Policies and General Academic Information

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This section outlines academic policies as well as general information related to academics at South Dakota State University. The South Dakota State University Policy and Procedure Manual is the definitive source for the most current South Dakota State University policies.  Policies duplicated on other websites or in print may not be the most current version. All policies documented on the site are official and supersede policies located elsewhere. South Dakota State University is governed by state and federal law, administrative regulations, and policies of the South Dakota Board of Regents (SDBOR) and the State of South Dakota.

Academic Advising

South Dakota State University’s mission is to provide a rich academic experience in an environment that promotes access and opportunity through inspired, student-centered education, creative activities and research, innovation, and engagement that enhance the quality of life in South Dakota, the region, the nation, and the world. Quality advising is integral to this mission and the overall success of SDSU students. In support of the mission, SDSU offers students a comprehensive advising model grounded in collaboration between professional academic advisors, student success advisors and faculty advisors in academic departments. Each student is assigned an academic advisor and is asked to meet with this advisor at least twice during the academic year to plan for future course enrollment. Students are encouraged to meet with their advisor frequently to review degree progress, discuss professional and personal goals, ask questions, and request support with academic and personal challenges.

Purpose of Academic Advising

Academic advising is a teaching and learning process through which students learn to become members of their higher education community, to think critically about their roles and responsibilities as students, and to prepare to be educated citizens of a democratic society and a global community (NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising, 2006). Through a holistic approach, advisors help students explore, identify, and accomplish personal and professional goals. The advising process at SDSU is a shared responsibility between the student and the advisor.

Goals of Academic Advising

• Assist students in the exploration and definition of immediate and lifelong goals.
• Encourage students to explore and engage with beneficial experiences to enhance their university experience and contribute to the world around them.
• Inspire students to understand their freedom of choice and accept their responsibility for academic progress and planning.

Role of the Advisee

The advisee role in academic planning is to be involved, responsible, and committed to understanding academic requirements. Advisees also should develop academic, career and personal goals and implement related action steps.

Rights of the Advisee

• The right to an advisor who fulfills the SDSU advising goals, role, and responsibilities.
• The right to know and have timely access to an assigned advisor.
• The right to protection and review of academic advising-related files and materials in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
• The right to receive pertinent and accurate information as needed for career, academic, and employment planning.
• The right to request a change of academic advisor assignment.
• The right to clear procedures for conveying concerns relative to the quality of academic advising.

Responsibilities of the Advisee

• Initiate regular progress appointments and seek advisor assistance when concerns or questions arise.
• Develop and make timely progress on academic and career plans.
• Understand and meet university, college, and department graduation requirements.
• Follow through on activities, tasks, or requirements as discussed with advisor.
• Recognize that the ultimate responsibility for timely completion of degree and academic requirements rests with the advisee.

Role of the Academic Advisor

The academic advisor’s role is to promote student learning, development, and success through intentional curriculuar and co-curricular experiences. Advisors should be knowledgeable in academic programs and university requirements and should assist students with setting and achieving goals related to course registration and degree planning, campus engagement, academic performance, and financial and personal well-being.

Responsibilities of the Academic Advisor

• Facilitate Relationship Development. Be available to students, provide opportunities for students to share their goals, questions, and concerns in a confidential setting, and create relationships grounded in challenge, support, and mutual respect.
• Recognize the Unique Needs of Students. Create an environment that invites different perspectives and allows for open exchanges of information.
• Enhance Advising through Use of Technology. Utilize advising technologies including ConnectState (EAB Navigate360) as the primary advising tool, Banner Self-service, Self-service Consumer (Cognos) Reports, and ImageNow (WebNow) to provide targeted advising support for students.
• Furnish Accurate Information. Provide students with accurate information about university, college, and department graduation requirements, and assist them with selecting and registering for appropriate courses that meet those requirements.
• Refer to Campus and Community Resources. Provide students with accurate information about campus and community resources and encourage them to use these resources as appropriate.
• Maintain Advisee Records. Keep current advisee records and personal information in accordance with confidentiality requirements, using ConnectState as the primary tool for documenting advising interactions.
• Encourage Timely Progress Toward Degree. Advocate timely planning and progress toward educational goals. Communicate regularly with advisees regarding university policies, procedures, and deadlines that impact progress toward degree.
• Encourage Advisee Growth. Encourage students to engage in university experiences and opportunities that help them become self-directed and self-sufficient learners.
• Support Student Success and Retention. Assist with achieving positive student outcomes by responding to students’ unique academic challenges as identified through interactions with students, early alert, midterm deficiencies, and other communication processes. Engage students in individualized conversations and activities to increase the probability of degree completion.
• Develop Advising Knowledge and Skills. Participate in professional development activities that will enhance advising knowledge and skills.

Academic Amnesty

(SDSU Policy 2:9, SDBOR Policy 2.8.1)

This policy and its procedures implement SDBOR Policy 2.8.1. The goal of academic amnesty is to respond to the academic needs of individuals as they develop newly identified potential. Through the application of academic amnesty, the student’s prior academic record can be excluded from current work under certain conditions.

Policy

1. To be eligible, the student must:

   1. be an undergraduate, full-time or part-time, degree-seeking student at the University;
   2. not have been enrolled in any postsecondary institution for a minimum of three (3) consecutive terms prior to the most recent admission to the home institution.
   3. have completed a minimum of twelve (12) graded credit hours taken at any SDBOR university with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 for the twelve (12) credit hours after the most recent admission to the home institution;
   4. not have earned an associate or baccalaureate degree from any accredited university;
   5. not have been granted any prior academic amnesty at any SDBOR university; and
   6. submit the Academic Amnesty Petition Form to the Records and Registration Office following the procedures established by the University.
   7. Exceptions may be granted in rare cases only by the SDBOR Vice President for Academic Affairs upon recommendation by the University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.
2. Conditions:
   1. Academic amnesty does not apply to individual courses.
   2. Academic amnesty may be requested for either (a) all previous post-secondary education courses, or (b) all previous post-secondary education courses at a specific post-secondary institution, or (c) a specified time period not to exceed one (1) academic year (Fall/Spring) completed at any postsecondary institution(s).
   3. Academic amnesty, if granted, shall not be rescinded.
   4. Courses for which academic amnesty is granted will:
      1. Remain on the student’s permanent record;
      2. Be recorded on the student’s undergraduate transcript with the original grade followed by an asterisk (*);
      3. Not be included in the calculation of the student’s grade point average because no credit is given;
      4. Not be used to satisfy any of the graduation requirements of the current degree program.
   5. Academic amnesty decisions will be made by the student’s home institution, will be honored by all undergraduate programs within the home institution, and will be honored by all undergraduate programs at other institutions within the SDBOR system.
   6. Universities outside of the SDBOR system are not bound by the academic amnesty decisions made by the SDBOR system.
   7. SDBOR undergraduate programs and graduate professional schools may consider all previous undergraduate course work when making admission decisions.

