2015-2016 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Apr 24, 2024  
2015-2016 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Student Services & Resources


Click on a link to be taken to the entry below.


Admissions


The Admissions Office assists students in attaining their educational goals by providing quality services and accurate information that will enable them to make an informed and appropriate college choice. In addition, the Admissions Office processes all applications for undergraduate admission and determines residency status for entering students. Questions concerning enrollment information, admission and transfer evaluation should be directed to SDSU Admissions Office, Enrollment Services Center, Box 511, Brookings, SD 57007-0649, phone 605-688-4121.

American Indian Education & Cultural Center


Since its founding in 2010, the American Indian Education and Cultural Center (AIECC) at South Dakota State University (SDSU) houses the American Indian Student Services (AISS) and American Indian Studies (AIS) programs, and remains as the nexus of cultural programming, services and advocacy that supports the recruitment, transition, retention, persistence and graduation of American Indian students. Together, AISS and AIS actively promote access to higher education and community resources, seeks to increase cross cultural engagement, encourages the appreciation of cultural and human differences, and advocates for the respectful inclusion of Indigenous knowledge. Thus, AISS and AIS assists the University community in understanding the relevance, efficacy and the strength of the American Indian experience. The AIECC staff is comprised of scholars and student affairs professionals devoted to strengthening relationships with, and among, the students, staff, and faculty of SDSU, and the tribal nations of South Dakota.

BluePrint Design & Print Center


BluePrint is a student-driven design and print center that is committed to customer service and quality design and print products. Interior banners, exterior banners, T-stands and digital displays in The Union are all advertising areas reserved and designed by staff. BluePrint can assist with any walk-in printing needs along with custom orders such as logo design (logo books), buttons, brochures, event programs and invitations. Located in the lower level of The Union, they have a homework-printing station for convenient and fast printing needs. Print order requests can also be emailed to sdsu.blueprint@sdstate.edu. The BluePrint Design and Print Center can be contacted at 605-588-5496 or for more information visit www.sdstate.edu/campus/studentunion/blueprint.cfm.

Career Development & Internship Services


Career Development staff promote student growth and development through variety of programming and services that facilitate the transition from student to professional and help students and employers connect. Students from all colleges and majors are welcome to take advantage of the support offered by the Career Center. Uncovering the best career opportunities takes time and the effort begins with the foundation of experience developed as early as the freshman year. Career inventories are available to help students assess their interests and abilities and connect them to careers. Whether searching for part-time or summer jobs, internships, or full-time employment, the Career Development staff offer assistance in learning effective job searching techniques. Services include individual coaching on resume writing, developing job search strategies, and improving interviewing skills, as well as special events such as practice interviews with area employers. In addition, the Career Center works with SDSU colleges to facilitate job fairs and on-campus interviews for the numerous employers that recruit SDSU students.

Students may register with Campanile Connections, www.myinterfase.com/jackscareerlink/student the free online career management system to search job listings, post resumes, sign up for on-campus interviews, research employers, and receive email notices regarding job listings. SDSU hosts an on-campus branch of the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulations for the convenience of students searching for part-time and summer jobs in Brookings and the around the state. The Career Center can be contacted at 605-688-4425, sdsu.careercenter@sdbor.edu, or for more information visit www.sdstate.edu/careercenter/.

Center for the Enhancement of Teaching & Learning


The SDSU Center for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning assists faculty in the development of service-learning courses utilizing any of a variety of service sites and varying lengths of service. Study may focus on a particular culture, social system, agency, skill set, or other chosen topic. Service-learning combines meaningful service in the community with a formal educational curriculum and structured time for participants to reflect on their service and educational experience. A variety of SDSU departments have integrated service-learning into courses and students are encouraged to contact specific departments for information. Assistance with the development of service-learning courses and identification of possible community partners can be obtained from the Center for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning by calling 605-688-6413.

Center for Student Engagement


The Center for Student Engagement is located in the Union and links students to a variety of programs and initiatives designed to promote their success at South Dakota State University. The center is home to career development and internship staff, as well as staff focused on serving student organizations, leadership development programs and campus wide engagement initiatives. The University Program Council, Greek Life, the Students’ Association and the New Student Orientation program also call the center home.

Clubs & Organizations


South Dakota State University has over 200 recognized Student Organizations.  A complete list of these organizations, their purpose, and contact information is maintained by the Office of Student Activities.  This list is also published annually and can be obtained from their office in the Union.  For more information visit www.sdstate.edu/campus/clubsorgs/index.cfm.

