinical college. It’s accredited by the Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools. This private, not-for-profit college offers a four-year undergraduate program, “set to educate its students in Talmud, Halacha and Chassidus in a classroom setting,” according to what the school has reported to NCES. The school’s website doesn’t offer much as far as information about the college, but other sources say that it has the following:

  • Bachelor’s degree program in Talmudic studies
  • 15:1 student-faculty ratio
  • Historic village campus setting between the Hudson River and New Croton Reservoir on more than 100 acres
  • An open admission policy
  • On-campus housing for up to 130 students
  • 88 percent student retention rate and 65 percent overall graduation rate

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