Bachelor of Science, Major in Physics

at South Dakota State University USA

The curriculum in the Human Biology major is designed for students planning to apply to health-related professional programs (e.g. chiropractic, dentistry, medicine, optometry, occupational therapy, physical therapy and physician assistant.)

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Human Biology major, students will:

• Demonstrate understanding and application of evolution; biological structure and function; biological and biochemical pathways and transformations of energy and matter; biological systems; and biology, biochemical, physiological and structural aspects of the human body. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy)
• Apply the process of science.
• Demonstrate understanding of and application of quantitative reasoning; information flow, exchange, and storage; relationship between science and society.
• Tap into the interdisciplinary nature of science. (Cross-curricular Skill: Integrative Learning)
• Communicate and collaborate with other disciplines. (Cross-curricular Skill: Teamwork)

A degree in Studio Art prepares majors for careers as fine artists, graduate study in fine arts, and entry-level positions in art and graphic design. The degree focuses on the breadth of general studies combined with visual arts studies where majors receive certificates in one or more of the following areas: Animation, Art History, Ceramics, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture. A 30-hour visual arts core supports the degree and creates a foundation of success in art related fields.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Studio Art program, students will be able to:

• Apply the basic principles of visual organization, in two and three dimensions, to the creation and the analysis of works of art. This includes the application of fundamental drawing skills, design concepts, color theory, and studio specific applications. (Cross-Curricular Skills: Inquiry and Analysis; Integrative Learning)
• Generate a body of original works of art in their chosen area of specialization that exhibits a coherent set of artistic/intellectual goals. This includes the application of the relevant technologies and media associated with their area of specialization as well as other studio disciplines. (Cross-Curricular Skills: Foundation of Lifelong Learning Skills; Critical and Creative Thinking; Problem Solving; Integrative Learning)
• Analyze and critically evaluate works of art and design from various cultures and historical periods as well as the ability to apply art historical context to their own work. (Cross-Curricular Skills: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity)
• Articulate, both orally and written, a critical discourse on their artwork and processes, the artwork of others, and art history through the appropriate application of art and design language and concepts. (Cross-Curricular Skill: Integrative Learning)
• Demonstrate the skills required by professional artists in the communication, documentation, and exhibition of their artwork and experience. (Cross-Curricular Skill: Integrative Learning)

Dairy Science is an application of the sciences, engineering and technology, and business toward the study of milk production and processing. The Dairy Production major focuses on the study of milk production, dairy farm operation management, nutrition and feeding, genetics and breeding, herd health and business management. The degree is designed to prepare students for a wide range of outstanding, challenging and rewarding career opportunities ranging from industry to private enterprise, government, research and higher education.  Students will develop a knowledge base related to the basic biological, physical, microbiological, and chemical sciences.  These sciences are utilized to study the animal health, genetics, physiology, and nutritional requirements of lactating animals. Students will also be exposed to business operations management as it relates specifically to a dairy farm operations. Graduates with a degree in Dairy Production are well prepared for professional positions within the dairy industry or for further graduate study in Dairy Science.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Dairy Production curriculum a graduate should be able to demonstrate the following:

• Understanding of the chemistry and physiology underlying the nutritional requirements of lactating animals, specifically dairy cattle. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Problem Solving; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning)
• Functional and practical approach to maintaining herd health based on a thorough understanding of animal diseases and their causes. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Information Literacy; Problem Solving; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning)
• Functional and practical approach to breeding dairy cattle and confirming pregnancy to enable initiation of milk production.(Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Problem Solving; Ethical Reasoning; Integrative Learning)
• Applied genetics related to breeding and herd management. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Problem Solving; Ethical Reasoning; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills)
• Microbial growth and survival as it impacts the safety and spoilage of milk. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Problem Solving; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning)
• Development of the ruminal microbial environment and impacts on nutrient requirements, milk composition and milk quality. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Problem Solving; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning)
• Understanding of cleaning and sanitation processes and protocols impacting milk quality. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Problem Solving; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning)
• Understanding of dairy farm management and operations principles including finance, human resources, environmental controls, nutrient management, business costs and profitability. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Teamwork; Problem Solving; Civic Knowledge and Engagement; Intercultural Knowledge; Ethical Reasoning; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Ability to utilize verbal and written communication skills effectively in a group or individual environment. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Teamwork; Problem Solving; Civic Knowledge and Engagement; Intercultural Knowledge; Ethical Reasoning; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Ability to utilize critical thinking and reasoning skills while ethically applying scientific principles toward resolving issues associated with the growth, care and feeding, and harvesting of milk from lactating animals. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Teamwork; Problem Solving; Civic Knowledge and Engagement; Intercultural Knowledge; Ethical Reasoning; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)

