Bachelor of Arts, Major in American Indian and Indigenous Studies

at South Dakota State University USA

The major in Graphic Design provides a comprehensive visual communication experience, including mobile technology, interface design, user experience design, animation and motion graphics, product/package design, brand identity design, data visualization design, and entrepreneurship. Graduates of the Graphic Design program will create professional portfolios, engage in real experiences working in industry, and have the opportunity to build strong connections with professionals nationally and internationally. South Dakota State University graduates are prepared to work in almost any field imaginable. A 12-credit visual arts core taken in conjunction with the graphic design sequence supports the degree and creates a foundation for success. Through taking the core and taking 6 additional ART, ARTH or ARTE courses, majors qualify for the Studio Arts Minor adding breadth and depth to the degree.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Acquire core knowledge of graphic design practice.
• Demonstrate fluency in the visual vocabulary and technical skills relevant to Graphic Design – Typography, Grid systems across analog and digital media, visual narratives (photography, illustration, and type-as-image), and conceptualization of the work based on research. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking; Problem Solving; Intercultural Knowledge)
• Imagine and articulate research, conceptualization, and varied solutions (generate effective ideas) to any problem. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Display innovative synergies of media types across print, screen, packaging and emerging media and excel in one or several of the following Areas of Emphasis: Print, Packaging & Environmental, Interaction Design, Media Fluency, Motion.
• Demonstrate the ability to function as an effective member of a team. (Cross-curricular Skill: Teamwork)
• Demonstrate the professional awareness and physical preparation necessary to enter the design workspace. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Problem Solving; Intercultural Knowledge; Integrative Learning)

The Agronomy major provides broad training in the plant and soil sciences and in crop production technology. The integrated program is designed to provide students with an understanding and knowledge base in crops, seeds, soils, weeds, entomology, plant pathology, breeding and genetics, precision agriculture, natural resource management, and the interaction of production systems. This major is recommended for students interested in cropping systems, natural/agricultural resource management, or the agribusiness areas of crops, soils, and pest management. Individuals can prepare for careers in crop consulting, crop/plant research, and with private industry managing agricultural inputs such as pesticides and fertilizers; developing improved seed traits, plant sciences, genomics, sales, and seed production; and for work with government agencies, such as the Cooperative Extension Service, Farm Service Agency, Agricultural Research Service, and Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Agronomy major, students will:

• Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of basic Agronomy principles and practices.
• Demonstrate the ability to think creatively and to apply critical thinking skills when evaluating and analyzing information. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Demonstrate the ability to learn, develop, and apply skills for the application of existing and emerging knowledge and technologies in Agronomy.
• Demonstrate the ability to apply scientific principles, quantitative skills, and other problem solving skills in Agronomy. (Cross-curricular Skill: Problem Solving)
• Demonstrate knowledge and application of ethical and sustainable practices in the agronomic fields. (Cross-curricular Skill: Ethical Reasoning)
• Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate (written, listening and oral) with both scientific and non-scientific audiences.

The Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences offers courses and research opportunities in pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences leading to the M.S. degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences. The didactic courses, along with the research concentration in a specific area of pharmaceutical sciences, provide a strong foundation for academic, industry and other research careers. The program places a strong emphasis on comprehensive and high quality graduate education and research experiences for the students. The M.S. degree is offered as thesis (Option A) and non-thesis (Option B) options.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences will:

• Demonstrate knowledge of key fundamental concepts in the pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences.
• Apply pharmaceutical and biomedical science knowledge and research techniques to drug discovery and development.
• Retrieve and critically evaluate the scientific literature.
• Utilize effective written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrate professionalism and ethical conduct.

The history curriculum is adaptable to personal interests and needs, allowing students to explore the past and make connections to the present. Students pursuing a History Teaching Specialization may select either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in preparation for careers in various fields related to education. The program also provides a necessary background for graduate work or other specialized training.

Student Learning Outcomes
Students with a major in History will be able to:

• Demonstrate a knowledge of the most important historical events in U.S. History, including an in-depth study of issues facing minorities within the U.S. (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Demonstrate a knowledge of the most important historical events beyond the United States. (Cross-curricular Skill: Intercultural Knowledge)
• Interpret the past in context; contextualize the past on its own terms. (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Develop a disciplined, skeptical stand and outlook on the world that demands evidence and a sophisticated use of information. This includes recognizing the difference between strong and weak arguments based on evidence, seeking use of proper citations and peer review in other works. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Demonstrate an awareness that knowledge is often incomplete or imperfect, and thus multiple alternatives must be considered and conclusions are subject to change. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Know the difference between primary and secondary documents, demonstrate how and when to cite in the format of the profession.
• Identify and summarize the historical arguments of other scholars.
• Frame a historical question and develop research strategies to address it, generate historical argument that is reasoned and based on evidence selected, arranged and analyzed. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Effectively navigate the library and online databases, as well as the archives or in the community for primary sources, peer-reviewed literature and book reviews. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy)

Mechanical engineers design devices and systems that efficiently employ the materials and forces of nature for the benefit of society. Mechanical Engineering is an applied science profession based on mathematics, physics and chemistry. Expertise and sound judgment in application of the sciences are gained through a combination of study and practice.

Mechanical engineers have a remarkable range of career options from which to choose. Work is found in design and development of a wide range of machines and systems, in manufacturing and automation, in energy and power production, and in various related fields of research, management or business.