Procedures

1. The student completes the Academic Amnesty Petition Form. Attach any letters, transcripts or documentation that would be pertinent to the petition.
2. Student returns completed petition to the University’s Records and Registration Office for review.
3. If the student meets all of the requirements for academic amnesty the completed and reviewed petition will be forwarded to the student’s Academic Advisor for review and signature. The advisor will forward to the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs or designee for review and approval.
4. Once all approvals/signatures are secured, it will be returned to the Records and Registration office by the Office of Academic Affairs.
5. The student will be notified of approval.
6. If the student does not meet the requirements for academic amnesty, the student will be contacted by the Records and Registration Office and notified of which requirements were not met.
7. If a student is determined to not be eligible for academic amnesty due to not meeting requirement a.ii
   1. If the student would like to request an exception due to not meeting requirement a.ii, resubmit the completed petition and any supporting documentation to the Office of Academic Affairs for consideration.
   2. The Office of Academic Affairs will notify the student of the decision.
   3. Exceptions are considered when the student does not meet requirement a.ii. If other requirements are not met, exceptions are not considered.

Academic Integrity and Academic Appeals

(SDSU Policy 2:4, SDSU Policy 3:1, SDBOR Policy 2.9.2, SDBOR Policy 3.4.1)

South Dakota State University has taken a strong and clear stand regarding academic dishonesty. Academic integrity embodies ethical principles to act responsibly and take responsibility for one’s actions. Integrity and honor function as forms of a “social contract” where individuals have a duty to follow the rules and norms of academia as well as a duty to ensure their peers also follow such rules and norms. Undergraduate and graduate students at the University are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic conduct; if violated, the University takes a strong and clear stand regarding academic dishonesty. The consequence of academic dishonesty ranges from disciplinary probation to expulsion. For additional information on the academic dishonesty and academic appeals process and procedure reference SDSU Policy 2:4, SDSU Policy 3:1, SDBOR Policy 2.9.2, and SDBOR Policy 3.4.1.

Academic Performance and Progression

Each student is responsible for satisfying requirements for graduation as listed under overall university, college, and major field requirements. If a student has questions concerning the proper satisfaction of specific requirements, he/she should consult with the dean, major advisor, or the Registrar.

Class Standing Definitions and Progression Standards

(SDBOR Policy 2.8.1)

Minimum Progression Standards

Minimum progression standards and related actions are based on the student’s cumulative grade point average and system term grade point average.

Good Academic Standing

A student, who meets or exceeds the cumulative grade point average requirements as listed, is in good academic standing. The Academic Standing process is completed at the end of the Fall and Spring Term. A good academic standing is at or above a cumulative 2.0 GPA.

Academic Probation

The academic standing process shall be completed in each of the Fall and Spring terms. If a student’s cumulative grade point average falls below the GPA standard, the student shall be placed on academic probation for the following term(s) until academic progression is processed.

While on academic probation the student must earn a system term grade point average that meets or exceeds the GPA standard required. During this period, the student’s academic success team (as determined by the institution) is expected to monitor and meet with the student to best position him or her for success.

When a student on academic probation achieves a cumulative grade point average that meets or exceeds the GPA standard, the student is returned to good academic standing.

Students enrolling in the Regental system for the first time with prior credit, including internal and external transfer students and dual credit students, shall not be placed on probation by their designated home institution until they have been enrolled at a Regental university for one (1) academic term.

Academic Suspension

A student on academic probation who fails to maintain a term and/or cumulative grade point average that meets or exceeds the GPA standard required by the next Academic Standing process is placed on academic suspension for a minimum of two academic terms.

A student on academic suspension will not be allowed to enroll for any coursework at any Regental university except when an appeal has been approved by the Regental university from which the student is pursuing a degree. An approved appeal granted by one Regental university will be honored by all Regental universities. 

Undergraduate academic progress shall not be notated on the transcript. Institutions may insert academic progress on the graduate transcript.

Rate of Progress

(SDBOR Policy 2.6.1)

Each student is advised by a member of the faculty or professional staff. Classes consistent with your plan of study and properly adjusted as to the amount of work are arranged by the advisor and subject to approval by the dean.

The normal rate of progress for a student classified as an undergraduate is 15 semester credits and 30 grade points each semester. To be a full-time student, undergraduates must carry 12 semester credits. Undergraduates are not permitted to register in 19 or more semester credits the first term. Registration in 19 or more semester credits in subsequent terms is permitted only when the previous semester’s work shows high achievement.

All overloads of 19 or more credit hours must be approved by the dean or designee of the student’s college. Students must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.70. Other factors to consider when requesting a credit overload include: total credits attempted and completed, specific courses, and time to graduation. 

Withdrawal

(SDSU Policy 5:28, SDBOR Policy 2.1.1, SDBOR Policy 2.1.2; SDBOR Policy 2.1.3, SDBOR Policy 2.3.2, SDBOR Policy 5.5, SDBOR Policy 5.7)

Those finding it necessary to withdraw from the University are urged to consult with a faculty advisor or a professional academic advisors to work out the best plan possible and then contact the Registrar’s Office, Enrollment Services Center to process a withdrawal. Those who leave the University without processing an official withdrawal will be reported as having failed the semester’s work. Grades transcripted are based on the withdrawal date. A student may withdraw from the University until 70% of instruction has been completed (contact the Registrar’s Office for date information). After that date, if extenuating circumstances (i.e., illness) have prevented class participation, a petition for withdrawal may be filed through the Registrar’s Office.

A student is considered withdrawn during a term if classes have begun and:

1. The student has registered for at least one course and the student has initiated withdrawal from all courses at all Regental universities in which the student was actively enrolled at the time of withdrawal, including courses in progress as well as those that have not yet begun, or;
2. The Home Institution has completed withdrawal procedures for administrative reasons including, without limitation, non-payment of tuition and fees or disciplinary sanctions.
3. Students enrolled in two or more Regental universities pursuant to financial aid consortia will be eligible for refunds as set forth herein only if they withdraw, drop out or are expelled from all classes at all Regental universities for which they have enrolled.

Students who withdraw or are administratively withdrawn, suspended or expelled from the Regental system within the drop/add period receive a 100 percent refund of tuition and per credit hour fees. Students who withdraw or are administratively withdrawn, suspended or expelled from the Regental system after the date the first 10 percent of the term ends for the period of enrollment for which they are assessed may be entitled to a refund as set forth in SDBOR Policy 5.7.

Grades for Withdrawals from the Regental System (see “Withdrawals” for additional information) 

Students who completely withdraw from the Regental system from the first day of a class(es) through census date of the class(es) will have a comment on the transcript stating Withdrawal and the date of the withdrawal.  Undergraduate students who withdraw from the System shall receive a grade of “WW” and graduate students shall receive a grade of “W” if that action occurs anytime between the day after the census day for that course and the day that corresponds with the completion of 70 percent of the class days for that course. 

A notation of the date of withdrawal will be included on the student’s transcript if he/she withdraws from the system. 

Academic Recognition

Dean’s List Designation

(SDBOR Policy 2.8.1)

Undergraduate, full-time students may be designated for the Dean’s List at the end of the fall and spring terms. The Dean’s List designation is determined by the home university and is based on a student’s total course registrations for academic credit for the term from any Regental university. The Dean’s List designation does not appear on the transcript.

