Master of Science in Sociology with Specialization in Community Development

at South Dakota State University USA

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 South Dakota State University Master of Science in Athletic Training (AT) program aspires to prepare engaged practitioners and contemporary leaders of athletic training. Through the cultivation of a learning environment implementing innovative and best practice pedagogies, the program exists to challenge students to become reflective, professional, and ethical practitioners dedicated to improving patients’ quality of life. The overall goals of the program are to provide students with knowledge and experiences which improve the depth and breadth of professional competency in athletic training, enhance written and oral communication abilities, and promote an appreciation for the ways research can inform practice, and/or prepare students for advanced study in the field.

The Master of Science in Athletic Training prepares students for entry into clinical practice as licensed athletic trainers. The program is two years in length and includes a blend of coursework and clinical experiences completed under the supervision of preceptors who are appropriately credentialed health care professionals. Clinical experiences will include working with a variety of patients in high schools, colleges/universities, sports medicine clinics, and medical and rehabilitation clinics. Upon successful completion of the curriculum, students will be eligible to challenge the national certifying examination for athletic trainers through the Board of Certification (BOC).

Each year the Master of Science in AT program admits (1) new cohort of students who begin their plan of study during the summer term. Admission to the program is on a competitive basis. For full admission into the athletic training program, students must complete the SDSU Graduate School application as well as a secondary selective admissions application specifically for the AT program.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate competence and confidence: Provide confident and competent, patient-centered care that meets the essential and expected practices of Athletic Training practice in order to improve patient-outcomes.
• Demonstrate ethical behaviors: Recognize and demonstrate behaviors that reflect a commitment to legal, ethical, and professional athletic training practice in a diverse and evolving healthcare environment.
• Teamwork and collaboration: Effectively collaborate within an interdisciplinary team to provide consistent, efficient healthcare that optimizes patient outcomes.
• Critical thinking: Integrate the best available evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values to provide safe and effective care
• Prioritize the patient: Demonstrate the ability to prioritize patient safety and improve quality.
• Communication: Communicate, manage knowledge, mitigate error and support decision making using information technology.

A German B.A. at SDSU opens the door to a world of art, music, technology, psychology, politics, medicine, and many other fields. In today’s interconnected world, many professions cross international borders and bring together people through German, the most widely spoken language in Europe.

A German B.A. prepares students to confidently use the German language in any environment. It includes courses in language, culture, pop culture, film and literature of German speaking countries and promotes intercultural competence so graduates can navigate cultural differences with ease.

Language scholarships are made available to encourage students to take advantage of multiple opportunities, both within the school and through our International Affairs Office, to study or do an internship abroad.

The major offers flexibility and can easily be added to another major.

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 major in Economics provides rigorous training in economic theory and quantitative methods. Students develop analytical and critical-thinking skills, and are well trained for careers in policy analysis, financial analysis, business, or law school. Students may choose the general economics major in which they will customize their program of study by selecting electives in economics, finance or policy, or they can pursue the specialization in Agricultural Economics through the College of Agriculture, Food & Environmental Sciences.  This program also provides strong preparation for students pursuing a graduate degree in economics, law, or a related field.

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 M.S. in Nutrition and Exercise Sciences provides an opportunity to specialize in Nutritional Sciences or Exercise Science. Students are prepared for careers in clinical, industry, or research fields. A partial list includes clinical dietitians, public health nutritionists, research dietitians, clinical exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, research assistants or coordinators, instructors, or public health officials.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Apply foundational knowledge and skills in the theory and application of nutrition and exercise sciences to professional practice, education, and research.
• Develop effective written and oral communication skills.
• Critically analyze and synthesize scientific evidence to defend a position.
• Demonstrate effective career preparedness.

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 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)

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)

Secondary school mathematics educators need to be mathematicians as well as skilled educators, so the Mathematics Education Specialists take the same challenging core upper level mathematics courses as those math majors pursuing other professional goals. In addition to this rigorous mathematics curriculum, Mathematics Education Specialists take the full block of education courses. This program allows graduates to find meaningful careers in secondary education, as well as preparing students for graduate study.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Mathematics major with teaching specialization, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate competence in all core areas of undergraduate mathematics. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking, Problem Solving)
• Develop a career as a mathematics educator.
• Use contemporary mathematical and presentation software and technology. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy)
• Apply pedagogical knowledge to allow them to grow as a teacher. (Cross-curricular Skill: Integrative Learning, Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Communicate clearly and succinctly in writing in the discipline. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Articulate complex ideas to an audience. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)

Students in this major are exposed and participate in all aspects of theatre, through a broad-based education. Students will gain practical experience with the newest techniques and technology of theatre. In this major, the hands-on education involves participation in State University Theatre and Prairie Repertory Theatre.

Student Learning Outcomes
In the Theatre major, students will be able to:

• Think conceptually and critically about text, performance, and production. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Integrative Learning)
• Demonstrate an understanding of playwriting and production processes, aesthetic properties of style, and the way these shape and are shaped by artistic and cultural forces. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Be acquainted with a wide selection of theatre repertory including the principal eras, genres, and cultural sources. (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Develop and defend informed judgments about theatre. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Demonstrate ability in areas of performance, production, or playwriting appropriate to their individual needs and interests and consistent with the goals and objectives of the program. (Cross-curricular Skill: Problem Solving)
• Understand procedures and approaches for realizing a variety of theatrical styles. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking; Problem Solving)

If applicable, students will be prepared to gain entry level positions:

• In the profession in the areas of design, technology, or stage management, or gain entrance to graduate programs for additional training prior to entering the profession.
• As performers or gain acceptance to graduate programs for additional training or to enter the profession.
• In theatre management, promotions/business or gain acceptance to graduate programs for additional training or to enter the profession.