Program Educational Objectives
The Mechanical Engineering program provides a learning environment that prepares graduates to achieve the following career and professional accomplishments:

• Achieve positions of increasing responsibility or leadership with employers, professional organizations, or civic organizations in recognition of professional competence and the ability to function in team environments.
• Complete licensure, certification, short courses, workshops or advanced degrees in technical or professional subject areas as they adapt to contemporary engineering practice and the global business environment.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completing the Mechanical Engineering program, the student outcomes are:

• An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
• The ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors.
• An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
• An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and social contexts.
• An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
• An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
• An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

The Agricultural Science curriculum is designed for the student undecided as to a specific major field of study within the area of agriculture, or who may want to combine multiple fields of study within agriculture, or plans to return to the farm or ranch after college. A large number of free electives are available allowing the student to take courses in the different disciplines needed for a diversified career or to manage a production unit.

General electives may be selected from any area and allow students to develop special competencies or interests. When qualifying for a Bachelor of Science degree a student may, through a choice of electives, complete courses in business, prepare for graduate study, or enroll in special areas of study such as plant and/or animal science.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the B.S. degree in Agricultural Science, students will:

• Locate and evaluate information to aid in decision-making. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy)
• Recognize the importance of continued learning in relation to their profession. (Cross-curricular Skill: Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills)
• Consider diverse perspectives and understand global challenges in agriculture. (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving skills. (Cross-curricular Skill: Problem Solving)
• Explain benefits of an agricultural minor or chosen emphasis.
• Articulate their role in the agricultural industry through effective written and oral communication skills.

The goal of the online M.S. specializing in Family and Community Services (FCS) is to provide advanced, professional education and research expertise that focuses on improving individual, family, and community well-being. This specialization is delivered entirely online through Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA) and is designed to meet the educational needs of military service members and their spouses. Students who successfully complete this specialization will earn a Master of Science in Human Sciences specializing in Family and Community Services.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Research-based perspective: Student will be able to use a research-based perspective on individual, family, interpersonal and community dynamics across the lifespan.
• Design, implement and sustain program: Student will have the knowledge and skills to design, implement, and sustain family and community service programs.
• Leadership and management: Student will have the knowledge and skills for leadership and management of family and community service programs.

Learning one or more foreign languages is about much more than just grammar and structure of languages.  To learn a language is to engage with the heritage of entire civilizations, as well as with the contemporary norms that structure societies’ politics, religions, identities, and workplace, in order to communicate more effectively.  Furthermore, language study provides models for dealing with cultural differences that are applicable in any part of the world, including the U.S., taken together, courses offered in Spanish at SDSU prepare students with the skills to function and communicate effectively in any environment.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon the completion of the Spanish major, students should be able to:

• Speak, read and write Spanish at the Intermediate-High or Advanced level, developing solid competence in the language needed for everyday life and advanced narrative skills in the past, present, and future. (Cross-curricular Skills: Intercultural Knowledge; Inquiry & Analysis; Information Literacy)
• Demonstrate understanding of and growth in the skills required for intercultural communication and competence and life-long learning. (Cross-curricular Skill: Intercultural Knowledge; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity; Critical & Creative Thinking)
• Identify the cultural perspectives of the Spanish-speaking world’s civilizations and their cultural products, such as literatures, arts, institutions, pop cultures, etc. and compare the cultural frames that determine everyday life in French- speaking cultures and the U.S. (Cross-curricular Skills: Intercultural Knowledge; Critical & Creative Thinking; Inquiry & Analysis; Information Literacy)
• Adapt behavior to a variety of cultural contexts through critical analysis of cultural frames. (Cross-curricular Skills: Intercultural Knowledge; Creative & Critical Thinking; and Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Articulate the value of their language and cultural studies and apply this knowledge in future employment. (Cross-curricular Skill: Intercultural Knowledge; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)

Students majoring in Consumer Affairs who pursue the Consumer Services Management specialization are usually interested in marketing, communication, human development, planning principles and working with individuals to develop personal management skills. Required courses for the Consumer Services Management specialization focus on the application of resource management concepts for families of varying structures, consumer rights and responsibilities, consumer behavior in making decisions, the impact of the marketplace on problem solving and implementation strategies for working with diverse audiences.

Completion of the Consumer Affairs major and Consumer Services Management specialization prepares students to engage in a variety of careers such as: management of non-profit organizations, management of retail businesses, Extension, credit/financial counseling, human resources, marketing and sales.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will apply the consumer decision-making process to improve consumer well-being.
• Students will demonstrate effective resource management skills. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills)
• Students will integrate knowledge of policy and community resources to solve consumer issues. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy; Problem Solving)
• Students will increase knowledge, awareness, and understanding of individual and social differences in consumer behavior. (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)

The Spanish major - Teaching specialization at SDSU consists of language, culture, literature and professional courses to prepare students for teaching careers in primary, middle or secondary schools or for further graduate study.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon the completion of the Spanish major, students should be able to:

• Speak, read and write Spanish at the Intermediate-High or Advanced level, developing solid competence in the language needed for everyday life and advanced narrative skills in the past, present, and future. (Cross-curricular Skills: Intercultural Knowledge; Inquiry & Analysis; Information Literacy)
• Demonstrate understanding of and growth in the skills required for intercultural communication and competence and life-long learning. (Cross-curricular Skill: Intercultural Knowledge; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity; Critical & Creative Thinking)
• Identify the cultural perspectives of the Spanish-speaking world’s civilizations and their cultural products, such as literatures, arts, institutions, pop cultures, etc. and compare the cultural frames that determine everyday life in French- speaking cultures and the U.S. (Cross-curricular Skills: Intercultural Knowledge; Critical & Creative Thinking; Inquiry & Analysis; Information Literacy)
• Adapt behavior to a variety of cultural contexts through critical analysis of cultural frames. (Cross-curricular Skills: Intercultural Knowledge; Creative & Critical Thinking; and Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Articulate the value of their language and cultural studies and apply this knowledge in future employment. (Cross-curricular Skill: Intercultural Knowledge; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)