To be awarded Dean’s List designation, students must meet the following guidelines.

1. Students must have earned a minimum of twelve (12) credit hours in courses numbered 100-699 during the term.
2. Students must achieve a System Term GPA of at least 3.50.
3. Students with F, I, U, RI, or RU grades are not eligible regardless of System Term GPA attained.

Academic Recognition for Part-Time Students

(SDBOR Policy 2.8.1)

Undergraduate, part-time students taking fewer than twelve (12) credits per term may be designated for Academic Recognition for Part-Time Students at the end of the fall and spring terms. The Academic Recognition for Part-Time Students designation is determined by the home university. The Academic Recognition for Part-Time Students designation does not appear on the transcript. To be awarded the Academic Recognition for Part-Time Students designation, students must meet the following guidelines:

1. Students must have completed at least twelve (12) credit hours prior to the current semester at one or more Regental institutions.
2. The student must have earned at least three (3) and up to eleven (11) credit hours of 100-699 level courses during the term.
3. Students must achieve a System Term GPA of at least 3.50.
4. Students with F, I, U, RI, or RU grades are not eligible regardless of System Term GPA attained.

Assessment

Faculty and staff must assess how well students achieve learning outcomes for a program, class, or service. As a result, students will encounter assessment activities for courses, general education, and academic and co-curricular programs. Examples of activities include standardized exams, surveys, quizzes, and focus groups. These activities are designed for students to enhance learning, faculty to improve instruction, and staff to enhance co-curricular activities and services. Assessment activities uphold our commitment to academic excellence and quality programming. For further information about program assessment, general education assessment, or co-curricular assessment, please contact the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment.

Attendance Policy

(SDSU Policy 2:5, SDSU Policy 2:12)

Policy

1. Teaching and learning is a reciprocal process involving faculty and students. Faculty members have an obligation of holding classes on a regular basis and students have an expectation to attend and participate in classes on a regular basis. Faculty members determine the specific attendance policy for courses under their direct supervision and instruction. Attendance procedures must be stated in written form, in the course syllabus, and distributed or posted electronically to students at the beginning of each course. If attendance is required and will impact grading, this expectation shall be included in the syllabus.

2. Any exceptions to the faculty member’s written attendance policy due to verified medical reasons, death of a family member or significant other, or verified extenuating circumstances judged acceptable by the instructor or the Office of Academic Affairs, will be honored. Absences for vacations, breaks, or personal interviews do not constitute a valid reason for absence.

3. Faculty and administration will honor officially approved absences where individuals are absent in the interest of officially representing the University. Appropriate sanctioned activities include: Collegiate club sports and competitions; Conferences and workshops recognized by the University not related to academics; Commitments on behalf of the University (Students’ Association, Band, Choir, etc.); Intercollegiate athletics; and Professional activities recognized by the University related to academics (professional conference attendance, etc.)

4. Students with official excused absences will be given appropriate make up work or instructor-determined equivalent opportunities for obtaining grades as students who were in attendance. Students with official excused absences are not to be penalized in course progress or evaluation. However, should excused absences be excessive, the faculty member may recommend withdrawal from the course(s) or award an incomplete grade.

5. Attendance policies apply in the online classroom. Faculty members determine the specific attendance policy for courses under their direct supervision and instruction. Attendance procedures must be stated in written form and made available to students on the first day of the course. Common strategies for demonstrating “attendance” in an online course include login requirements per week, an identified number of discussion postings per week, consistent contact with peers and instructor, and/or other assignments as determined by the instructor. Also, students are expected to login to their class on the first day of the semester.

6. Student-Athlete Class Attendance

   1. No student-athlete may be absent from more than ten (10) class sessions (including required laboratory sessions) of a given course in a semester for official University travel for competition.
   2. Athletic excused absences will not be approved during final examination period with the exception of required conference or NCAA activities.
   3. In the interest of safety for student-athletes and staff, missed class-time resulting from travel delays associated with inclement weather will be excused.

Procedures

1. If a student has an accident, falls ill, or suffers some other emergency over which they have no control, the student needs to gather whatever documentation is available (e.g., copies of repair or towing bills, accident reports, or statements from health care provider) to show the instructor. Such exceptions must be communicated and negotiated between the student and faculty member prior to the absence whenever possible.
2. Requests for excused absences due to approved University-sponsored/recognized trips must be submitted and approved one (1) week prior to the trip or event. Students must present the completed approved Trip Absence Card to the faculty member prior to the trip or event to have an official excused absence. Faculty members are not required to honor incomplete or late cards. Absences for trips or activities will not be approved during finals week.
3. Student-athletes will provide notification via the Athletics Trip Absence Card or a letter to their instructors outlining expected absences. This letter will include the opponent/host, competition location, and departure/return times. Student-athletes will print and hand-deliver the letter to each instructor, preferably during the first week of class, and will email a copy of the letter to their instructors for all courses.
4. Arrangements regarding attendance should be negotiated with faculty members. If this is not possible, the students should go first to the department head/school director, and if necessary, next to the dean. The student may contact the Office of Academic Affairs if conflict cannot be resolved at these levels.
5. Waivers to the above rules, as they pertain to student athletes, require the approval of the Intercollegiate Athletics Board or its designee at the time of scheduling or as soon thereafter as is reasonably possible (if circumstances dictate the need for finalizing a contract or schedule prior to gaining Intercollegiate Athletics Board approval).

Commitment to Freedom of Expression

(SDBOR Policy 1.6.2)

South Dakota State University is committed to the principles of expression protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. Those principles include a commitment to freedom in learning, academic freedom, freedom of expression, and freedom of association. In addition, the university is committed to fostering a learning environment that exposes students to and encourages exploration of a variety of ideological and political perspectives. Any complaints about violations of this commitment can be made to the Title IX/EO Coordinator.

Complaints and Concerns

South Dakota State University’s primary objective is to assist students meet their academic goals through a positive and rigorous academic experience. In the case that a student has a concern, the university’s procedures should be followed to address these concerns and/or complaints. We strive to resolve these issues at the university level quickly and fairly.

Academic Concern and/or Complaint

Where minor concerns arise, we ask students to raise these concerns with the instructor or appropriate staff member with the goal of resolving the issue at this level. If the concern is not resolved at this level, we recommend visiting with the appropriate department head, school director, and dean as needed.

If a complaint cannot be handled through these channels, the students may address the concern/complaint formally through the Academic Affairs office.

Academic Affairs
South Dakota State University
Morrill Hall (SAD) 230
Brookings, SD 57007
Phone: 605-688-4173

Academic Appeals Policy

Non-Academic Concern and/or Complaint

South Dakota State University strives to provide a safe and secure environment of integrity for students, employees, program participants, and visitors. If your concern requires immediate assistance, please dial 911 or contact the University Police Department at 605-688-5117 (111 from any campus phone).

For non-emergency concerns or complaints, you may make an online report, or you may call the university’s toll-free hotline at 844-880-0004. The online report and hotline are provided through an electronic reporting system, and you may choose to remain anonymous when providing information. In addition to the electronic reporting system, you may make specific reports as set forth on the university’s Report It webpage.