Dean of Students


The Dean of Students serves as the student Ombudsperson for the university. In the role of the “Ombuds,” the Dean of Students acts as a mentor or arbitrator rather than a conduct hearing officer. The goal is to help a student resolve an issue before it becomes a problem. For students in need of assistance or guidance, the Dean of Students office is an important resource. The office is located in SAD 312, phone 605-688-4493.

Dining Services


Campus Dining is committed to providing a dining service program at SDSU that is of the highest quality at a reasonable cost. Students can choose from a variety of offerings including “all-you-care-to-eat” buffet meals, food courts, convenience stores, ice cream shops, delis, specialty coffee, salad and soup bars, grab and go areas, and much more. All SDSU students living on campus are required to purchase a meal plan. Weary Wil’s and Einstein Bros. Bagels offer students special late night dining options.

Disability Services


Disability Services coordinates services for students with a wide range of disabilities. Services include coordinating testing accommodations, the acquisition of alternative format texts, classroom accommodations, referral to other service agencies, and coordinating additional services based on the individual needs of the student. For more information call 605-688-4504.

Diversity, Equity & Community Office


The purpose of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Community is to promote diversity in all its aspects by advising the university community, developing and implementing diversity enhancement programming, facilitating minority student recruiting and minority faculty and staff recruiting, and working to eliminate discrimination at SDSU. Diversity is defined as a stimulating environment generated by a variety of perspectives, opinions, values, knowledge, ideas, and personal histories represented on campus by people and programs. This variety is expressed through, but is not limited to, differences in ethnicity, race, gender, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, ability, class, and age.

South Dakota State University is committed to maintaining an environment which respects dignity and encourages members of the campus community to achieve their maximum potential, free from discrimination and harassment. Students and staff are encouraged to contact the Office of Diversity, Equity & Community with suggestions and recommendations for diversity programming and questions or concerns relating to diversity issues on campus. For more information contact the Office of Diversity, Equity & Community at 605-688-6556 or go online to www.sdstate.edu/diversity/.

English Language & Culture Institute


Develop academic English proficiency, explore American culture, and learn to communicate with confidence at South Dakota State University. The SDSU English Language & Culture Institute (ELCI) prepares students for the rigors of post-secondary academics, allowing them to communicate at high levels. The ELCI focuses on academic English, while enhancing students’ cognitive abilities and real-world problem-solving skills in the English context. Students are challenged to think beyond simply building language skills to embrace the attitude of learning.  The program offers student-centered teaching, critical thinking curriculum, focused instruction, progressive levels, and limited class sizes.  For more information call 605-688-5076 or visit www.sdstate.edu/international-affairs/esl/.

Enrollment Services


The Office of Enrollment Services is comprised of the Scholarship Office, Registrar’s Office, and Financial Aid. The mission of the Office of Enrollment Services is grounded in excellent customer service. These units provide the resources to assist students in achieving a successful college experience and also provide high quality services to current students, alumni, staff, faculty, and the general public. The Enrollment Services office strives to make all services available to students where, when and how they need them. These offices work closely with other university offices to ensure that current information is provided to students. Staff members are committed to providing exceptional service while exhibiting accuracy and efficiency in our work, and maintaining integrity, professionalism and respect. For further information contact the Registrar’s Office at 605-688-6195.

Financial Aid - The Financial Aid Office administers student financial assistance programs, including federal and state financial aid, and governmental agency awards. The phone number for Financial Aid is 605-688-4695.

Registrar’s Office - The Registrar’s Office assists students in meeting their academic goals through a variety of services that include on-line registration, adding and dropping classes, accessing final grades, academic transcripts, and coordinating the semester course schedule. Records and Registration staff are available to help students to understand the variety of policies, procedures, and deadlines that are in place. The phone number for Records and Registration is 605-688-6195.

Scholarships - Students receiving the Jackrabbit Guarantee or the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship may find information and advising on continuing scholarship eligibility, renewal, and retention. The phone number for Scholarships is 605-688-5201.

Extension


SDSU Extension provides an off campus informal educational function of SDSU and encompasses the following broad areas of programming: Agriculture, Family, Youth, and Communities. The mission of SDSU Extension is to disseminate and encourage the application of research-generated knowledge and leadership techniques to individuals, families, and communities in order to improve agriculture and strengthen the South Dakota family and community.

Through the work of field specialists, SDSU Extension disseminates the findings of research and encourages the application of knowledge for solutions of problems and for opportunities encountered in everyday living. Much of the economic progress of families and communities can be traced to this unique type of non-formal, out-of-classroom learning opportunity provided to them for nearly 100 years by SDSU in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and county governments.

