Bachelor of Arts, Major in English

at South Dakota State University USA

Dairy Science is an application of the sciences, engineering and technology, and business toward the study of milk production and processing. 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. The Dairy Manufacturing Major - Microbiology Specialization provides a strong biology, chemistry and microbiology focused curriculum for students with a strong interest in pursuing Microbiology related careers within the dairy industry. Students will develop a knowledge base related to the basic physical, biological, microbiological, chemical and engineering sciences, with special emphasis on microbiology, as they are applied to dairy foods.  These sciences are utilized to study the nature and development of dairy products; the unit operations involved in processing and production of quality dairy foods; the causes of deterioration and spoilage, and principles of dairy food preservation.  Students will also be exposed to business operations management as it relates specifically to a dairy processing facility. These skill sets are also utilized by scientists to develop and create approaches for the generation of new dairy food products to assist in feeding the world through provision of products that provide proper nutrition with acceptable taste and texture while maintaining affordability.  Graduates with a degree in Dairy Manufacturing-Microbiology Specialization are well prepared for professional positions within the dairy processing industry or for further graduate study in Dairy Science.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Dairy Manufacturing - Microbiology Specialization curriculum a graduate should be able to demonstrate the following:

• Understanding of the chemistry underlying the properties and reactions of the various components within a dairy food as they are influenced by processing conditions. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Problem Solving; Integrative Learning)
• Practical proficiency in laboratory techniques associated with the determination of qualitative and quantitative analytical data related to physical, chemical, biological and microbiological aspects of dairy foods and dairy-based ingredients. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Teamwork; Problem Solving; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning)
• Understanding of microbial growth and survival as it impacts the safety, preservation and spoilage of dairy food systems. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Problem Solving; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning)
• Understanding of unit operations, process control and sanitation protocols as they relate to the production and preservation of dairy-based foods. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Problem Solving; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning)
• Understanding of cleaning and sanitation processes and protocols as they impact the control and assurance of quality in the finished dairy food. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking; Teamwork; Problem Solving; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning)
• Practical proficiency in application of Good Manufacturing Principles (GMP’s), Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s), and Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP’s) as a direct result of exposure to these items in an applied manufacturing environment. (Cross-curricular Skill: Teamwork; Problem Solving; Ethical Reasoning; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Understanding of the laws and regulations governing the manufacture and sale of dairy-based food products. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Problem Solving; Civic Knowledge and Engagement; Intercultural Knowledge; Ethical Reasoning; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• General understanding of business operations including finance, human resources, inventory management, infrastructure requirements, loss control and purchasing. (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 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 apply critical thinking and reasoning skills while ethically applying scientific principles to resolving issues associated with dairy food products and processing systems. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Teamwork; Problem Solving; Civic Knowledge and Engagement; Ethical Reasoning; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Integrative Learning; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)

The American Indian and Indigenous Studies program prepares critical thinkers for living in an interrelated world with the rigorous engagement of Indigenous intellectual traditions, interdisciplinary theories, methods and community engagement. Indigenous languages and narratives provide a grounding for the development of Indigenous leadership. Coursework provides an understanding of American Indian and Indigenous worldviews as lenses to comprehend traditional knowledge and culture, and a basis with which to view the process of colonization and decolonization of Indigenous peoples and lands.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates will:

• Identify and analyze the trajectory of colonization and decolonization among Indigenous peoples in the North American context. (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Apply a theory of Indigenous worldview to effectively demonstrate cultural difference among Indigenous peoples and between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. (Cross-curricular Skill: Intercultural Knowledge)
• Apply an Indigenous methodological lens towards a research project benefitting Indigenous communities. (Cross-curricular Skill: Integrative Learning)
• Critically analyze and evaluate contemporary Indigenous issues working across academic disciplines to further the process of decolonization and Indigenization. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Analyze the cultural and linguistic translations evident in American Indian and Indigenous Studies to develop decolonizing and Indigenizing discourses. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)

The Natural Resource Law Enforcement program was developed in coordination with state and federal agencies to prepare students for careers as conservation officers, federal wildlife agents, park rangers, and game wardens.  The curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong academic foundation that integrates natural resource management, conservation and law enforcement.  Students pursue coursework in wildlife and fisheries sciences, ecology, criminal law and procedures, constitutional law, social issues, and environmental laws and policies.  Students acquire skills in communication, conflict resolution, teamwork, leadership, ethics, laws and human dimensions, statistics, technology, global competence, critical thinking, and problem solving.  The Natural Resource Law Enforcement Program also delivers outstanding non-traditional educational experiences to students, further increasing their opportunities for career success.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Natural Resource Law Enforcement major, students will:

• Demonstrate understanding of ecological and environmental principles required for management of natural resources for multiple-uses, including (but not limited to) wildlife habitat, water management, ecosystems services, recreation, and livestock production. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Problem Solving; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Describe how natural resource management fits into the context of society and how societal factors (e.g., economics, policy, laws, regulations, attitudes, behaviors, norms) influence natural resource management. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Information Literacy; Problem Solving; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Demonstrate the ability to lead and work with others as appropriate to successfully manage natural resources. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Teamwork; Problem Solving; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Demonstrate appropriate use of natural resource field and lab techniques as well as contemporary technology. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Teamwork; Problem Solving; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Demonstrate the ability to appropriately analyze and critically evaluate data and other information. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Teamwork; Problem Solving)
• Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate (both written and orally) with both scientific and non-scientific audiences. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Teamwork; Problem Solving; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Demonstrate an understanding of the professional and ethical responsibility that necessary for a natural resource professional. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Information Literacy; Ethical Reasoning; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)

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.