State Regulatory Information

Any person may file a complaint with the Executive Director of the South Dakota Board of Regents to obtain a review and appropriate action on allegations that an institution governed by the Board:

• Violated South Dakota consumer protection laws.
• Engaged in fraud or false advertising.
• Violated South Dakota laws relating to the licensure of postsecondary institutions or programs.
• Failed to provide an educational program meeting contemporary standards for content and rigor.
• Failed to assign qualified instructors.
• Violated one or more accreditation requirements.

Where the institution has not already considered and acted upon the complaint, the Executive Director will refer the matter to the institutional president for review and action. If the complainant challenges an institutional disposition of the complaint, the Executive Director will provide for an independent review and disposition of the allegations. The Executive Director may be contacted at:

The Office of the Executive Director of the South Dakota Board of Regents
306 East Capitol Avenue, Suite 200
Pierre, SD 57501-2545
Phone: 605-773-3455

Consumer Protection

Allegations involving violation of consumer protection laws may also be filed with:

Office of Attorney General
Division of Consumer Protection
1302 E Hwy 14 Ste 3
Pierre, SD 57501
Phone: 605-773-4400, 1-800-300-1986 (in-state only)
Fax: 605-773-7163
Email: consumerhelp@state.sd.us
Web: online complaint form

Out-of-State Distance Education Students

Pursuant to the United States Department of Education’s Program Integrity Rule, South Dakota State University is required to provide all prospective and current students with the contact information of the state agency or agencies that handle complaints against postsecondary education institutions offering distance learning or correspondence education within that state.

For students residing in a SARA state, the complaint must be brought to the institution’s home state SARA portal entity. Students may submit complaints to the SD-SARA Portal Entity.

For students in California, please contact the appropriate entity listed below.

• California Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education - Filing a Complaint

SDSU’s Accreditor Complaint Procedure

SDSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an independent corporation that was founded in 1895 as one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. SDSU’s institutional accreditation information is available along with program specific accreditation.

Information regarding filing a complaint with the Higher Learning Commission.

Courses/Credits

Auditing a Course

Registration as an auditor in a course may be permitted. No credit is given. The audit fee is the established tuition and fee rate. Registration for audit may be accomplished only after registration day by presenting an Audit/Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory form to the Registrar’s Office, Enrollment Services Center.

Auditing courses by graduate and undergraduate students will be a matter of record (recorded on their academic transcript). An AU grade is given for Audit. This grade does not calculate into the semester or cumulative grade point average. Audit courses are counted as part of the 19 hour rule for overloads. Audit courses are not counted in calculating undergraduate or graduate full-time student status.

Course Application to Multiple Requirements

A course may be used to fulfill one or more degree requirements, but the number of credits is counted once.  For example, a student who completes SOC 100 to fulfill General Education and a major requirement earns a total of 3 credits. 

Course Exemption

Students may be awarded an exemption from taking a course but not receive college credit. This may result from the SDSU policy related to a specific test or credit received by examination from another institution.

Credits

(SDBOR Policy 2.4.3)

A credit hour is a unit by which an institution measures its coursework. Federal Law permits an institution to determine the amount of work associated with a credit hour, to consider a variety of delivery methods, instructional methods, measurements of student work, educational experience, outside classroom activity/preparation, disciplines, and degree levels. SDBOR Policy 2.1.1 shall provide governance on the required calendar ensuring instructional time is established to meet credit hour and contact hour requirements. Credit hours are used to convey the length of a program of study.

For example, a lecture course with readings or other out-of-class preparation would result in one credit for each class hour scheduled per week for a semester while a laboratory experience with little out-of-class preparation may equal one credit for three hours scheduled per week of a semester. Independent courses vary in credit according to the nature of the work involved.

Electives

Electives are offered so students may develop special talents or interests. The choice of subjects is left to the student, provided the selections made are consistent with the academic standards of the university. Electives used to meet the general education core degree requirements must be chosen from the approved list.

Repeated Courses

(SDBOR Policy 2.4.2, Section 3.4)

All courses taken appear on the student’s academic record, but when a course is repeated, only the most recent grade is calculated into the cumulative GPA and applied to degree requirements. This policy applies to both undergraduate and graduate coursework. Relative to number of repeats allowed:

• A student may enroll in an undergraduate course (for which credit is granted only once) no more than three times without permission of the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
• A student may enroll in a graduate course (for which credit is granted only once) no more than two times without permission of the Graduate School.
• A student will be allowed unlimited enrollments in an undergraduate or graduate course for which credit toward graduation may be received more than once. An institution may limit the number of credit hours for courses that may be taken more than once that apply toward the requirements for a major.

Please notify the Registrar’s Office, Enrollment Services Center, when a course, whether failed or passed, is repeated.

Schedule Adjustments

Drop/Add Period

The drop/add period is the time period during which students may adjust their academic schedule for the term without financial or academic consequences. The last day of the drop/add period for a course is designated as the census date for that course and is the official date for enrollment reporting. The end of the drop and add period for standard and non-standard courses offered in a semester shall be the date the first 10 percent of the term ends or the day following the first class meeting, whichever is later. When calculating 10% of the term, breaks of five or more days are not included when counting the total number of days but Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays are. Student registrations can only be added to courses after the end of the drop and add period by approval of the chief academic officer (or designee) of the university. 

Last Day to Drop 

For standard classes, the last day to receive a grade of “W” is determined by calculating 70 percent of the class meeting days in the term, counting from the first day of classes in the term and rounding up if the calculation produces a fractional value greater than or equal to 0.5. 

For any non-standard course, the last day to receive a grade of “W” is based on the number of class meeting days for the course, using the method described above. 

Similar proportional dates would be established by the Registrar’s Office for summer, interim and other courses taught outside of the normal nine-month academic year. 

Students may not drop a course or withdraw from the System after the time period specified above.  

If extenuating circumstances (i.e., illness) have prevented class participation, a petition for an individual drop may be filed. 

Add/Drop Procedures 

Dropping or adding courses should be discussed with one’s academic advisor. Courses can be dropped on Self-Service or in the Registrar’s Office. 

Students should not discontinue enrollment in a class without processing discontinuance via the official drop procedure. An “F” or “U” will be recorded for an unofficial drop. 

Grades for Dropped Courses

Undergraduate and graduate students who drop a course shall receive a withdrawal grade if that action occurs anytime between the day after the census day for that course and the day that corresponds with the completion of 70 percent of the class days for that course.  

Beginning with the Fall 2015 term, a grade of withdrawal (WD) may be assigned only six times during a student’s undergraduate career. If the student drops additional classes, a grade of WFL will be assigned. Withdrawal grades assigned to continuously enrolled students prior to this term will not count against the limit. Additionally, those withdrawal grades assigned at a non-Regental institution prior to entry as a transfer student will not be counted against the six course limits. This limit does not include W grades assigned if a student withdraws from all classes in a given term, which will be assigned a WW grade. The campus Chief Academic Affairs Officer may make exceptions to this requirement in those cases where there are unique factors. (Refer to SDBOR Policy 2.8.1)

Transferring Credits

(SDBOR Policy 2.2.2.1, SDBOR Policy 2.2.2.2, SDBOR Policy 2.2.2.3, SDBOR Policy 2.2.2.4)

Academic courses transfer as meeting graduation requirements if the courses parallel the scope, depth and academic rigor to satisfy requirements for the degree or if the courses meet electives for the degree. 