The Extension staff is dedicated to assisting individuals and groups meet the challenges of change in farming, ranching, marketing, the home, community, state, and nation. The press, radio, TV, satellite, interactive audio-visual, the Internet, educational publications, group methods and individual contacts are used to inform and teach. Students are encouraged to become acquainted with the staff on campus and take advantage of the information available in Extension publications to enrich their course of study. Extension also offers rewarding career opportunities for graduates in agriculture, family and consumer sciences, natural resources, and other social sciences.

For information, contact the Director of SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792, Box 2207, Brookings, SD 57007, or visit the web site at http://igrow.org.

Hilton M. Briggs Library


Library services and collections are housed in the Briggs Library, which is named for President Hilton M. Briggs, who served the University from 1958 to 1975. Library collections consist of more than 675,000 bound volumes, 640,000 government documents, 18,000 e-books, 38,000 online journals and other electronic resources.

Briggs Library users have access to book, journal, archives, map and government documents collections as well as wireless networking, laptop loans and more than 80 public computer workstations providing access to the Internet, to library databases, and to software such as MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, statistical packages and more. Briggs Library contains group study/conference rooms for student use, informal lounge areas, and photocopiers and scanners. Special collections of congressional papers, archival, state and local history, and curriculum materials are available for students, faculty, and researchers. In addition, materials from thousands of other libraries worldwide are available through interlibrary loan. The Briggs Library building is also the home of International Affairs and Outreach, the Center for the enhancement of Teaching and Learning, and the Writing Center.

The faculty and staff of Briggs Library are proud of the services they offer to the SDSU community, as well as to distance students and faculty at Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Pierre and other locations throughout South Dakota and the U.S. Each year they teach hundreds of classes on information literacy and the use of library resources. They respond to thousands of information requests annually through personal contacts, via telephone at 605-688-5107, and by means of e-mail, online chat and texting. Look for the “Ask Us” link on the library homepage: www.sdstate.edu/library.

Intercollegiate Athletics


South Dakota State University is a Division I, National Collegiate Athletic Association member and offers competition in eleven sports for women and ten sports for men. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) governs competition for both women and men. Women compete in cross country, equestrian, indoor and outdoor track and field, volleyball, basketball, swimming, golf, tennis, softball and soccer. Men compete in cross country, indoor and outdoor track and field, football, basketball, swimming, golf, tennis, wrestling and baseball.  South Dakota State athletic teams have experienced broad based success. They are recognized regionally and nationally each year for the athletic accomplishments and academic achievements for their student-athletes and coaches.

Every undertaking within South Dakota State University’s Athletic Department is driven by a relentless commitment to excellence. We are committed to providing each and every student-athlete with a comprehensive collegiate experience. Academic achievement is important because it is the fundamental purpose of the student-athlete experience. Social responsibility is also a vital component. We expect to contribute to the well-being of our campus, community and state. Positive student-athlete experiences and competitive success also define our program because they are integral to the student-athlete’s growth. Our vision is to be recognized nationally for the complete development of the student-athlete, pursuit of excellence, uncompromising integrity and passionate fans.  In support of the University’s Mission and Vision, our passion, integrity and creativity will foster a source of pride for the SDSU community, State of South Dakota and region.  The important work of creating that setting is the heart of our mission: commitment to providing a student-athlete centered culture that promotes academic and competitive excellence while embracing equity, diversity and social responsibility.  We are guided by a stringent set of values that will not be compromised: honesty, equity, academic integrity, fiscal integrity and social responsibility with the expectation of competing at the highest level.

For general athletic department information call 605-688-5625, for athletic ticket information call 605-688-5422, 1-866-GoJacks (465-2257), or e-mail sdsu.tickets@sdstate.edu.

International Affairs, Office of


The Office of International Affairs (OIA) is the comprehensive home for international student and scholar services, international undergraduate admission, study abroad planning, and community connections programs. All services and activities are intended to help enrich the experience of international students here at SDSU and to help expand global engagement for all students, faculty and staff.

Formerly the Office of International Programs, the department was initially established in 1988 and was focused on creating a number of international education and research exchange partnerships. Today, OIA has educational partners on six continents and has expanded its focus to include international student services.

  • Study abroad staff advise faculty in planning SDSU-based global educational options and advise students of their study abroad options.
  • International student and scholars staff provide guidance and administrative support to hundreds of international students from over 60 countries.
  • Staff members also support the International Relations Council and its events and outreach, as well as help connect the campus community with International students and global issues through its Connections programs.

