FHSU Sociology Program

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FHSU Sociology Program Study, understand, and improve society, one class at a time. Sociology is the study of social life and the social causes and consequences of human behavior.

The challenges we face today - changing family structures, cultural diversity, community development, globalization, urbanization, social inequality, terrorism, environmental change, migration – provide students like you with fantastic opportunities. A sociology degree develops strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and prepares you for a variety of rewarding careers where you can make a lasting impact on the lives of others. The department offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Sociology, an addictions counseling track options inside either the BS or BA, and many certificate opportunities. Our curriculum allows each student to craft a program of study - providing the theoretical knowledge and applied experiences applicable to both the workplace and advanced academic pursuits. It is a broad, sturdy degree that has prepared students for success in a wide array of graduate degree programs. Our programs are available on-campus and online.

We’ve loved connecting with students over the last few weeks to share how Sociology transforms perspectives, communities...
10/14/2026

We’ve loved connecting with students over the last few weeks to share how Sociology transforms perspectives, communities, and careers! 🌟

From Dr. Rachel Phelps highlighting social innovation and grant writing with future Tigers to Dr. Brett Zollinger guiding students through our majors and minors at the Majors Fair, we’ve enjoyed every single conversation.

Plus, Dr. Nicole English and Performance Studies student Shannon Ruder brought sociology to life at TMP-Marian—leading nearly 75 students in cultural dance (complete with traditional dance skirts!). 💃

Interested in where Sociology can take you? Drop us a message or visit us on campus!

Last week, the Sociology Club got into the Halloween spirit with Spooky Sociology! During the meeting, club members brou...
10/14/2026

Last week, the Sociology Club got into the Halloween spirit with Spooky Sociology! During the meeting, club members brought social inequality monsters to life and talked about social structures that impact our lives. It was equal parts festive and thought-provoking! Huge thanks to everyone who came, created, and discussed sociology with us!

For future Sociology Club events, check them out on TigerLink!
https://tigerlink.fhsu.edu/organization/sociologyclub

Looking to add an exciting elective to your schedule for Spring 2027?Sociology is excited to offer two unique courses co...
10/12/2026

Looking to add an exciting elective to your schedule for Spring 2027?

Sociology is excited to offer two unique courses coming your way: SOC 348: Topics in Sociology (Sociology of War and the Military) and SOC 675: Seminar in Sociology (Advanced Performance Studies)!

In the SOC 348: Topics in Sociology (Sociology of War and the Military), you'll dive deep into the social causes and consequences behind war and conflict, examine military institutions as social organizations, and explore how conflict shapes culture and identity. This course is perfect for students interested in sociology, leadership, political science, history, or global affairs.

SOC 675: Seminar in Sociology (Performance Studies) is a project-based exploration of how music, dance, theater, sports, gaming, rituals, and social customs shape our world and create community. Compared to the introductory-level Performance Studies course, this section is more hands-on, applying theory directly to real-life practices. You'll explore performance as an object of study, a mode of inquiry, an aesthetic, a form of selfhood, and a social or cultural practice.

This course is perfect for students interested in sociology, communication, theater, music, art, gaming, or cultural studies.

Which one are you adding to your Spring schedule? Contact our office with any questions at [email protected] or by phone at 785-628-5840.

10/08/2026

Spring 2027 registration is officially open! Which Sociology courses are you adding to your schedule?! 📆

Ready to make a big difference? We're teaming up with Ana's Gift once again for another stuffed animal drive! These cudd...
10/07/2026

Ready to make a big difference? We're teaming up with Ana's Gift once again for another stuffed animal drive!

These cuddly pals have a super important job: bringing smiles and comfort to kids in Ellis County facing tough times. Created in honor of Ana Rose Hertel, the late 17-year-old daughter of Stan and Lori Hertel, Ana's gift provides plush companions to children in need when they need extra support.

Our drive is collecting new stuffed animals with tags. To ensure they provide the most comfort possible while meeting collection guidelines, donated stuffed animals must be on the larger side, up to 14" tall by 10" wide.

Donations will be collected through the end of October and can be dropped off at our office in Rarick Hall 145 or at the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences office in Rarick Hall 101 during business hours. You may also mail your donations to the FHSU Sociology Program at 600 Park St., Rarick Hall 145, Hays, KS 67601.

Let's make this drive one of the biggest yet to help children through the holidays! Thank you so much for your support!

Big thanks to everyone who stopped by our Performance Studies group's performance during FHSU Tebo Library's Open House!...
10/05/2026

Big thanks to everyone who stopped by our Performance Studies group's performance during FHSU Tebo Library's Open House! We had a blast sharing our work with you all and celebrating the power of performance.

If you loved what you saw or have been looking for a creative outlet, there are plenty of ways to jump in and get involved with Performance Studies!

- Join the Performance Studies Group, scan the QR code to learn more!
- Earn a certificate in Performance Studies: Add a valuable multi-disciplinary credential to your resume.
- Take our SOC 348: Topics in Sociology (Performance Studies) course: learn more about how performance shapes culture, society, and the self through expressive arts, sports, cinema, popular entertainment, and more!

Call our office with any questions you might have about our Performance Studies programs at 785-628-5840! We'd be happy to help!

Dr. Kate McGonigal recently presented to the City Clerks & Municipal Finance Officers Association on a topic every profe...
09/28/2026

Dr. Kate McGonigal recently presented to the City Clerks & Municipal Finance Officers Association on a topic every professional needs in their toolkit: self-advocacy in the workplace.

Her presentation covered practical advice on negotiating non-monetary benefits, establishing boundaries by knowing when to say no, and maintaining long-term marketability and career readiness.

Looking to boost your own marketability? Sociology at FHSU equips you with the tools and critical-thinking skills to stand out. Explore our career-boosting certificate programs at the link below!

https://www.fhsu.edu/sociology/academic-programs/

09/24/2026

Interested in adding a certificate? We've got something for everyone! Look into our 9 certificate options on our website or stop by our office to learn more!

At this month's Healing Hearts Grief Support Group meeting in Hays, FHSU faculty member, veteran, and author Dr. Seth Ka...
09/23/2026

At this month's Healing Hearts Grief Support Group meeting in Hays, FHSU faculty member, veteran, and author Dr. Seth Kastle joined as a guest speaker to share his candid journey with PTSD, life after military service, and how human connection plays a vital role in overcoming trauma.

Dr. Kastle, author of the impactful children's book, "Why is Dad So Mad?," emphasized the importance of breaking out of isolation, accepting help, and supporting loved ones who may be struggling.

Are you looking for support? Facilitated by Sociology's very own Dr. Kate McGonigal, the Healing Hearts Grief Support Group welcomes anyone navigating loss or seeking comfort. The meetings take place on the third Thursday of each month at the Bob & Pat Schmidt Community Center (2510 Canterbury Dr., Hays, KS) and invite people of all ages.

Check out the full article on Hays Post to read more about Dr. Kastle's discussion and story:
https://hayspost.com/posts/8851198d-6130-4949-b419-bdc400141498

Address

Rarick Hall 145, 600 Park Street
Hays, KS
67601

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