Jerry Hansen was born in Munich, Germany and was raised in several places, the most formative years being in Nebraska, Iowa, and Flagstaff, Arizona. He served a mission in France and Switzerland from 1974 to 1976. He received his B.A. in English literature from Eastern Oregon State College and his M.A. in English literature from BYU.

Jerry taught released-time seminary for five years in Kuna, Idaho, then became the Institute director at Purdue University from 1984 to 1988. He joined the Religion Department at BYUI as a teacher in 1988. Besides teaching numerous scripture courses, Jerry established and taught the Christian History and World Religion courses for many years. He was head of Ricks College General Education Committee from 1990 to 1994. In addition, he was the director of the International Studies program at BYUI from 2002 to 2005.

In 2008, Jerry joined the History and Political Science department at BYUI. Among the courses that he teaches for that department is a class on Western European Peoples and Cultures.

Jerry has directed over a half-dozen tours to Europe for both students and adults. Married to Sharlene Wilkerson, he and his wife have eight children.