Bachelor of Science, Major in Precision Agriculture

at South Dakota State University USA

The Department’s chemistry faculty research programs fall into the thematic focus areas of environmental chemistry and green chemistry, chemical sensor development, organic synthesis, materials chemistry, natural products chemistry, and chemical education. Within these multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary focus areas, students can select research projects that involve the traditional subdisciplines of chemistry – analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic and physical. Currently active research projects in the Department focus on various aspects of analytical chemistry, drug discover and delivery, synthesis or photoactive materials including polymers, materials chemistry and self assembly, chromatography, the chemistry of cell membranes, cancer biology, environmental and green chemistry, chemistry of climate change, photo-physical chemistry, natural products synthesis, biophysical chemistry, computational chemistry, and solid-state NMR. For additional information about these options review the descriptions of current faculty research interests on the Department.

In addition to a traditional thesis-based (Option A) M.S. degree, the Department also offers a predominantly online Chemistry M.S. with chemical education specialization. This is a non-thesis (Option B) degree that focuses on the content necessary for practicing high school teachers to achieve highly qualified status. Admission in this program is limited to practicing high school science teachers. Students interested in thesis-based M.S. degree in the sub-disciplinary area of chemical education should select the Chemistry (M.S.) program in their application for admission.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Comprehensive knowledge: Graduate degree recipients will possess comprehensive disciplinary knowledge with high competence.
  • M.S. degree recipients will be able to demonstrate chemistry knowledge and advanced technical skills.
  • Graduate degree recipients will be prepared to demonstrate knowledge and technical skills in a large variety of professional fields, careers and endeavors.
  • Graduate degree recipients will communicate effectively in an oral, written and visual manner to technical audiences and stakeholders.
  • Graduate degree recipients will possess and practice high standards of scientific integrity and professional ethics.
• Trans-disciplinary professional skills: Graduate degree recipients will possess trans-disciplinary professional skills.
  • Graduate degree recipients will apply creativity to innovation.
  • Graduate degree recipients will recognize the importance of workplace diversity in culture, gender, perspective, and experience.
  • Graduate degree recipients will work effectively with peers and develop mentoring skills.
  • Graduate degree recipients will develop an understanding of the intellectual property process and the business needs of their workplace.
• Students will be familiar with the research literature of their chemistry subdiscipline and have the ability to keep abreast of major developments to acquire a working background in any area.
• Students will be able to demonstrate skill in the recognition of meaningful problems and questions for research.
• Students will possess technical skill in laboratory manipulation.
• Students will be able to demonstrate skill in designing experimental protocols and in conducting productive self-directed research.

This degree is designed for students who enjoy music but want a career option outside of performing or teaching music. The program prepares students for careers in music manufacturing, retail sales, music production, publishing, arts management, industry, and a variety of other fields. An on-the-job internship experience is included as part of the professional requirement for the degree.

Student Learning Outcomes
Music Entrepreneurship students will:

• Analyze, synthesize, and create music as a means of supporting developing careers in music education and/or performance. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Be able to perform as soloists, ensemble members, and/or chamber musicians at appropriate levels for their concentration. (Cross-curricular Skill: Teamwork)
• Integrative Learning (Cross-curricular Skill: Integrative Learning)
• Demonstrate proficient knowledge of the information literacy as pertained to research method—specifically when it comes to researching and writing about music. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy)
• SLO 5 (Diversity and Inclusion) will be assessed through learning opportunities presented in the first-year MUS 119 course, reinforced through discussion of MUEN programming, and through progress in projects associated with MUS 130, World Music. Data will be collected and analyzed every three years and stored in the Music office. Benchmark for success is that 80% of students will demonstrate proficient knowledge of the diversity of values, beliefs, practices, and ideas embodied in the discipline of music. (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)

This major prepares students with essential written and visual communication, critical thinking, strategy, design, and research skills for careers in public relations and marketing communications.

Student Learning Outcomes
Students completing a public relations major will be equipped to:

• Understand and apply the principles and laws of freedom of speech and press, for the country in which the institution that invites ACEJMC is located, as well as receive instruction in and understand the range of systems of freedom of expression around the world, including the right to dissent, to monitor and criticize power, and to assemble and petition for redress of grievances.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the history and role of professionals and institutions in shaping communications.
• Demonstrate an understanding of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and, as appropriate, other forms of diversity in domestic society in relation to mass communications. (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of peoples and cultures and of the significance and impact of mass communications in a global society.   (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Understand concepts and apply theories in the use and presentation of images and information. (Cross-curricular Skills: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity, Information Literacy)
• Demonstrate an understanding of professional ethical principles and work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness and diversity. (Cross-curricular skill: Ethical Reasoning)
• Think critically, creatively and independently. (Cross-curricular Skills: Inquiry and Analysis, Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Conduct research and evaluate information by methods appropriate to the communications professions in which they work. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis, Information Literacy)
• Write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for the communications professions, audiences and purposes they serve.
• Critically evaluate their own work and that of others for accuracy and fairness, clarity, appropriate style and grammatical correctness. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Apply basic numerical and statistical concepts. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)

Apply tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions in which they work.

The program provides students with a broad background in all facets of microbiology, preparing them to pursue careers in diagnostic and research laboratories, public health, agriculture, food industry, pharmaceutical companies, academia, governmental agencies, and the private sector. With the recommended electives, the graduate is prepared to pursue health-related professional or graduate education for advanced training. The goal is to provide a sound but varied educational experience.

