Founded in 1937, it was named for Yeshiva University's first president, Bernard Revel, upon his death in 1940.
Its curriculum prepares highly trained teachers, researchers, and scholars in Jewish studies and emphasizes the critical analysis of primary sources, studies in methodology, and extensive readings in secondary literature.
Arthur Hyman was replaced as Revel's dean by David Berger in 2008, though he maintained the position of Distinguished Service Professor of Philosophy until his death in 2017.
The School offers the following degree programs: The Harry Fischel School for Higher Jewish Studies, established in 1945, offers the Revel program during the summer, with courses taught by distinguished visiting scholars, many from Israeli universities.
[1] Classes are held at Yeshiva University's Wilf Campus in New York City’s Washington Heights neighborhood.