Studying psychology and sociology at Wayne State
The Department of Psychology and Sociology prepares you 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. 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 contribute to an increasingly diverse society.
Our faculty collaborate with students on research projects and provide opportunities to participate in regional service and community outreach. Through research and participation in community service, we strive to improve the lives of individuals and our surrounding communities.
We have a long history of mentoring independent student research to prepare for a competitive labor market, post-graduate applications, and to attend professional conferences in the state and Midwest region. We are dedicated to your participation in conferences and research because we know it provides a memorable educational experience and is critical for students who are seeking a post-graduate education. At these conferences, you can present your original research in poster sessions, round tables, or formal paper sessions. In the past, WSC students have won paper competitions at state and regional conferences for their research. For those who aren’t presenting research, you can still attend for professional socialization opportunities. Attendance allows you to learn conference etiquette and network with other students and faculty from other institutions, participate in workshops on graduate school applications, and gain exposure to the wide range of opportunities a sociology undergraduate and graduate degree offer.
Get in touch
Psychology and Sociology Department
Benthack Hall, Room 111
402-375-7389

I chose Sociology because I wanted to understand the underlying problems of society, and I wanted to study people. I found it a great way to understand why people do things and how it affects others negatively or positively. In the program I am in, I have met many people with the same interests, and I have had great professors that have given importance to my major and inspired me to choose a profession in this field. I like studying at Wayne State College because I have learned so much from professors who care about my future.
Kaysen Aksamit
Bennington, Nebraska
Major: Sociology



I chose Sociology because I wanted to understand the underlying problems of society, and I wanted to study people. I found it a great way to understand why people do things and how it affects others negatively or positively. In the program I am in, I have met many people with the same interests, and I have had great professors that have given importance to my major and inspired me to choose a profession in this field. I like studying at Wayne State College because I have learned so much from professors who care about my future.


Kaysen Aksamit
Bennington, Nebraska
Major: Sociology
Department faculty

Marianna Baykina, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor

Dan Miller, Ph.D.
Professor
Dr. Dan Miller is a psychology professor at Wayne State College. Miller's teaching interests include learning; experimental, sports, positive, and general psychology; history and systems; behavior modification; and life span development.

Jeff Shelton, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Dr. Jeff Shelton is a sociology professor at Wayne State College. Shelton's teaching and research interest are in medical sociology, research methods, the study of work and professions, and social policy.

Monica Snowden, Ph.D.
Professor
Dr. Monica Snowden is a sociology professor at Wayne State College. She teaches introductory sociology, social problems, race and ethnic relations, social theory, environmental sociology, and social inequalities.

Shane Westfall, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Dr. Shane Westfall is psychology professor at Wayne State College. He is an active researcher and enjoys working with students to help them develop their own research ideas.
Psychology and sociology programs at Wayne State
- Psychology
Bachelor's degree or minor
- Psychology Education (6-12)
Bachelor's degree program (subject endorsement)
Teaching Endorsement
- Social Sciences
Bachelor's degree or minor
- Sociology
Bachelor's degree or minor
- Sociology Education (6-12)
Bachelor's degree program (subject endorsement)
Teaching Endorsement
Continue exploringFacilities and opportunities

Where you'll learn
Connell Hall is home to programs in the social sciences, including Psychology and Sociology.

Anthropology Museum
The Anthropology Museum highlights human achievement and represents most disciplines in the Social Sciences at WSC.

Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska
The Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska (BHECN) Northeast provides career preparation and outreach programming for students in the behavioral health field.