OIA has a variety of partners and affiliates. For more information, refer to www.sdstate.edu/international-affairs.

Logos, Seals, Caricatures, Wordmarks (Official Symbols)


University Marketing and Communications approves the use of the name or logo of South Dakota State University (in any form) for printed publication or for any type of merchandise, i.e., hats, t-shirts, mugs, etc., to be distributed. All SDSU logos, seals, caricatures or wordmarks are federally registered trademarks and cannot be used without permission.

To learn more about the university’s graphic identity, visit www.sdstate.edu/graphicidentity/.

For information on usage, please contact the Office of University Marketing and Communications at sdsu.umc@sdstate.edu or 605-688-6161.

Math Help Center


The Math Help Center, located in AME Building Room 292, provides free walk-in tutoring for students in MATH 095, 102, 103, 115, 120, 121, 123, 125, and STAT 281. No appointment is necessary.  For more information including a schedule of available tutoring time, visit www.sdstate.edu/mathstat/for-students/help.cfm.

Multicultural Center


The Multicultural Center develops campus initiatives that demonstrate the valued practice and philosophy of multiculturalism within the University community. The office provides support to students of color by providing tutorial services, multicultural and diversity programming, advising cultural organizations, and coordinating the Minority Peer Mentor Program. The Multicultural Center compliments the Division of Student Affairs’ mission by broadening the social, cultural, educational, and recreational experience of students. Phone: 605-688-5585.

MyJacks Card


The student identification card, now known as the MyJacks Card, can be used as a prepaid debit card to access prepaid accounts. In addition to its use in for the student meal plans, the MyJacks Card provides a prepaid account called Hobo Dough.  This account can be used for the bookstore, campus vending, laundry, photocopying and printing, and at selected off-campus businesses. Students may load funds at the Card Services office in the Student Union, the Briggs Library, Larson Commons, or Online. Upon graduation or leaving the University, these funds ($5.00 or more) will be returned in full upon request. No service charges are assessed for active accounts. However, accounts inactive for six (6) months or more are assessed a monthly service charge. If the service charge exceeds the account balance, the account is automatically closed.  For complete information regarding your MyJacks Card visit www.myjackscard.com.  

New Student Orientation


New Student Orientation assists the transition process for students new to SDSU.  NSO implements Orientation sessions for new, transfer, and readmit students throughout the year.  At Orientation, students register for classes, attend informational sessions, and receive other important information about being a student at SDSU.  After attending Orientation, students often feel much better prepared for life at SDSU.

Print Lab


The SDSU Print Lab, located in Yeager Hall, provides complete printing solutions for the campus community and its affiliates. We offer excellent service at competitive prices, our experienced professionals are dedicated to providing quality work for the SDSU community.

With the advent of desktop publishing programs, creating publications such as newsletters, brochures, posters, flyers, etc., has become much easier. Generally a project designed in-house does not necessarily mean it is “print ready”, nor does it mean it meets the graphic standards of university materials. 

The Office of University Marketing and Communications is charged with overseeing logo usage and university trademarks, for both internal and external audiences. Other than reprint orders, business cards and variable data publishing, projects being produced at the Print Lab must first be routed through University Marketing and Communications to be approved or files prepared for printing.

Print Lab offers variable data publishing, and can be the design starting point for projects utilizing variable data or versioning. VDP publishing is digitally-driven printing where design elements such as text and images are changed from one printed piece to the next, using information from a database, yet all the versions are printed in the same run. We can also generate emails, personalized websites and SMS messages that connect specifically to a customer via multiple channels.

A recent extension of the Print Lab, the SDSU Imaging Center is housed in the same building and uses state-of-the-art technology to bring new imaging capabilities to campus. 3D printing, wood burning, engraving, laser cutting and printing on adhesive and fabric are just a few of the options available to help students create more realistic and professional projects, and accommodate the innovation of new ideas to support the faculty and staff as well.

For more information on how we can service your office, department or organization, visit us on the first floor of Yeager Hall or call us at 688-5111, or e-mail: brenda.quam@sdstate.edu.

Residential Life


Housing and Residential Life administers programs and facilities for all on-campus housing. Further information and policies are available in the on-line Residential Life Handbook and Family Student Housing Information found on the department’s website. Housing and Residential Life is located on the first floor of Caldwell Hall. Residential Life can be contacted at 605-688-5148 or for more information visit www.sdstate.edu/reslife/.