SDSU has partnered with technical institutes, community colleges, and other universities to ensure a smooth transition to transfer credit. Access the Transfer Agreements webpage to view transfer and articulated program-to-program agreements.

An unofficial evaluation of transfer credit can be obtained using the transfer credit evaluation tool, Transferology.

An official evaluation of transfer credit will be completed following a student’s admission to the university and reception of all final, official transcripts.

For more information, contact the SDSU Transfer Services Coordinators, Registrar’s Office in the Enrollment Services Center.

Undergraduate Students Taking Graduate Courses

(SDSU Policy 2:22, SDBOR Policy 2.4.2)

Undergraduate students who have completed a minimum of 90 credit hours may request to enroll in 500- and 600-level courses. Students will pay graduate tuition and the courses will be recorded on a graduate transcript. A maximum of 12 graduate credits may apply to an undergraduate degree. SDSU Policy 2:22 Use of Graduate Credit for Undergraduate Degree Requirements designates standards concerning the use of graduate credit to fulfill undergraduate degree requirements as allowed by SDBOR Policy 2.4.2.

Credit for Prior Learning

(SDBOR Policy 2.2.2.5)

Students who have studied a subject independently or have completed college level coursework for which they are unable to get a transcript acceptable to this institution may receive credit through a variety of evaluation processes. For information about credit through any of these processes contact the Testing Center.

South Dakota State University cannot guarantee that credit earned via validation at SDSU will transfer to other institutions. Even though SDSU has made an effort to set cut off scores at appropriate levels, each institution develops its own procedures for accepting credit by validation. In some cases, a certain test or score level acceptable at SDSU may not qualify a student for credit at another institution.

Credit by Exam

If credit by examination is accepted, the permanent record will show the course name and a grade of CR for the specified number of credits. No entry will be made on the record if the examination is failed. The examination results will not be included in calculation of either the semester or the cumulative grade point averages.

Advanced Placement Program (AP)

The Advanced Placement (AP) Examination is given at the high school level. Usually a student completes an AP course in high school then takes the AP test at the end of the course. Students receiving an AP examination score that meets the SDBOR score guidelines, receive credit for equivalent college courses on their SDSU transcript.

All South Dakota state institutions are required to accept the same examinations and scores set by the South Dakota Board of Regents. 

A student’s AP score reports are sent to SDSU when the student places SDSU’s school code (6653) on their test registration application. If the student’s score report was not sent to SDSU at the time of testing, the student will need to order a report from College Board and have it sent to SDSU for recording. SDSU only accepts official score reports for awarding prior learning credit. If the student successfully completes the examination, the permanent record will show “Credit by Examination” with a grade of “CR”. No entry will be made on a permanent record if the examination is failed.

Although Regental institutions accept AP credits, there are many professional schools throughout the country that do not accept AP to satisfy the prerequisite requirements for admission to their program. Due to these varying degrees of value placed on AP courses by professional programs throughout the country, and in order to not unfairly limit students’ options upon graduation, it is advised that students seek guidance on this matter from the professional programs to which they intend to apply as well as seek the counsel of their academic advisor.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

The College Board’s College Level Examination Program (CLEP) provides an opportunity to earn college credit for college level achievements without the benefit of transcribed college credit or to validate coursework or experience otherwise not acceptable as transfer. College credit is awarded for satisfactory performance on the CLEP subject examinations per the South Dakota Board of Regents policy. South Dakota Board of Regents policy on specific courses for which credit is given and other requirements can be found on the website. 

SDSU will only receive a copy of a student’s CLEP scores if South Dakota State University (6653) is chosen as a score recipient. If the student successfully completes the examination, the student must complete the Request for Transcription of Credit form that can be found on the Testing Center’s website in order to have the credits placed on their academic transcript. The permanent record will show “Credit by Examination” with a grade of “CR”. No entry will be made on a permanent record if the examination is failed. Credit by validation can be used to repeat a prior course if the student had earned an unsatisfactory grade in the initial attempt. Meeting the qualifying score for the credit by validation examination is used to establish proficiency for the course, and the “CR” grade will still be applied with the earned grade from the initial attempt still calculated in the student’s cumulative grade point average.

CLEP tests may be retaken only following a lapse of three months. For information about taking a CLEP exam or having CLEP credits placed upon your transcript, visit the Testing Center’s website.

DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST)

The Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) is a program that assists Service members and Veterans pursue their educational goals. This program pays College Board for CLEP exams that are administered at the SDSU Testing Center.  A military ID is required when using this benefit. The DSST is an extensive series of examinations in college subject areas that are comparable to the final or end-of-course examinations in undergraduate courses. DANTES funds DSST testing for eligible Service members; furthermore, civilian examinees may also take these exams at their own cost at Prometric Test Centers. South Dakota Board of Regents policy on specific courses for which credit is given and other DANTES program information can be found on the Testing Center’s website. If the student successfully completes the examination, the student must complete the Request for Transcription of Credit form found on the Testing Center’s website in order to have the credits placed on their academic transcript. The permanent record will show “Credit by Examination” with a grade of “CR”. No entry will be made on a permanent record if the examination is failed.

Institutional Challenge by Examination

If a nationally recognized examination is not available to award credit for a course, a special examination may be established. This process is initiated by obtaining a Challenge by Examination DocuSign form from the Testing Center after consulting with the following people:

1. Consult the department head/school director in which the course is offered. The department head/school director will conduct a preliminary evaluation of a student’s learning experience to determine if an examination is warranted. 
2. Consult with your advisor. 
3. Consult the dean of the college in which a degree is expected to determine whether credits earned by Challenge by Examination in the proposed subject will be accepted. 
4. Contact the Testing Center to initiate the Challenge by Examination form. 
   1. The department head/school director’s signature indicates that, based upon review of the student’s prior learning experience, administration of the exam is justified.
   2. Your advisor’s signature acknowledges the student is attempting the Challenge by Exam to demonstrate proficiency in a college-level course.
   3. The college dean’s signature acknowledges the exam is acceptable.
5. Once all signatures have been obtained register for an exam appointment and pay the applicable fee via RegisterBlast.
6. Take the exam.
7. You will receive a score at the completion of the exam. If the cutoff score is achieved, credit will be placed on your transcript with a CR (satisfactory) grade in two to three weeks.
8. If the exam is failed, a department representative will notify the student and no entry will be made on the student’s record.
9. A copy of the documentation will be kept in the Testing Center.

Policy for Repeating Local Challenge Examinations

If a student does not pass the local challenge examination, he or she may use the SDSU petition procedure to request one more opportunity to take a challenge examination for the same course. The guidelines for the retesting process are as follows:

1. Only one retest is allowed.
2. There will be a waiting period of one academic term before retesting may be done.
3. The department will administer a test that is completely different from the examination used in the original challenge attempt.
4. The petition must be approved by the department head/school director, dean, and Testing Center.
5. If the petition is approved, the student must complete a new “Challenge by Examination” form and pay the examination fee before retesting may be done.