The major in Agricultural Business prepares students to excel in the challenging environment of the modern agricultural industry. Graduates are creative, adaptable, and well educated in economics and management. The program combines education in management and economics with a strong technical knowledge in production agriculture and skills in problem solving. The curriculum emphasizes economic theory, agricultural business management, quantitative methods, and agricultural and biological science electives. Students interested in pursuing a graduate degree in agricultural economics, agri-business, or related fields are well prepared by this degree program.

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 major in Business Economics combines the analytical rigor of an economics degree with the practical skills of a management degree. Students can tailor the program to their interests by choosing from a variety of electives in areas such as accounting, business law, decision science, entrepreneurship, economics, finance, management, and marketing.  Career opportunities for Business Economics majors include management, finance, banking, sales, real estate, and marketing. The Business Economics major also serves to prepare students for graduate work in law, economics, and business.

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.

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)

The Department of Natural Resource Management offers graduate programs in both Biological Science with a Specialization in Natural Resource Management and Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences. Both degree programs award M.S. and Ph.D. degrees.

Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences

The M.S. degree program in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences is intended to educate students for management-level positions with state and federal agencies, private companies, and for the pursuit of higher academic degrees. By using specifically identified coursework and mentoring, we strive to assist students in developing their intellectual capabilities in working with natural resources and people. In addition, each student must propose and conduct an original scientific investigation. Placement rates for M.S. graduates into positions as fisheries biologists, wildlife biologists, and other natural resource positions with state and federal agencies is extremely high.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Be knowledgeable regarding biological systems at a level appropriate to a M.S. degree holder.
• Be able to effectively express themselves orally and in written form.
• Understand the scientific method of solving problems.
• Be computer and statistically capable.
• Be specialized in some area of wildlife or fisheries, but still be broadly based in knowledge.
• Be able to conduct scholarly research.
• Understand the relationships between biological information and socioeconomic factors.
• Demonstrate professional development, especially in regard to the need for continued learning after their degree program.
• Develop a concern and feeling for the natural resources of the world.

The Mathematics degree program provides an outstanding educational experience to students interested in any of the wide range of excellent career or graduate school choices available in the mathematical sciences. The undergraduate mathematics curriculum is organized into three cores: the General Education Core, the Mathematics Core, and the Professional Core. Options for the Professional Core are the Computational Science Concentration, the Financial Engineering Curriculum, the Open Concentration, and the Mathematics Education Specialization. The flexible, specialized paths are available that lead to the best career options open to mathematicians and statisticians.

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

• Apply concepts and methods from Calculus and Linear Algebra. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Problem Solving)
• Analyze, evaluate, and create mathematically rigorous arguments.(Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Use contemporary mathematical, statistical, and educational software and technology to create models, analyze data, or explain concepts as appropriate for student’s focus. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking; Problem Solving)
• Work as part of a team to solve a complex mathematical or statistical problem.
• Demonstrate mathematical independence by critically reading, understanding and re-explaining mathematical, statistical, or mathematics pedagogy resources. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy)
• Communicate complex mathematical, statistical, or mathematics pedagogical ideas clearly and succinctly both in writing and verbally as appropriate for student’s focus. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Exhibit strength in at least one career-focused or graduate school preparatory area of mathematics or statistics. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Understand and appreciate the contributions to the field of mathematics and statistics by a diverse group of individuals and how the student fits and works in this group. (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)

A degree in Journalism prepares students with essential skills including: writing, speaking, critical thinking and technology. Through coursework and experiential learning opportunities, including a required internship, graduates are well-positioned for a wide variety of careers. Students may pursue a B.A. or B.S. in Journalism with coursework in both broadcast and news-editorial journalism. This versatile major prepares students to be digital storytellers, reporters, editors, designers for print, broadcast or online media, photojournalists, or communicators in government, with non-profit organizations or in the corporate world.

Student Learning Outcomes
Students completing the Journalism 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. (Cross-curricular Skill: Civic Knowledge and Engagement)
• Demonstrate an understanding of the history and role of professionals and institutions in shaping communications. (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• 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 Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Demonstrate an understanding of professional ethical principles and work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness and diversity. (Cross-curricular Skill: Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)
• Think critically, creatively and independently. (Cross-curricular Skill: 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)
• Write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for the communications professions, audiences and purposes they serve. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Critically evaluate their own work and that of others for accuracy and fairness, clarity, appropriate style and grammatical correctness. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills)
• 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. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)