Residence Halls - Residence Halls at SDSU are living units where students can study, meet other students, and be challenged to develop as individuals. Students within the first two years beyond graduation from high school are required by the Board of Regents (BOR) to enter into a residence hall and food service contract with the University.  Exceptions to the BOR policy require approval from University Housing and Residential Life.  Details on the Board of Regents’ requirements can be reviewed at (www.sdstate.edu/policies/upload/Student-Housing.pdf) or by contact University Housing and Residential Life.  Students who are not required to live on-campus should contact the office for availability of campus housing or assistance in locating off-campus options.

Residence Hall Confirmation Fee - The Residence Hall application information is available to students following admission to the University.  The housing application is located at https://MyState.sdstate.edu or by clicking on the Apply for Housing link at www.sdstate.edu/reslife/.  Students who do not have access to the Internet should contact Housing and Residential Life to make other arrangements.

Payment of a confirmation fee of $75 is required to complete the housing application process.  For first-time freshmen, $65 will be refunded student’s Hobo Dough account with the remaining $10 used to fund the College Student Inventory.  Transfer and other non-first year students will have the $75 credited in Hobo Dough in full.  The full $75 will be refunded to those students granted a release from the residency requirement on or before June 30 (November 30 for new spring semester applicants).  In addition, students who cancel their housing application after these dates will forfeit the confirmation fee.

Family Student Housing – The University maintains 78 unfurnished one-bedroom apartments and 6 unfurnished two-bedroom apartments for rent on campus.  Apartment come with a refrigerator, stove, and utilities are included.  Eligibility to reside in Family Student Housing requires acceptance to SDSU, enrolled in the equivalent to full-time student status, and plan to reside with their spouse and/or at least one dependent in the apartment.  Contact University Housing and Residential Life for more information.

University Apartments - Four-bedroom apartments for upper division single students are available in the Meadows North and South apartment complexes.  Monthly rent includes utilities, Internet, dishwasher, stove, refrigerator, and air conditioning.  Contracts are for Nine-months and a $75 confirmation fee must accompany all applications.  Students assigned to Meadows North can opt to arrive as early as August 1 and stay through May 31 for an additional charge.

Additional Information - Students participating in an internship, required student teaching, Study Abroad, or other academic related experiences outside of the Brookings area can be for an exemption to the BOR residency requirement.  For more information, contact University Housing and Residential Life.

Student Affairs


The Division of Student Affairs provides services and activities that are designed to help students gain the greatest benefit from their University education. The following departments are included in Student Affairs: Admissions, New Student Orientation, Office of Enrollment Services (Financial Aid, Records and Registration, and Scholarships), Office of Student Conflict Prevention, Management, and Conduct Services, Residential Life, The Union, Office of Student Engagement (Student Organizations, Greek Life, Program Board, Career Center), Multicultural Center/Student Support Services (Disability Services, Upward Bound, TRIO Student Support Services, Veterans Resource Center, African American, Latino, and GLBT student support), University Dining Services, and Wellness (Intramurals and Club Sports, Recreation, and Student Health & Counseling). If you have questions or need information about any of these areas, contact the Vice President for Student Affairs office in SAD 312, phone 605-688-4493. The specific programs and services offered by the departments are listed in this section and elsewhere in this catalog.

Student Conflict Prevention, Management, and Conduct Services, Office of


The Office of Student Conflict Prevention, Management, and Conduct Services is a point of contact for both faculty and staff on a variety of Student Affairs matters.  The functions of this office are of service to all students. Serving as ombuds, mediators, and hearing officers, this office helps students in all stages of adjustment and adaptation.  Upon request, the office assists faculty and staff to more comfortably and effectively address minor student concerns. 

Student Union


The Student Union provides an opportunity for student involvement with the campus community and a connection to the University. The department manages and operates the University Student Union, which includes services such as the Information Exchange, Outback Jacks, Blue Print Design Center, Central Reservations and State Technical Services. Students can cash checks, send faxes, play billiards, rent outdoor recreational equipment, reserve sound and lighting services for programs, and dine at the Market, Jacks’ Place, Einstein Bros. Bagels and Weary Wil’s Sports Grill. A full-service coffee, espresso and smoothie bar are also available at Java City. The department also facilitates the advising and support for student organizations. The Office of Student Engagement works closely with the University Program Council (UPC), Greek Life, the recognition of student organizations, and career development/internships. The department also coordinates the New Student Orientation program for the summer, fall, and spring and is engaged in the Lead State and Meet State programs.