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

• Demonstrate understanding and application of evolution; biological structure and function; biological and biochemical pathways and transformations of energy and matter; and biological systems. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy)
• Apply the process of science. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Information Literacy)
• Demonstrate understanding of and application of quantitative reasoning; information flow, exchange, and storage in microorganisms; relationship between science and society. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy)
• Demonstrate knowledge on how microorganisms interact with and impact their environment and the interaction between microorganisms and humans, animals and plants.
• Describe and use new and existing methods and technologies in and out of the laboratory setting.
• Tap into the interdisciplinary nature of science. (Cross-curricular Skill: Integrative Learning)
• Communicate and collaborate with other disciplines. (Cross-curricular Skill: Teamwork)

Food Science is the study of the science behind and involved with the production, preservation, packaging, and distribution of safe, wholesome, and nutritious foods.  Students will develop a knowledge base related to the basic physical, microbiological, chemical and engineering sciences as they are applied to foods.  These sciences are utilized to study the nature of foods, the causes of food deterioration and spoilage, and principles of food preservation.  This skill set is also employed by the scientists to develop and create approaches for the generation of new food products to assist in feeding the world through provision of foods that provide proper nutrition with acceptable taste and texture while maintaining affordability of the product.  Graduates with a degree in Food Science are well prepared for professional positions within the food industry or for further graduate study in Food Science.

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

• An understanding of the chemistry underlying the properties and reactions of various food components. (Cross-curricular skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• A practical proficiency in laboratory techniques associated with the determination of qualitative and quantitative analytical data related to physical, chemical, and biological aspects of foods and food ingredients. (Cross-curricular skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• An understanding of microbial growth and survival as it impacts the safety, preservation, and spoilage of food systems. (Cross-curricular skill: Integrative Learning)
• An understanding of unit operations, process control and sanitation protocols as they relate to the production and preservation of a food. (Cross-curricular Skill: Problem Solving)
• An ability to apply statistical principles to the control and assurance of quality in the production of food products. (Cross-curricular Skill: Problem Solving; Critical and creative thinking)
• An understanding of the laws and regulations governing the manufacture and sale of food products. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• An ability to utilize verbal and written communication skills effectively in a group environment. (Cross-curricular Skill: Teamwork; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• An ability to apply critical thinking and reasoning skills while ethically applying scientific principles to resolving issues associated with foods and food systems. (Cross-curricular Skill: Ethical Reasoning)

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)

SDSU, in partnership with the University of Minnesota (U of MN), is offering a collaborative Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine leading to a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree. Students must first complete all their pre-veterinary requirements and then can apply to the new professional program.  Students admitted to the professional program will be allowed to dual-enroll in the Biological Sciences (M.S.) - Veterinary Medicine Specialization, thus having the opportunity to simultaneously earn an M.S. degree while completing the PPVM coursework needed for transitioning to the University of Minnesota to complete the final two years of the DVM degree. For more information visit the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges, Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS).

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will:

• Demonstrate understanding of central biological principles and mechanisms that underlie animal health and disease from the molecular to histologic to gross levels.
• Demonstrate knowledge of normal function and behavior, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and management or control of important domestic and foreign animal diseases.
• Demonstrate understanding of food safety, zoonotic disease, and public health issues.
• Retrieve and integrate information from the veterinary literature.
• Ability to understand and interpret research related to mechanisms of disease, diagnostic technology, and treatments.

The major in Entrepreneurial Studies is designed to enhance entrepreneurial talent by providing students with the knowledge, skills and experiences to think entrepreneurially and create value in our society. The program allows students to cultivate a mindset for thinking creatively and develop the ability to be innovative. The curriculum emphasizes entrepreneurship, business management, and interdisciplinary electives.

Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates will

• Be able to use analytical methods to make effective decisions. (Cross-curricular Skills: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Problem Solving)
• Be able to communicate effectively. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy)
• Be able to evaluate matters of ethics in the profession and the culture more broadly. (Cross-curricular Skills: Ethical Reasoning; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Have the requisite body of knowledge in management and economics.

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.

Civil Engineering includes design, construction, and operation and maintenance of highways, airports, buildings, bridges, dams, water supply and distribution systems, waste water collection systems and treatment plants, irrigation and drainage systems, river and harbor improvements and many other infrastructure facilities essential in modern life. Civil Engineers are custodians of the built environment and are responsible for all aspects of the world’s infrastructure.

To prepare students for these responsibilities, the program provides opportunities for them to solve engineering problems, promote original thought, illustrate the work expected of engineers and stimulate interest and enthusiasm for design. Seniors design teams work on comprehensive, open-ended projects involving scope and definition, evaluation of alternatives on the basis of economic, social, environmental, and other factors, concluding with the preparation of a functional design, plans, specifications and final cost estimates.

Program Educational Objectives

The civil engineering program at South Dakota State University is committed to preparing students to achieve the following educational objectives within five years beyond the baccalaureate degree.

• Graduates will have obtained professional licensure or specialized certification.
• Graduates will have engaged in professional development and life-long learning through earning advanced degrees, attending continuing education forums, or active participation in professional organizations.
• Graduates will have become actively involved in their profession, communities, and global society with a trajectory towards leadership positions.

Student Learning Outcomes

The program’s mission and educational objectives are accomplished by providing undergraduate students with an educational program that will result in the following outcomes by the time of graduation:

• An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
• An 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 societal 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