Program Overview

Exploratory Studies Program

The Exploratory Studies Program is designed for students who are uncertain about their choice of major or want to explore the academic opportunities available at South Dakota State University. This program allows students to investigate different fields of study before deciding on a major.

Program Overview

The Exploratory Studies Program offers five tracks of introductory coursework, each exposing students to specific insights about careers and opportunities within certain fields of study. During the application process, students select a track of their choice. In the first semester, students participate in a first-year seminar course that assists with the transition to the university and a careers course that introduces them to academic expectations and career opportunities specific to their track.

Tracks and Majors

The five tracks are:

1. Education, Social Sciences and Management: This track includes majors such as Early Childhood Education, Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Global Studies, Human Development and Family Science, Interdisciplinary Studies, Secondary Teacher Education, and more.
2. Humanities, Fine Arts and Design: Majors in this track include Advertising, American Indian and Indigenous Studies, Architecture, Art Education, English, Fashion Studies and Retail Merchandising, and others.
3. Health Sciences: This track encompasses majors like Community and Public Health, Exercise Science, Human Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing, Nutrition and Dietetics, and Pre-Health Professional Interest Areas.
4. Engineering, Technology and Math: Majors include Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Agricultural Systems Technology, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Construction Management, and more.
5. Agricultural and Natural Science: This track includes majors such as Agricultural and Resource Economics, Agricultural Business, Agricultural Education, Communication and Leadership, Agricultural Sciences, Agronomy, and others.

Course Recommendations by Major

Each major within the tracks has specific course recommendations. For example:

• Early Childhood Education: ECE 150/ECE 150L, HDFS 210, HDFS 241, PSYC 101, among others.
• Global Studies: GLST 201, REL 250, ECON 202, and language placement exams.
• Detailed course recommendations are provided for each major across all tracks.

Exploratory Studies Program Student Learning Outcomes

The program aims for students to:

1. Make educated decisions regarding course selection and degree programs based on interests, abilities, values, and goals.
2. Select a major by the end of the second term or by the time 30 credits are earned and understand the degree requirements.
3. Pursue a balanced education both in and out of the classroom.
4. Be an active and self-directed learner.

Faculty

The program is supported by a faculty that includes instructors and lecturers with expertise in their fields, such as Laura Nelson, Jamie Fryslie, Melissa Granum, Teri Johnson, and Bonnie Shinn.

By providing a structured yet flexible framework, the Exploratory Studies Program at South Dakota State University helps students navigate their academic and professional interests, ultimately leading to a more focused and fulfilling educational experience.