Our psychology and sociology programs create graduates who understand today's complex social issues. A degree in psychology or sociology will prepare you for a variety of careers.

Department of Psychology and Sociology
About the Department
The Department of Psychology and Sociology prepares students for careers in public and social services, education, health, and advanced studies in professional or graduate schools. We are dedicated to quality educational experiences, student research, and community service. Our faculty collaborate with students on research projects and provide opportunities to participate in regional service and community outreach.
As a student here, you’ll gain greater insight into today’s complex social issues and appreciation for various sociocultural backgrounds. Through development of social competencies and better understanding of the human condition, you’ll be able to positively contribute to an increasingly diverse society. Through student research and participation in community service, we strive to improve the lives of individuals and our surrounding communities.
Nationally Ranked Programs

No. 1 in Nebraska, Top 1% in the U.S.
Top Ranked Human Development and Family Studies College, 2019
College Factual

Top Ranked Human Development and Family Studies College, 2019
No. 1 in Nebraska, Top 1% in the U.S.
College Factual
Wayne State College performed very well in a recent ranking of Human Development & Family Studies programs. College Factual ranks programs offered by four-year colleges and universities and has recently updated its rankings. WSC’s programs in this category have been ranked #1 in Nebraska for 2019. This makes us the best in the state.
Human development and family studies looks to understand how people develop and relationships form in society. It studies the cognitive, emotional, social and physical development of people throughout different stages. Classes you may take when studying HDFS could include: child guidance and parenting, contemporary family issues, multiethnic society, early childhood education, human sexuality, child development, lifespan development, psychology, and sociology.
College Factual, located in Troy, New York, is a leading source of college data analytics and insights, with a strong focus on student outcomes. Its mission is to help all types of students discover their best-fit college and major so they can enjoy their college experience and graduate with less debt. College Factual provides coverage for over 2,500 colleges and universities, 350 college majors, for students in over 160 countries. Learn more about College Factual.

Recognized for Excellence
Best Colleges of Distinction, 2022-23
Colleges of Distinction

Best Colleges of Distinction, 2022-23
Recognized for Excellence
Colleges of Distinction
Wayne State College has been named as a College of Distinction. Colleges of Distinction honors and recognizes the hundreds of smaller, teaching-centered colleges that make up the fabric of the American educational system, schools that deliver well four overarching distinctions — Engagement, Teaching, Community, and Outcomes — which are the fundamental elements of an effective undergraduate education.
To be designated a “college of distinction,” a school’s curriculum must emphasize such core competencies as critical thinking, writing, oral skills, research, and global perspectives. They must also offer dynamic out-of-classroom learning and study abroad programs. The process is objective, in-depth, and qualitative; however, quantitative data such as class-size statistics, faculty-to-student ratio, plus retention and four-year graduation rates are also taken into account.

“The professors in the department are really good at making sure they are there for their students and really seem to care about them on a more personal level. They also are very passionate about what they are teaching, which can really influence how students perceive the classes. On many occasions, I have stayed after class to have one on one conversations with the professors. They always seem to make time for their students. Overall, I am very pleased with all the professors and the department.”
Abigail Steffen
Majors: Psychology, Sociology
Hometown: Crofton, Neb.
Psychology and Sociology Degree Programs
Choose from majors in the Psychology and Sociology Department, or enhance your education by adding on a second major or minor. Explore your options here.
Program Name | Bachelor's | Pre-Professional or Affiliate | Master's | Minor | Education Field Endorsement | Education Subject Endorsement | Supplemental Endorsement |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Interdisciplinary Studies | Explore | Explore | Explore | ||||
Nursing (Accelerated) | Explore | ||||||
Psychology | Explore | Explore | |||||
Psychology Education (7-12) | Explore | ||||||
Social Sciences | Explore | Explore | |||||
Social Sciences Education - Online Master's Degree Option (MSE) | Explore | ||||||
Sociology | Explore | Explore | |||||
Sociology Education (7-12) | Explore |
Outside the Classroom
At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education in the psychology and sociology degree programs by participating in clubs, organizations, and more.

Clubs and Organizations
- Active Minds
- Alpha Kappa Delta (Sociology Honor Society)
- Psi Chi (International Honor Society)
- Psychology/Sociology Club
- Pi Gamma Mu (Social Sciences Honorary)

Service-Learning
Make a difference in the community while learning skills you can apply toward your future career. Wayne State’s Service-Learning program has received national awards in recognition of outstanding community service, with more than 400 students participating in Service-Learning projects each semester.

Opportunities
- Research projects – Conduct your own research projects and present your work at area symposiums and conferences.
- Contribute to a cause – Help promote historical awareness, civic engagement, diversity, and opportunity through events like Constitution Day, the Voter Registration Drive, and Multicultural Affairs.

Internships/Clinicals
We encourage all students to complete an internship before graduating, to gain experience in this field of study. Before graduating, you’ll have a chance to work with local agencies. Career Services is also available to help you find the best internship opportunities.

“The Department of Psychology and Sociology consists of scholars and practitioners dedicated to the study of individual and group behavior, mental processes, cultural diversity, and social change. We attract students who are curious about the inner lives of individuals and the social world. We teach analytical thinking, research design and analysis, and effective writing and communication skills. We prepare students for a wide array of careers and post-graduate study both inside and outside the social sciences.”
Monica Snowden, Ph.D.
Department Chair
Professor of Sociology
Learn From the Best
Our faculty are accomplished. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in the pscyhology and sociology degree programs.

Marianna Baykina, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Psychology and Sociology Scholarships
In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Learn more about scholarships for psychology and sociology students.