American Jewish University Announces Groundbreaking Degree Programs to Advance Inclusion and Strengthen Jewish Leadership

LOS ANGELES – The Masor School for Jewish Education and Leadership at American Jewish University (AJU) announces the launch of two transformative graduate programs designed to address critical needs in Jewish education and communal leadership: the Master of Arts in Early Childhood Special Education and Inclusion, and the Doctorate in Education (EdD) in Jewish Education and Communal Leadership. These programs mark AJU’s continued commitment to empowering Jewish educators and leaders to create meaningful, inclusive, and impactful communities.

The need for inclusion and specialized support for children with developmental delays and disabilities is more urgent than ever. According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 6 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with developmental challenges, underscoring the importance of equipping educators with expertise in fostering inclusive environments.

To meet this growing demand, AJU’s Masor School is introducing the Master of Arts in Early Childhood Special Education and Inclusion. Launching in Fall 2025, this program will train educators to create supportive and inclusive learning spaces in Jewish early childhood centers and beyond. Students will gain practical tools and advanced knowledge to ensure that every child, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and fully participate in their communities.

Recognizing the evolving challenges and opportunities facing Jewish organizations, AJU is also launching the Doctorate in Education (EdD) in Jewish Education and Communal Leadership, pending review and approval by WSCUC. Tailored for experienced professionals, this cutting-edge program will prepare leaders to innovate, drive systemic change, and advance the impact of Jewish education and communal institutions. Set to begin in 2025, the EdD JECL will focus on equipping leaders with the strategic, evidence-based, and visionary skills required to address today’s complexities and build a vibrant Jewish future.

“Jewish leaders today are searching for the tools to create lasting, positive change within their organizations,” said Dr. Bruce Powell, Dean of the Masor School for Jewish Education and Leadership. “The EdD JECL program combines strategic thinking, evidence-based practices, and a focus on systemic transformation, empowering professionals to tackle challenges, seize opportunities, and make a profound impact on the Jewish community.”

Dr. Powell further emphasized the critical role of early childhood educators: “Through our Master’s program, we aim to empower educators to foster inclusivity and compassion in their classrooms. By doing so, they’ll lay the foundation for stronger, more equitable communities.”

The Masor School is a pillar of American Jewish University’s mission to nurture and sustain the next generation of Jewish educators and leaders. With a focus on innovation, inclusion, and leadership, the school is shaping the future of Jewish education and ensuring a thriving Jewish community for generations to come.

For more information on these programs and how to apply, please visit aju.edu.

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About AJU: American Jewish University (AJU) is a thriving center of resources and talent that advances the Jewish journeys of individuals, organizations, and our community through excellence in scholarship, teaching, engaged conversation, and outreach. AJU equips students, faculty, campers, and learners of all ages with the tools to create the ideas, build the structures, and develop the programs to advance Jewish wisdom and elevate our world. For more information, visit www.aju.edu.