Credit by Portfolio

A “portfolio” may be used to document competencies learned through non-transferable courses from other institutions if a grade of C or better was earned. A portfolio may also be used to verify skills learned through prior work experience. A portfolio is a detailed, written document prepared by a student to demonstrate knowledge and skills. A portfolio may contain both prior coursework and employment experiences relevant to the course being challenged. Review the guidelines and obtain “A Challenge by Portfolio” application through the Testing Center. A description of the portfolio process can be found on the Testing Center’s website. Students will need to receive departmental approval and pay a fee prior to portfolio review. If credit is to be awarded, the designation on the academic record shall be CR to signify credit by examination of portfolio.

Modern Language Credit

There are several options for students to earn credit for prior language study. They are as follows:

WebCape Placement Exam

Students with prior knowledge of a modern language must take courses commensurate with their abilities. If you have studied French, German, Lakota, or Spanish in high school or at another college/university and wish to continue your language studies at SDSU, you can save yourself time and money by starting with a higher-level course. To determine your placement, the School of American and Global Studies administers the WebCAPE placement exam in French, German, and Spanish. For Lakota, there is an individualized exam offered by the program. Both exams are free to SDSU students.

Modern Language Buy Down

Once you have received your placement score, you can register for the appropriate course, pass it with a grade of “C” or better, and purchase credit for the prior courses (maximum total of 14 credits). For example, a student who tests into, and successfully completes, GER 310 would be able to purchase GER 101 (4 cr.), 102 (4 cr.), 201 (3 cr.) and 202 (3 cr.) for a course recording fee. That is a total of 14 language credits (4 courses) in exchange for taking GER 310.

Please note, the intermediate conversation courses in Spanish (SPAN 211 and SPAN 250) cannot be used to obtain credit for previous study. You must take a lower-level grammar course (102, 201, 202) or an appropriate 300- or 400-level content course to purchase SPAN 101-202 credits.

Students must apply for this credit by filling out the Request for Transcription of Credit form found on the Testing Center’s website.  A recording fee is charged for each lower-level course.

Advanced Placement Program (AP)

The Advanced Placement (AP) Examination is given at the high school level. Usually, a student completes an AP course in high school and then takes the AP test at the end of the course. Students receiving an AP examination score that meets the Board of Regents guidelines may apply for credit to be transcribed.

All South Dakota state institutions are required to accept the same examinations and scores set by the South Dakota Board of Regents. Please visit the Testing Center’s website for additional AP information.

A student’s AP score reports are sent to SDSU when the student places SDSU’s school code (6653) on their test registration application. AP credits will automatically be applied to the transcript if the student’s score report was sent to SDSU.  If the student successfully completes the examination, the permanent record will show “Credit by Examination” with a grade of “CR”. No entry will be made on a permanent record if the examination is failed.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

CLEP exams are national tests that can be taken at any CLEP-certified testing center, nationwide. SDSU has been designated as a national testing center for CLEP. SDSU will only receive a copy of a student’s CLEP scores if South Dakota State University (6653) is chosen as a score recipient.

Currently, SDSU offers the CLEP exam in French, German, and Spanish. Any student who speaks or has studied these languages is eligible for CLEP. As per SDBOR policy, the maximum credit hours allowable for FREN, GER, and SPAN 202 equivalency are 14 credits in each language. Scores are shown on the computer screen after the completion of the exam. If a passing score is achieved, the student must complete the Request for Transcription of Credit form on the Testing Center’s website in order to have the credits placed on their academic transcript.

Language Testing International Exams (LTI)

LTI testing is available in a larger number of languages than CLEP offers. Students who speak or have studied a modern language other than French, German, or Spanish may take the LTI written and oral examinations, and then petition to have that study satisfy both the modern language requirement for the B.A. degree and SGR #4 (Arts and Humanities).

The School of American and Global Studies administers Language Testing International (LTI) written and oral examinations to current SDSU students. LTI is exclusively licensed by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL). Credit may be earned through LTI testing for 101, 102, 201, and 202.

The exams, which test your skills on the coursework for which you would like to gain credit, are computer-based and telephone-based where applicable. The following exams are offered:

1. Oral Proficiency Interview by Computer (OPIc) - The OPIc is a 20–40-minute interview-like, computer-based assessment. The exam is designed to elicit a sample of speech via recorded, computer-adapted voice prompts customized to the individual test taker.
2. Internet Writing Proficiency Test (iWPT®) - The iWPT is an 80-minute standardized exam for the global assessment of functional writing ability in a language. The exam measures how well a person spontaneously writes in a language (without access to dictionaries or grammar references). The exam consists of four requests for written responses that deal with practical, social, and professional topics encountered in informal and formal contexts.

Please contact the School of American and Global Studies (Lincoln Hall 132, 605-688-5101) for a complete list of languages available.

If a passing score is achieved, the student pays a course recording fee and completes the Request for Transcription of Credit form on the Testing Center’s website in order to have the credits placed on their academic transcript.

Seal of Biliteracy

The South Dakota Board of Regents has approved the awarding of postsecondary credit for students who demonstrate biliteracy proficiency through the Seal of Biliteracy program. Students must present official documentation of earning the Silver Seal of Biliteracy or higher. Requirements and course equivalencies are available online in published Regental guides.

Additional Prior Learning Credit Options

South Dakota State University awards prior learning credit for other courses/exams including International Baccalaureate and Cambridge International AS and A Levels. Students who have completed certain certifications and training may also be eligible for prior learning credit. Please visit the Testing Center website for more information.

Study Abroad Transfer Credits

Students who plan to study abroad with the intent of transferring the credits earned to SDSU must receive written permission to do so from the School of American and Global Studies before undertaking such study. Approved language courses transferred from foreign institutions will be accepted as credits without a grade, unless it is otherwise agreed with the student prior to departure. The university does not accept credit from all foreign institutes. Students who take courses abroad without prior permission from the School of American and Global Studies may not receive SDSU credit for these courses.

Please contact the School of American and Global Studies (Lincoln Hall 132, 605-688-5101) for additional information regarding placement and credit for prior learning.

Cross-Curricular Skills

(SDBOR Academic Affairs Guidelines 2.3.7.D)

Cross-curricular skills are broad, transferable abilities—such as critical thinking, teamwork, and ethical reasoning—that help institutions intentionally integrate and extend general education learning across students’ academic programs. These skills are developed throughout multiple courses and disciplines to support success in academics, careers, and life beyond college. They also serve to connect general education with major coursework in ways that reflect each institution’s mission, values, and accreditation standards. In alignment with the AAC&U Essential Learning Outcomes, the South Dakota Board of Regents requires each university program to select and assess at least three to five of the following skills as part of their program-level student learning outcomes:

• 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
• Access and Opportunity

Degree Planning

Certificates

A certificate can be earned independently or in conjunction with a degree. Certificates awarded in conjunction with a degree must be completed under the same catalog as the degree requirements. Non-degree seeking students can apply for admission under a certificate program. Degree seeking students can declare a certificate by contacting the college offering the certificate.

