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
Theatre Company presents one-night TheatreLab reading, March 19
The Detroit Mercy Theatre Company presents five actors, three short plays and one night of a special TheatreLab reading on Thursday, March 19, at 7:30 p.m., in the new Detroit Mercy Black Box Theatre. This event is free and open to all.
Post-Graduate Certificate in Addiction Studies to hold virtual info session, March 25
For those interested in advancing expertise in addiction studies, bring your questions to Detroit Mercy’s upcoming virtual information session, March 25, to explore the Post Graduate Certificate in Addiction Studies program.
Award-winning author Jim Daniels to read at UDM, March 17
This year's Michigan Author Award winner Jim Daniels will visit the McNichols Campus on March 17 for a reading and conversation about his work, including his newest collection, 'Late Invocation for Magic: New and Selected Poems.'
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.
@udmchass
⬆️ 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.