Bachelor of Science, Major in Journalism

at South Dakota State University USA

A major in Communication Studies prepares students to understand the central role that communication plays in people’s lives. Graduates of this program will receive the training, expertise and background that will promote professional success in a wide variety of career areas where communication is a critical requirement.

Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates in Communication Studies will be able to:

• Describe the Communication discipline and its central questions by employing communication theories, perspectives, principles, and concepts. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Engage in Communication inquiry. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Create and critically analyze messages appropriate to the audience, purpose, and context. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Demonstrate the ability to accomplish communicative goals (self-efficacy). (Cross-curricular Skill: Foundational Lifelong Learning Skills)
• Prepare for ethical public influence that embraces differences. (Cross-curricular Skill: Civic Knowledge and Engagement; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)

Geographic Information Science concerns the use of geographic information and data acquired from satellites and airborne platforms, and from ground based measurements and surveys of human activity and the environment. Geographic Information Science students learn how to work with geospatial data to study relationships, patterns, and trends. In the U.S. the explosion of geospatial data and their increasing use in business, government, and people’s everyday lives has led to a growing demand for qualified Geographic Information Science graduates. Geospatial science is developing rapidly, associated with developments in mobile, satellite and airborne remote sensing, computational, and big data technologies.

Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates with a major in Geographic Information Sciences will:

• Demonstrate foundational and specialized knowledge in both the physical and human sciences and their interconnectedness at local, regional, and global scales. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Interpret the ethical consequences of global issues concerning the environment to strengthen commitment to local, national, and global citizenship. (Cross-curricular Skill: Ethical Reasoning)
• Demonstrate proficiency in the application of appropriate geographical technologies and techniques to address issues in the physical and/or human sciences. (Cross-curricular Skill: Problem Solving)
• Communicate geographic ideas clearly and effectively (e.g., maps, writing, oral presentations, posters, photos, flowcharts, tables, graphs, and illustrations).
• Apply observations from laboratory and/or field experiences to analyze problems and offer solutions. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• Demonstrate the ability to collect, organize, analyze, and synthesize information about people, places, and environments in a spatial-temporal context. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy)
• Explore complex local, regional, and global issues using a geographical perspective to formulate questions and draw informed conclusions that are based on critical scientific analysis and interpretation of information. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Demonstrate openness to new perspectives and diverse others, evaluate the complexity inherent to multiple perspectives, and demonstrate the ability to reassess their personal perspective when appropriate. (Cross-curricular Skill: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)

The Data Science major prepares students to use the power of data to help organizations of all sorts and society as a whole to make better decisions.  Students learn to use mathematics, statistics, and computational tools to analyze data of all sorts, and learn to communicate the results of their analysis in order to produce the greatest positive impact.  Graduates are prepared for any post-graduation outcome including immediate entry into the professional world or further study in a pursuit of a M.S. in Data Science.

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

• Apply concepts and methods from Calculus and Linear Algebra. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Information Literacy)
• Work as part of a team to solve a complex Data Science problem. (Cross-curricular Skill: Teamwork)
• Gather requirements from professional contexts and translate them into a clearly articulated data analysis problem. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Problem Solving)
• Identify, gather, and prepare data necessary for analysis (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• Select the optimal combination of mathematical, statistical, and computing techniques necessary to solve a problem. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Problem Solving)
• Conduct analysis in a manner that produces well-understood and reproducible results and avoids common analytical and ethical problems associated with data analysis. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Information Literacy; Problem Solving)
• Interpret and communicate results in the optimal combination of written, graphical/visual, and verbal means, to provide actionable intelligence to the stakeholder. (Cross-curricular Skill: Problem Solving)
• Appreciate the value of and work efficiently with a diverse group of individuals. (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 Human Sciences (M.S.) - Developmental Sciences (DS) Specialization provides students with graduate training in an interdisciplinary field that examines human development across the lifespan in cultural, social, and family contexts. Students will complete advanced coursework in the areas of child, adolescent, and adult development with an emphasis in multiculturalism, diverse learners, and learning sciences. The specialization provides advanced training for individuals working in outreach and advocacy, health, and human services, education, and businesses and corporations.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Human Development - Students will demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the major human development domains.
• Diversity - Students will demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of multicultural and pluralistic trends, including characteristics and concerns within and among diverse groups nationally and internationally.
• Integration of Developmental Science - Utilizing practice, prevention, and policy, students will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the developmental sciences.
• Communication - Students will demonstrate critical and innovative thinking.

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)

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 problem.
• 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.

Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences major requirements prepare undergraduate students for careers in wildlife and fisheries conservation and management. Coursework is directed at organisms, natural populations and communities, their habitats and human users. Imbedded in these courses are additional skills that further enable students to be competitive in the natural resources disciplines. These skills include communications, teamwork, leadership, ethics, statistics, technology, global competence, critical thinking, and problem solving. Most employment is with state and federal natural resource agencies. Each state has natural resource agencies that hire students with wildlife and fisheries sciences degrees and multiple federal agencies hire graduates from the program. In addition, employment opportunities exist with local and tribal governments, non-governmental organizations, and private industry. Many undergraduates continue their education by seeking advanced degrees.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences major, students will:

• Understand 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)
• 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)
• Apply natural resource field and lab techniques and contemporary technologies to management of natural resources. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Teamwork; Problem Solving)
• Analyze and critically evaluate data and other information. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Critical and Creative Thinking; Teamwork; Problem Solving)
• 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)
• Display professional and ethical behavior consistent with that expected in a natural resource management field. (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis; Information Literacy; Diversity, Inclusion and Equity)

The Agronomy, Horticulture, and Plant Science Department is an integrated department that includes programs in crop production, entomology, horticulture, plant biotechnology, plant breeding, plant pathology, precision farming, soils, water management, and weed science. The primary goals of the department are to conduct research in these areas, to transmit the results to the public, and to help prepare students for an occupation in these disciplines and to become productive members of a community. Graduate training includes classroom instruction, teaching experience, seminars designed to refine oral and written skills, and meaningful experience in laboratory and field research techniques. Departmental diversity encourages collaborations among disciplines and research programs that support this graduate training.

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)