This Union is home to The Collegian student newspaper, Students’ Association, Student Legal Services, KSDJ 90.7 campus radio station, Greek Life, Multicultural Student Organizations, University Program Council, Dining Services: the Market and Jacks’, the Bookstore, Card Services/Hobo Dough, and fifteen meeting rooms including the Volstorff Ballroom which add to the already extensive list of student programs and services that work to build a great student experience at State. For more information regarding the Union call 605-688-4960.

Technology & Security, Division of


The Division of Technology and Security provides the technology, skills, and services that contribute to and support the land-grant mission of South Dakota State University and is committed to creating an environment in which faculty and students develop opportunities which will make them successful in their scholarship, research, and creative activities. In addition, DTS actively promotes the incorporation of technology as a means of effectively and efficiently conducting University business.

The Office of Safety & Security, reporting to the Vice President for Technology and Security, is responsible for creating and maintaining a culture where safety and security are primary university considerations. A community with a culture placing safety and security as a priority is quantifiably safe and qualitatively secure: meaning the likelihood of loss or harm is low and the sense of personal security and well-being is high. 

South Dakota State University publishes an annual security report each fall in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crimes Statistics Act. The report which describes policies, enforcement, statistics, and prevention information programs is distributed to all staff and students. The crime report is also available upon request from the University Police Department.

Under the direction of Dr. Mike Adelaine, the Vice President for Information Technology and Security, programs, services, and support are provided to the university community.

Classroom Technology Services (CTS) - This unit is responsible for all technology-enhanced and DDN classrooms located on the University campus. This includes the initial installation of equipment, its maintenance, and upgrades. For more information, call 605-688-6312.

Information Security - This unit ensures University data security and establishes procedures to protect information, users, and the University. Questions or concerns should be reported to the Support Desk (688.6776) immediately. For more information, call 605-688-4988.

Support Desk - DTS serves as contact for students, faculty, and staff needing tech support through its operation of the Support Desk. Equipment loan, repair, and the maintenance of general use computer labs are also the responsibility of DTS. For more information, call 605-688-6776.

Instructional Design Services (IDS) - This unit offers faculty services in instructional design, distributed learning, and the use of integrated media in the classrooms. They also provide faculty with training in a wide variety of software programs and applications, as well as instruction in the use of equipment. For more information, call 605-688-6312.

University Networking and Research (UNR) - UNR provides the infrastructure upon which technology systems are built and assures Internet access to the campus community. In addition, they maintain the server farm, on which the majority of institutional software and applications are run. For more information, call 605-688-4988.

Environmental Health and Safety Office - The primary function of the Environmental Health and Safety office is to assist campus personnel in making SDSU a safe learning and working environment for faculty, staff, and students. The EHS office is responsible for enforcing federal, state and local safety and environmental rules and regulations, including radiation, chemical, and biological safety; management of hazardous materials and conditions; management of indoor air quality in cooperation with Facilities and Services; recycling of electronics, batteries, and heavy metal containing light bulbs; disposal of hazardous wastes and other functions relating to research, teaching and administrative duties. EHS provides training in the various areas listed above, not only to be in compliance with regulations, but to be sure that all SDSU students, staff and visitors, have an enjoyable and safe experience at SDSU. For staff and students with questions concerning any of these functions contact EHS at: Environmental Health & Safety Avera Science Center 143; Box 2202, Brookings, SD 57007 Phone: 605-688-4264 E-mail: EHS@sdstate.edu.

Emergency Management – The primary function is to prepare for, mitigate the effects of, respond to, and recover from real or potential man-made or natural disasters by providing leadership and overseeing the planning, organization and management of emergency responses and related training in order to provide a safe campus. 

University Police Department - UPD is a full service provider of non-emergency and emergency public safety services. It is a professional law enforcement organization that works diligently to be progressive, effective, and efficient for the community served and will do everything possible to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience at SD State.

TRIO Programs


TRIO Student Support Services - TRIO Student Support Services is a federally funded TRIO grant program designed to support students in achieving academic success. To assist students’ success at SDSU the following support services are available through the SSS Program: 1) individualized support in managing academic pursuits; 3) personalized financial, career, and social support services to ease transitions through college; 2) tutorial services in a variety of course areas (including math, English, and basic sciences); 3) referral assistance to other campus support services; and 4) priority registration at the beginning of each academic semester. Since services to students are individualized, participation in the program may substantially increase participants’ chances for success at SDSU.

