Jasper Campus - College of Humanities

Welcome to the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences

Explore programs designed for students who want to understand people, serve communities, and make a meaningful impact. VU’s Humanities and Social Sciences programs help students build strong skills in communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and cultural awareness while preparing for transfer opportunities and a wide range of career paths. With supportive faculty, affordable options, and courses that connect learning to real-world experiences, students can begin building a future with purpose.

Our Programs

Students in a classroom using computers

General Studies

The General Studies program at VU Jasper gives students a flexible pathway to explore interests, complete general education courses, and build a strong academic foundation. Students develop communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while preparing to transfer, pursue a bachelor’s degree, or choose a more specific academic or career path
A student is asking other students a question in the hallway

Human Services Certificate

The Human Services Certificate at VU Jasper prepares students to support individuals, families, and communities through entry-level helping roles. Coursework introduces students to human services, social issues, communication, and support strategies. This certificate is a strong option for students who want to begin building skills for careers in social services, community agencies, or related fields.
Students in a lecture hall

Behavioral Sciences

The Behavioral Sciences program at VU Jasper explores how people think, behave, interact, and develop within society. Students study topics in psychology, sociology, and human behavior while building strong communication, research, and critical thinking skills. This program prepares students for transfer opportunities and future careers in counseling, social services, education, human resources, and related fields.
Student sitting in Psychology class

Psychology

The Psychology program at VU Jasper helps students understand human thoughts, emotions, development, and behavior. Through coursework in psychological theory, research, and human interaction, students build skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. This program is a strong starting point for students interested in counseling, mental health, social services, education, or continued study in psychology.
Students and an instructor in a Sociology claa

Sociology

The Sociology program at VU Jasper focuses on people, communities, cultures, and social systems. Students explore topics such as social issues, group behavior, family, diversity, and community change while developing strong research, communication, and critical thinking skills. Graduates are prepared to transfer and continue toward careers in social services, community organizations, education, public service, and related fields

A student is asking two students questions in a foyer

Social Work

The Social Work program at VU Jasper is designed for students who want to help individuals, families, and communities overcome challenges and access support. Students build a foundation in human behavior, social issues, communication, and service-focused practice. This pathway prepares students for transfer and continued study toward careers in social work, advocacy, case management, and community support.
A student doing her homework ourside on a table

Liberal Arts

The Liberal Arts program at VU Jasper gives students a broad academic foundation while helping them strengthen skills in communication, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. Students explore courses across humanities, social sciences, and general education while preparing for transfer, continued study, or a wide range of career paths that value adaptable, well-rounded thinkers.

our faculty
real, relevant, committed to you

John Thurgood smiling

John Thurdgood, Ph.D. Academic Area Coordinator

additional staff

Holly Vonderheit
Dennis Dahlen
Tracy Uebelhor
Taylor Scott
Jenna Jones
Kaitlin Strange
Stacy Moore-Nolan

Ready to Begin?