Classes, Seminars & Programs

Throughout the year, YIVO offers courses in Yiddish and Jewish history and culture and that are open to registration from the general public, as well as special graduate and post-graduate seminars.

The Uriel Weinreich Program in Yiddish Language, Literature, and Culture, established in 1968, is the oldest intensive Yiddish summer program in the world. It is now held in conjunction with Bard College. The Winter Program on Ashkenazi Civilization, offered as both adult education and for credit, is also a joint YIVO-Bard College project.

In January 2016, YIVO launched the first course in its new Shine Online Educational Series, Discovering Ashkenaz: Jewish Life in Eastern Europe, to rave reviews. Over 3,500 people from more than 50 countries registered. YIVO’s second online course, Folksong, Demons, and the Evil Eye: Folklore of Ashkenaz, launched in January 2017. YIVO’s third online course, Oh Mama, I’m in Love! The Story of the Yiddish Stage, launched in May 2018.