The ultimate goal of SSS is to increase the number of students who are retained and graduated from SDSU. To be eligible for services, a participant must fit one of the following criteria: 1) a first generation student - neither parents finished a 4-year college degree, 2) an individual with a documented disability that impacts ability to be successful in an academic program, and/or 3) an individual from an economically disadvantaged family who needs financial assistance to attend and be successful in college. For more information on Student Support Services, visit the office in SSU 065. Phone: 605-688-6653.

TRIO Upward Bound - Upward Bound is a Federally Funded program designed to support high school students in their preparation for successful college graduation. Upward Bound provides support in areas of tutoring, mentoring, cultural enrichment, college tours, personal development, and academic preparation. To participate, students must be either first-generation college-bound or parents meet the federal income guidelines; and be enrolled in one of the five participating high schools located in Sioux Falls and Flandreau, SD. Phone: 605-688-6653.

University Marketing & Communications


The mission of University Marketing and Communications is to enhance and protect the institutional reputation of South Dakota State University; to advance and strengthen the institution’s brand; to encourage community engagement and to reinforce the university’s relevance to key audiences.

The guiding principles that support marketing and communications include:

  • Effectively enhance awareness and understanding of events, policies, issues and developments within the university community through a results-based communications process that is consistent and of high quality;
  • Ensure quality is achieved through ongoing dialogue, collaboration and an exchange of ideas to best reflect university attitudes, cultures, identities, perspectives and social systems; and
  • Maintain industry standards and best practices as they apply to creative services, design, production, technology platforms, and informational and media services through measurement, evaluation and analysis.

University Marketing and Communications will serve as the central communications office for the university. It will foster and expand relationships with internal and external audiences and align communications initiatives and messaging with the university’s strategic direction and goals. Marketing and communications functions include Strategic Communications, Web and New Media, Creative Services and Branding, Marketing, Photography, and Trademarks and Licensing.

For more information on the services offered through University Marketing and Communications, visit www.sdstate.edu/umc.

Veterans Affairs Office


The office is responsible for providing services and coordinating programs for veterans which includes coordinating orientation program for veterans, house the Federal Certifying Official to assist students with their financial aid, assisting veterans who are deployed while still enrolled at SDSU, provide additional support to the SDSU Armed Forces Association, collaborating with the city and county agencies that assist veterans, working with returning National Guard units and other active duty personnel to assist with their admission/ re-admission to SDSU. The office also works collaboratively with Financial Aid, Counseling Center, and Disability Services to provide services and support to SDSU Veterans. For more information please visit SSU 065 or Phone: 605-688-5585.

Wellness Center


The Wellness Center is dedicated to supporting academic success and personal development by promoting and encouraging healthy lifestyle for the members of the SDSU community. The Wellness Center houses state of the art fitness equipment, a variety of recreational and intramural programs, effective wellness education, and a student health clinic and counseling center. Services and programs provided are detailed below. Further information about the Wellness Center is available at 605-697-WELL(9355), sdsu.wellnesscenter@sdstate.edu, or go online to www.sdstate.edu/wellness-center.

Fitness - We strive to provide current and diverse programming to enhance life-long health and well-being. Knowledgeable professionals serve the students, faculty, and community to assist them in making appropriate decisions about their fitness and nutritional desires. A varied menu of activities and programs are offered including: cardio and weight equipment; land, water and Spinning classes; walking/running track; pool; three gyms; a climbing pinnacle and bouldering wall. Staff can provide personal orientation, personal fitness evaluations, and can design a personal program to meet fitness goals. For further information regarding the Wellness Center, hours, and its services, call 605-688-6415 or go online to www.sdstate.edu/wellness-center.

Nutrition Counseling - We believe that nutrition is an important aspect of being healthy. The Wellness Center offers nutrition counseling with a registered dietitian for dietary lifestyle changes, college weight gain, specialized plans for specific health conditions, and eating disorders. Appointments can be made through the Student Health Clinic by calling 605-688-4157.

Intramural Sports - The Intramural Program provides the opportunity for all activity-fee-paying students, both undergraduate and graduate, to participate in organized and informal sports as regularly as their time and interests permit. SDSU faculty and staff, that are members of the SDSU Wellness Center, are also encouraged to join a student intramural team and/or start their own faculty/staff team and compete in the intramural program. Activities are organized on an individual, team, and club basis. Leagues are established for women, men, and mixed (co-rec) competition activities. There are multiple recreational sports including flag football, 3-on-3 basketball, volleyball, basketball, softball, and many more to choose from. Intramural registration is online at www.imleagues.com.