Changing a Major

Students who wish to change their major should consider meeting with an academic advisor prior to initiating the change to ensure the proposed major meets the students’ academic and professional goals. Major changes can be initiated at the college dean’s office or an academic advisor. 

Declaring a Minor

Undergraduate minor requirements typically consist of 18 semester credit hours with a minimum of 50% of the credit hours completed at the institution granting the minor. Degree seeking students may complete requirements for a minor at any Regental university that has been approved to grant that minor. The Regental university offering the minor approves completion of minor requirements. The requirements for the minor must be completed under the same catalog as the degree requirements. Students declare their SDSU minor on MyState. Students declaring a minor at another Regental university should contact the Registrar’s Office at the university offering the minor.

Minors are only awarded in conjunction with completion of a degree program and the awarding of a bachelor’s degree. Completion of the minor shall be indicated on the student’s academic transcript.

Registration

Students are assigned a registration time ticket, indicating a registration date and time. Students can register any time after their priority date and time but not before. 

Students should attend an advising session prior to registering for classes. A registration restriction is placed on undergraduate students which the advisor will remove after the advising session.

Students register for classes on Registration Self Service. SDSU offers multi-term registration where students can register for classes a full year in advance. Students who register and subsequently decide not to attend should notify the Registrar’s Office so the classes will be dropped and the student will not be billed for the courses.

Financial obligations, minimum academic requirements, immunization requirements or other conditions may result in a restriction that prohibits a student from registering for classes. Students should refer to MyState or Registration Self Service to determine if they have a restriction which will prohibit registration. To determine if a course requires instructor permission or if other minimum requirements must be met, consult Self Service Browse Classes. 

Dual and Multiple Degrees and Secondary Majors

(SDBOR Academic Affairs Guidelines 2.3.2.1.A(1))

Students may pursue separate undergraduate majors or degrees at the same time or have multiple majors or degrees conferred in different terms. Students utilizing financial aid should consult with the Financial Aid Office at their institution before deciding to pursue multiple majors, simultaneous degrees, or multiple degrees or when deciding to graduate before all degree requirements for multiple degrees or minors have been met to carefully assess the impact on their eligibility for financial aid.

Multiple Majors

• The student must meet all admission requirements (e.g., minimum GPA) for each declared major.
• The requirements for all declared majors must be completed under the same academic catalog.
• The student must complete all general education and program requirements for each declared major.
• Students must meet all academic requirements (e.g., minimum grade requirements) for each declared major.
• Limitations and prohibitions:
  • Students who declare more than one specialization within a major are classified as pursuing a single major with multiple specializations, but do not qualify as pursuing multiple majors.
• Course overlap is allowed between declared multiple majors. However, a minimum of twelve (12) credits required for the Major (not including general education, general elective, or other non-Major-specific credits) must be exclusive to each declared Major and may not have course overlap. If the published coursework for the Majors cannot be completed in a manner that allows for 12 distinct credits between them, they are not eligible to be pursued as Multiple Majors.
  • General education and other curriculum requirements may be applied as general electives and/or a requirement for an additional major.
  • Required courses from one Major may be applied as general electives, support courses, or general education requirements for the other declared Major(s).
  • The requirement to have 12 distinct credits does not apply to Secondary Education majors paired with the appropriate disciplinary major (e.g., Secondary Education in English with a BA in English major).
  • Additional course overlap is allowed between declared multiple majors specific to the university and programs within the college/school. Institutions must outline these in their academic catalog.
• All awarded Majors will appear on the student’s transcript. One degree and one diploma are issued.
• A student who earned a baccalaureate degree from a regental university may subsequently complete requirements for a second major attached to the original degree. This work, which represents an extension of the original degree, must be completed at the regental university which conferred the baccalaureate degree.
  • The student must meet admission requirements and complete all academic requirements for the additional major.
  • The general education curriculum is considered completed by the original degree.
  • No degree is conferred; therefore, graduation honors do not apply, and no diploma is given.

Simultaneous Degrees

Simultaneous degrees are two or more degrees that are completed and awarded in the same semester and can be of either the same type (BS in Agricultural Business and BS in Accounting) or of different types (BS in Human Biology and BA in Spanish).

Same Degree Type

• This section covers when a student pursues degrees with the same degree type (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Biology and Bachelor of Science in Health Studies).
• The student must meet all admission requirements (e.g. minimum GPA) for each declared program (degree and major).
• All requirements must be met for each declared degree.
• The requirements for all declared degrees must be completed under the same academic catalog.
• The student must complete all general education and program requirements for each declared degree.
• The student must meet all academic requirements (e.g., minimum grade requirements) for each declared degree.
• Course overlap is allowed between declared Simultaneous Degrees of the same type. However, a minimum of twelve (12) degree-specific credits (not including general education, support courses, elective, and other non-degree-specific credits) must be exclusive to each declared degree and may not have course overlap.
  • Required courses from one degree may be applied as general electives (lower- or upper-division), general education, or support courses required for the other declared degree.
  • Additional course overlap is allowed between degrees specific to the university and programs within the college/school. Institutions must outline these in their academic catalog.
  • Individual colleges and schools within an institution may place additional restrictions on course overlap and awarding of simultaneous degrees of the same degree type. Institutions must outline these in their academic catalog.
• Students must file separate graduation applications for each degree.
• All degrees will appear on the student’s transcript and a separate diploma is issued for each.

Different Degree Types

• This section covers when a student pursues degrees with different degree types (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish).
• The student must meet all admission requirements (e.g., minimum GPA) for each declared program.
• All requirements must be met for each declared degree.
• The requirements for all declared degrees must be completed under the same academic catalog.
• The student must complete all general education and program requirements for each declared degree.
• The student must meet all academic requirements (e.g., minimum grade requirements) for each declared degree.
• Course overlap is allowed between declared Simultaneous Degrees of different type. However, a minimum of twelve (12) degree-specific credits (not including general education, support courses, elective, and other non-degree-specific credits) must be exclusive to each declared degree and may not have course overlap.
  • Required courses from one degree may be applied as general electives (lower- or upper-division), general education, or support courses required for the other declared degree.
  • Additional course overlap is allowed between degrees specific to the university and programs within the college/school. Institutions must outline these in their academic catalog.
• Students must file separate graduation applications for each.
• All degrees will appear on the student’s transcript and a separate diploma is issues for each.

Multiple Degrees (Conferred on a Later Graduation Date)

Multiple Degrees are held to the same requirements as Simultaneous Degrees; however, the degrees are completed in different semesters.

After Previous Baccalaureate Degree at the Same Institution

• Students may return after graduation but must reapply.
• The student will be held to all school/college, major, and graduation requirements for additional baccalaureate degree in the catalog in which they are readmitted.
• The degree will appear on the student’s transcript, a diploma will be issued, and the student is a candidate for honors.

