The Academy for Jewish Religion California (AJRCA) offers a broad spectrum of graduate-level programs designed to train compassionate, knowledgeable, and spiritually grounded Jewish leaders. Whether you are pursuing a career as a rabbi, cantor, chaplain, educator, lay leader or non-profit professional, the Academy provides a flexible, rigorous, and inclusive learning environment that supports both personal growth and professional excellence.
Three Professional Schools
AJRCA offers three primary professional programs:
- Rabbinical School: A comprehensive program grounded in Torah, Talmud, halacha, pastoral care, and leadership development. Students typically complete five years of study, culminating in rabbinic ordination and a Master’s Degree in Rabbinic Studies.
- Cantorial School: This program prepares students for musical and spiritual leadership in Jewish communities. Coursework includes nusach, repertoire, musicianship, music history, cantillation, and pastoral care.
- Chaplaincy School: For those called to spiritual care in hospitals, hospices, correctional facilities, and military contexts. The program includes Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), interfaith care training, and Jewish ethics.
Master of Jewish Studies Program
For learners seeking academic enrichment, spiritual growth, or preparation for community leadership, AJRCA’s Master of Jewish Studies (MJS) program offers a customizable curriculum in Jewish history, philosophy, texts, and traditions. MJS students are also able to gain knowledge in serving and navigating interfaith communities and connections.
Flexible Learning Options
Students may study on-campus or online, supported by a Sunday–Wednesday class schedule. Students participate in synchronous online classes and in-person retreats to build community and deepen spiritual practice.
AJRCA’s diverse programs are unified by a shared mission: to foster the development of ethical, inclusive, and deeply rooted Jewish leaders who serve with head, heart and hand in a wide range of communal settings.