Sport Clubs - Sport clubs offer specialized participation ranging from a social setting on campus, to instructional programming, to competition with clubs from other universities within the region. There are multiple club sports opportunities including hockey, rugby, men’s soccer, cricket, bowling, and ultimate Frisbee which compete regionally giving SDSU students additional recreation opportunities. For further information, contact the Intramural Staff at 605-688-6881.

Student Health Clinic  - The Health Clinic provides primary care for illnesses and injuries, laboratory diagnostics, reproductive health, physical examinations, immunizations, international travel health, and nutritional counseling to SDSU students. All SDSU students are eligible for services. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. when classes are in session. During summer and academic breaks limited appointments are available. For further information or to make an appointment call 605-688-4157. For more information, visit www.sdstate.edu/wellness-center/clinic.

Jackrabbit Pharmacy -The Pharmacy serves all eligible SDSU students, faculty/staff, their family members, and Family Planning patients. The SDSU Jackrabbit Pharmacy accepts prescriptions from doctors outside of the student health clinic. We offer competitively priced over-the-counter and prescription medications along with discounted birth control. For more information, call 605-688-5410 or visit www.sdstate.edu/wellness-center/pharmacy.

Brookings Family Planning - The family planning services provide education, counseling, medical, and birth control services along with pregnancy testing and sexually transmitted Infections (STI) screenings. Cost of services is based on family income and size. Anyone (student or non-student) is eligible to receive these services.  For more information or to make an appointment, call 605-688-6622 or visit www.sdstate.edu/wellness-center/family.

Counseling Services - Counseling Services provide individual and group counseling to students with emotional, behavioral, and/or academic concerns to promote retention and success at SDSU. Common issues include mood disorders, substance use/abuse, relationship concerns, and personal and professional growth. All SDSU students are eligible for services. Counselors are available for emergencies after hours during the school year by contacting UPD at 605-688-5117, who will then contact the counselor on-call. For further information, call 605-688-6146 or visit www.sdstate.edu/wellness-center/counseling.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Programs - SDSU, through the Department of Student Health and Counseling Services, provides alcohol and drug abuse information and prevention programs to the campus community. Alcohol and drug abuse assessment is available on an individual basis. Counseling and medical services are available to students and referrals to other agencies are available to everyone on campus. For further information, call 605-688-6146 or 605-688-4157.

Wintrode Student Success Center


Opening its doors in 2007, the Wintrode Student Success Center features the Wintrode Tutoring Program, the First Year Advising Center, and Academic Success Program.

Wintrode Tutoring & Supplemental Instruction Program - SDSU students receive free tutoring in select courses through scheduled appointments or walk-in sessions. Scheduled appointments typically are held in small groups, although requests for one-on-one tutoring may be accommodated, depending on tutor availability. Students who would like tutoring in a subject that is not on the regular course list should contact the Tutoring Coordinator for assistance with finding a tutor. Beginning in the fall of 2011, the Wintrode Tutoring Program developed the Supplemental Instruction (SI) program.  SI sessions are regularly scheduled weekly review sessions, led by an SI leader. For more information visit www.sdstate.edu/index/si.cfm.

First Year Advising Center - The First-Year Advising Center (FYAC) is designed to assist students with the college transition and with building a firm academic foundation. Academic advisors in the FYAC advise most incoming first-year students and all students who have not declared a major.  Advisors help students set academic, career, and personal goals and assist them with identifying strategies to meet those goals. They also connect students with important campus resources, such as tutoring, the Office of Career Development, and Student Health and Counseling. For more information visit www.sdstate.edu/gs/students/advising/index.cfm.

Academic Success Program - The Academic Success Program targets students who are currently on probation or have been readmitted to South Dakota State University following suspension due to low academic achievement. Program participants in the Academic Success program are enrolled in UC 011, Strategies for Academic Success.  Students are matched with a successful peer mentor who will meet with students throughout the semester they are enrolled in the UC 011 course. For more information visit www.sdstate.edu/gs/students/academicsuccess/index.cfm.

Writing Center


The SDSU Writing Center serves all students enrolled in the university, both graduate and undergraduate. Students can chat about an essay for a composition or history class, a research paper, abstracts for a human development or sociology paper, or a job or graduate school application letter-in short, any type of writing that they have concerns about. Consultations take place during any stage of the writing process - from determining the ideas, focus, and framework to citing sources and figuring out how semi-colons work and polishing the style. The Writing Center is located in 103 Briggs Library.  The Writing Center can be contacted at 605-688-6559 or for more information visit  www.sdstate.edu/engl/for-students/writingcenter/index.cfm.