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Summer Language Institute

Step into History: Embark on a Linguistic Adventure!

We invite you to participate in the Summer Language Institute hosted by the Department of Religious Studies, where you can engage in a profound exploration of the languages of the past. Our intensive, introductory courses in Sanskrit and Biblical Hebrew are meticulously designed to immerse you in the rich heritage of these ancient tongues.

Whether you seek to enhance your understanding of sacred texts or explore the cultural contexts that shaped these languages, our Spring and Summer terms provide an excellent opportunity to deepen your knowledge and appreciation.

Don’t miss this chance to explore history and enrich your understanding of languages!

Enrol now

Information Box Group

Also open to students outside of McMaster and for listeners!

If you’re a student from another university, you can apply to take McMaster courses for credit at your home institution. Incoming visiting students will need a Letter of Permission from their current school.

For more details about this process, please see the Visiting Student/Letter of Permission (LOP) page.

If you are not a student but interested in joining the Summer Language Institute as a listener, please visit McMaster’s Listener, Auditor & Sponsored Students page for more information.

Program Details

Course Options

Students have the flexibility to enroll in either the Spring term (seven weeks) or both the Spring and Summer terms (14 weeks) for university course credit.

Current Courses:

  • Hebrew 2A03/SCAR 2HC3: Intro to Hebrew I
  • Hebrew 2B03/SCAR 2HD3: Introduction to Hebrew II
  • SANS 2A03/SCAR 2SK3: Introduction to Sanskrit I
  • SANS 2B03/SCAR 2SB3: Intro to Sanskrit II

Course Focus

Our courses emphasize the fundamentals of grammar, pronunciation, translation, and reading comprehension.

Additionally, students will explore the cultural, historical, and religious contexts that enrich their understanding of these ancient languages.

Format

Courses are offered in a remote synchronous format during the Spring and Summer terms.

Specific course dates and times will be announced in the new year, with registration opening March 19, 2025.

Term Dates

  • Spring Term: May 5 – June 20, 2025
  • Summer Term: June 23 – August 8, 2025