Tech Professionals and Younger Audiences Drive Growth in Jewish Studies
Data from the Schechter Institute reveals a growing interest in Jewish studies among tech and management professionals, alongside a younger average student age and geographic expansion.
More managers, high-tech professionals, and residents of central Israel are turning to Jewish studies, according to data published on Monday by the Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem ahead of the upcoming academic year.
The data, which summarizes the past five years, indicates an increase in new student enrollment and a shift in sought-after fields of study. According to the figures, the number of new students at the institute rose by about 15% between 2024 and 2025, and by an additional 8% between 2025 and 2026. This represents a cumulative growth of about 25% within two years and marks the second consecutive year of increased enrollment.
Younger Demographics and Tech Professionals
Alongside the rise in student numbers, a consistent decline in the average age was recorded. In 2023, the average age stood at 56.4, dropping to 53.3 in 2024, 51.5 in 2025, and 50.2 in 2026. Overall, the average age of students has decreased by more than six years within a three-year period.
Among respondents who reported their profession, the number of individuals coming from management, high-tech, and organizational backgrounds surged by about 130% in a single year. Their share among all respondents rose from about 16% in 2025 to roughly 34% in 2026. For the first time in five years, this group surpassed students from education professions, which historically formed the core demographic for Jewish studies.
"The data shows that Jewish studies are no longer the exclusive domain of a single audience or a specific stage in life," said Prof. Ari Ackerman, President of the Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies.
Geographic Expansion and Program Shifts
The geographic distribution of students has also evolved. The proportion of respondents residing in the Gush Dan, Sharon, and central regions grew from about 18% in 2024 to 31% in 2026—a 13% increase over two years. While residents of Jerusalem and its surrounding areas still constitute the largest group, institute officials note the trend reflects an expansion beyond traditional Jerusalem-based audiences.
Significant shifts were also observed in academic program choices. Between 2024 and 2026, enrollment in Jewish Thought programs jumped by approximately 333%. The 'Maase Choshev' program in Jewish art saw a 100% increase, while programs focusing on Jerusalem and the Land of Israel grew by about 33%.
Michal Makov-Peled, CEO of the Schechter Institute, added that the changing student profile requires adapting the study experience for individuals engaged in active careers. "The drop in average age and the growth in management and tech professionals demonstrate a strong demand for Jewish studies outside traditional circles," she concluded.
