American Jewish University, nestled in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, offers a diverse range of opportunities across its campuses. While our Bel Air location, known as the Familian Campus, has transitioned ownership, we continue to thrive with a leased space for the next three to five years, ensuring continuity for our programs and community. Our Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies now finds its home in the dynamic Pico Robertson area, enriching its surroundings with scholarly engagement and communal spirit.
Meanwhile, our Brandeis Bardin Campus remains a cornerstone of our institution, maintaining its sprawling 2,700-acre expanse in Simi Valley. Embracing a picturesque landscape reminiscent of a kibbutz, BBC invites exploration with its tranquil hiking trails, camping grounds, and diverse wildlife. From roaming horses to tranquil gardens, the BBC offers an immersive experience that echoes the essence of Israel.
At American Jewish University, we are dedicated to serving the entire community, welcoming individuals of all backgrounds, beliefs, and denominations. Whether you're a college student, aspiring rabbi, or simply someone seeking enriching educational experiences, we invite you to discover our wealth of programs and the profound impact we make on the world. Come, explore our campuses and their beautiful surroundings, and join our extended community in shaping a brighter future together.
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Brandeis-Bardin Campus
Brandeis-Bardin Campus - Simi Valley, California
The Brandeis-Bardin Campus is as much a feeling as it is a place. Located in Simi Valley, California and committed to the artistic, cultural, intellectual and environmental pursuits of the Jewish people, the campus strives to ‘touch and teach’ every individual who comes down Peppertree Lane.
The Brandeis Camp Institute was named to honor our nation’s first Jewish Supreme Court Justice, Louis D. Brandeis, and in 1947, Brandeis Camp Institute purchased 2,200 acres of land in the foothills of the Santa Susana (now Simi Valley) California. To Dr. Bardin, the rolling hills on the property were reminiscent of the Judean Hills outside of Jerusalem.
The name of the Institute was changed to The Brandeis-Bardin Institute in August 1977, to honor the memory of its founder, Dr. Shlomo Bardin. Known today as the Brandeis-Bardin Campus of the American Jewish University, it is believed to be the largest parcel of land owned by a Jewish community institution outside the State of Israel.
The Brandeis-Bardin campus is home to the beloved Camp Alonim, the Ziering Brandeis Camp Institute, and a comprehensive conference and events center. The campus offers unique spaces for lifecycle events such as b’nai mitzvot and Jewish weddings, religious and educational retreats and conferences.
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Familian Campus
Sunny & Isadore Familian Campus
The Familian Campus, sold in 2024 to the Milken Community School, is set atop a rustic mountain range and spread over 22-acres in one of Los Angeles’ most desirable neighborhoods. This unique location offers impressive panoramic views of the San Fernando Valley. The Familian Campus is conveniently located in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, at a midpoint between the Los Angeles basin and the San Fernando Valley areas. The campus location, just off the 405 and 101 freeways, provides easy access to campus from all over Los Angeles.
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Ziegler Campus
Ziegler Campus - Beverly Hills
The newest AJU location, the Ziegler Campus is located in Beverly Hills, adjacent to the Pico-Robertson community of Los Angeles. The new 7700 sq. ft. space is located at 350 South Beverly Dr. on the corner of Olympic and Beverly, and features a library, private offices for tenured faculty, shared workspaces, classrooms, a conference room, and Beit Midrash, and is designed for collaboration and communal gathering. The strategic move to this part of Los Angeles aligns with Ziegler’s mission to cultivate a strong sense of Jewish community and provides a dynamic learning environment that benefits both students and faculty. The new location is within walking distance of multiple Kosher restaurants, synagogues, and Jewish institutions, which will immerse Ziegler students into the cadence of urban Jewish life and foster a rich Ziegler community.
