College of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences
Welcome to the College of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences (CHASS)
At CHASS, we remember where we come from. As the original college of Detroit Mercy — founded in 1877 — we carry forward generations of thinkers, changemakers, artists and advocates who shaped our University and city. That legacy inspires everything we do.
We welcome you into something bold. We’re proud to be the only university with Detroit in our name — because we live, learn and lead in a city that drives innovation, resilience and creativity. Here, your voice matters. Your questions matter. Your dreams matter.
And most of all, we want you to belong. CHASS is a home for every student ready to explore the world and themselves through the humanities, arts and social sciences. Our classrooms are communities. Our faculty are dedicated mentors. Our programs are launching pads. No matter your background, we see your potential — and we’re here to help you realize it.
Let’s build something unforgettable together.
CHASS News and Events
Spotlight: FOX 2 highlights Criminal Justice student’s work in poetry and literacy
Detroit Mercy student Liberty Brooke Stevens is making an impact through advocacy for literacy, creative expression and social justice. The Criminal Justice and Intelligence Analysis major recently appeared on FOX 2 Detroit to discuss her newly published chapbook, 'God is a Lesbian,' and her work promoting youth literacy through RX for Reading.
On July 27, Department Co-Chair and Professor of History Roy Finkenbine presented “Searching for Jordan Anderson” to the Michigan Regimental Civil War Roundtable at the …
Spotlight: Industrial-Organizational Psychology student gains real-world experience at Rocket
UDM student Lance Poole is building his professional skills this summer through a learning and development internship at Rocket, where he is gaining valuable experience at the company’s downtown Detroit headquarters.
UDM ranks #36 in U.S.
#27 Social Mobility
#22 Nationally Best Value Schools
Connect with Our Students. Find Your Place.
Meet the CHASS Student Ambassadors — our passionate team of student leaders and peer mentors who help you connect, explore and thrive at Detroit Mercy.
Our Ambassadors make CHASS a welcoming and vibrant community where everyone belongs.
What We Do:
- Discover Detroit Series hosts lead off-campus adventures that connect students with the city’s arts, culture and community.
- Peer mentors for first-year students help you navigate classes, campus life and your first year of college.
- On-campus event hosts, campus tour leaders and storytellers bring energy and connection to every CHASS event.
- CHASS TikTok Creators share authentic stories and student life moments in real time.
- Community builders celebrate creativity, connection and community spirit.
@detmercychass
⬆️ See CHASS through our students’ eyes!
Advising with Intention. Mentorship for Life.
Our faculty and advisors aren’t just here to help you register for classes — they’re dedicated mentors who walk beside you from your first semester to graduation and beyond.
- Individualized academic advising, tailored to your goals
- One-on-one mentorship with expert faculty
- Career and graduate school coaching
- Lifelong alumni connections
25+ Majors and Minors
Undergraduate programs that shape futures.
Established in 1877
Detroit Mercy’s original college.
20+ Pathways to Grad School
From Cybersecurity to Counseling to Clinical Psychology.