The focus of the M.S. in Statistics program is the development of sophisticated statistical models and their implementation on high performance computing platforms. The curriculum features a balance of application, computation, and theory with particular emphasis in the areas of biostatistics/informatics and analytics. Areas of faculty and graduate student research activity include bioinformatics, biostatistics, business and financial analytics, forensic statistics, and general statistics. The program is particularly effective at preparing graduates to work in business, industry, or government as well as preparing students to continue on to the CSS Ph.D. or other Ph.D. program.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will understand mathematical or statistical models.
• Students will be able to construct and apply standard mathematical and statistical models.
• Students will be able to solve problems using appropriate software to implement the appropriate models.
• Students will be able to disseminate the results of their work to others.
• Students will be able to apply Argument Deconstruction in mathematics and statistics.

The French Studies program allows students to learn a language, gain intercultural competence, and communicate effectively and appropriately with all people.  Studying French provides models to deal with cultural differences that are applicable in any part of the world, including the U.S Students engage with the contemporary norms that structure societies’ politics, religions, identities, and workplaces, as well as with the heritage and diversity of cultures in the French-speaking world. Students also participate in internships, study abroad, and experiential learning opportunities both locally and internationally. Courses in the French Studies program provide students with the flexibility to pair with another major, and with the skills to function and communicate effectively in any environment, and ultimately, to work competitively in the global marketplace.

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

• Speak, read and write French 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 French-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)

The German Teaching specialization at SDSU consists of the same aims and content as the German B.A. In addition, teaching candidates are given training in the most current professional standards and methods for teaching excellence in Germanic language and cultures. Former candidates have gone on to teach in public and private schools and have gone for further training in order to teach English as a Second Language and prepare for University-level teaching.

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

• Speak, read and write German 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 German-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)

The Aviation Education Specialization is for students who wish to become Certified Flight Instructors and later be professional pilots in industry. Many of our graduates are in the airlines, military, government, and corporate workplaces. Top performing students of this option are often brought on as flight instructors in the SDSU program during their junior and senior years.

Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Aviation Education program will be able to:

• Apply their educational experience to the aviation profession. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Demonstrate instructional knowledge in single- and multi-engine aircraft to the FAA commercial pilot standard. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Demonstrate instructional knowledge by creating and teaching relevant aviation topics to colleagues. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy; Teamwork)

Additionally, all students will participate in a senior capstone course that is designed to bridge the gap between their educational experience and future career. Students are evaluated using direct and indirect assessment to assure competency within the profession using a comprehensive assessment plan.

The history curriculum is adaptable to personal interests and needs, allowing students to explore the past and make connections to the present.  The Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science degree in history prepares students for careers in various professional occupations, law, journalism, teaching, business, public service, library sciences, international work, historical research, and 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)

The Hospitality, Tourism, and Event Management program develops visionary leaders through excellence in student-centered education, skill development, research, service, and collaboration with global hospitality and tourism industries. The curriculum exposes students to many aspects of the hospitality industry and instills in them the critical skills required for the modern workplace. Students complete two professional practicum experiences while pursuing their degree, which provides introductory and supervisory level industry experience. Students are exposed to many aspects of the hospitality industry and to instill in them the critical skills required in today’s workplace.

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.