After Previous Baccalaureate Degree within the Regental System

• Students may return immediately after graduation but must apply to the new institution.
• The student will be held to all school/college, major, and graduation requirements for the catalog year in which they are readmitted.
• If the student has not met residency, the student must complete thirty (30) credits in residence for the additional baccalaureate degree.
• At least 50% of the coursework comprising the major must be earned at the regental institution conferring the additional degree.
• There must be a minimum of 12 unique credits toward each degree to qualify for awarding multiple degrees. Other course overlap is allowed between declared degrees specific to the university and programs within the college/school. Institutions must outline these in their academic catalog.
• The degree will appear on the student’s transcript. A diploma will be issued, and a student is a candidate for graduation honors.
• Students utilizing financial aid should consult with the Financial Aid Office at their institution before deciding to pursue multiple degrees to carefully assess the impact on their eligibility for financial aid.

After Previous Baccalaureate Degree from Outside the Regental System

• A student who has earned a baccalaureate degree from a non-regental, accredited college or university, the following requirements for an additional baccalaureate degree:
  • The student must meet all admission requirements for the university and declared program.
  • General education requirements completed for the previous degree will satisfy the general education requirements for the additional baccalaureate degree, except for any general education requirements specific to the new degree program.
  • The student must complete thirty (30) credits in residence for the additional baccalaureate degree.
  • At least 50% of the coursework comprising the major must be earned at the regental institution conferring the additional degree.
  • There must be a minimum of 12 unique credits toward each degree to qualify for awarding multiple degrees. Other course overlap is allowed between declared degrees specific to the University and programs within the college/school. Institutions must outline these in their academic catalog.
  • The degree will appear in the student’s transcript, a diploma will be issued, and the student is a candidate for honors. 

Declaring Three or More Majors or Degrees

Students wishing to pursue three (3) or more Majors or degrees, or four (4) or more of any combination of Majors, degrees, or Minors, must consult with their Academic Advisor and follow the review and approval process in place at their institution.

Additional Limitations

Students may not pursue a major in a discipline and a major with a specialization in the same discipline (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Data Science and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a Specialization in Data Science).

Students may not pursue a major in a discipline and a minor in the same discipline (e.g., Major in Chemistry with a minor in Chemistry).

Equal Access and Opportunity, Non-Discrimination, and Title IX

(SDSU Policy 4:3, SDSU Policy 4:4, SDSU Policy 4:5, SDSU Policy 4:6, SDBOR Policy 1.4.1, SDBOR Policy 1.4.2, SDBOR Policy 1.4.3, SDBOR Policy 1.4.4)

South Dakota State University has a well-established commitment to maintaining a campus environment free from discrimination and harassment, as articulated by federal and state law, and university policy.

Equal Access and Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy

Equal Access and Opportunity

The institutions under the jurisdiction of the Board of Regents shall offer equal opportunities in employment and for access to and participation in educational, extension and other institutional services to all persons qualified by academic preparation, experience, and ability for the various levels of employment or academic program or other institutional services. The Board of Regents will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on or related to a person’s race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, disability, national origin, or any other legally protected category, class, or characteristic recognized under applicable law.

Non-Discrimination

The Board reaffirms its commitment to non-discrimination and providing equal access and opportunity in accordance with state and federal law. Redress for alleged violations of those laws may be pursued at law or through the procedures established by the provisions of SDBOR Policy 1.4.3 (see also SDSU Policy 4:6).

Responsibilities of Chief Executive Officers

The chief executive officers of the respective institutions shall be responsible for assuring that the Board’s equal access and opportunity policies are communicated effectively to members of the institutional community and the public at large. Pursuant to BOR Policy 1.4.3, each institution will designate an EEO coordinator to monitor compliance with federal, state, or local laws and regulations.

The University offers equal opportunities in employment and for access to and participation in education, extension, and other services at the university to all persons qualified by academic preparation, experience, and ability for the various levels of employment or academic program or other university service. The University will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on or related to a person’s race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, disability, national origin, or any other legally protected category, class, or characteristic recognized under applicable law.

SDSU, in conjunction with state and federal law and applicable SDBOR and university policies, is committed to the objectives of equal access and opportunity and nondiscrimination. Redress for alleged violations of those laws may be pursued at law, or through the procedures established in SDSU Policy 4:4 or SDSU Policy 4:6 through the university Title IX/EO Coordinator.

Michelle Johnson, Ed.D., Title IX/EO Coordinator
South Dakota State University
Human Resources, Morrill Hall Room 100
Brookings, SD 57007
605-688-4128

Harassment Policy

Harassment is a particularly harmful and illegal form of discrimination that breaks down trust within the SDSU community and impedes the ability of students, employees, and others to participate in an environment that allows them to achieve their fullest potential. Furthermore, harassment is a violation of the expectation that every individual at SDSU deserves to be treated fairly, with respect for their dignity as a person. Harassment consists of unwelcomed conduct (based on a protected category) that is severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive to the degree that denies a person’s ability to participate in or realize the benefits of a University activity or resource.

Hazing and Sexual Harassment Policy

State and federal laws and policies strictly prohibit hazing and sexual harassment, including sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. Such misconduct is not permitted or tolerated at SDSU or during university-sponsored events or activities. SDSU Policy 4:4 and SDSU Policy 4:5 set forth standards regarding reports of hazing or sexual harassment and the consequences of engaging in such misconduct at the university.

Non-Retaliation/Privacy

Complainants, respondents, witnesses, and other persons who have assisted, testified, or participated in any manner in any phase of a harassment or discrimination investigation will be protected against retaliation. SDSU’s policy and applicable Board of Regents, state and federal regulations prohibit retaliation, coercion, harassment, interference and/or intimidation, or any other adverse action taken as a direct result of a complaint being brought forth.

All concerns are responded to and/or investigated in a highly sensitive manner. The privacy of the parties involved is protected. The process is neutral, impartial and fair.

What You Can Do To Address Harassment or Discrimination

• If safe, approach the person you feel has discriminated against or has harassed you and communicate your concern directly, in person or in writing. Ask them to stop the concerning behavior or comments immediately.
• Report harassment or discrimination to the Title IX/EO Coordinator (605-688-4128).

Reporting Complaints

Concerns should be reported directly to the Title IX/EO Coordinator.

Michelle Johnson, Ed.D., Title IX/EO Coordinator
Human Resources, Morrill Hall Room 100
Brookings, SD 57007
605-688-4128

SDSU has adopted a Compliance Hotline that offers two additional ways to report concerns, including the option to report anonymously, call 1-844-880-0004 or visit the web reporting website. If a student or employee alleges harassment or discrimination, please encourage them to report the issue or you can report on their behalf. SDSU has a legal obligation to respond to all allegations, and requests that all concerns be brought forth. SDSU has many resources and wants to support the entire university community.

The complaint process is subject to the SDSU policies listed below:

• SDSU Policy 4:3 Equal Access and Opportunity and Non-Discrimination
• SDSU Policy 4:4 Sexual Harassment
• SDSU Policy 4:5 Prevention of Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking, and Hazing
• SDSU Policy 4:6 Human Rights Complaints

What happens if a violation of the policy occurs?

The university will not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or retaliation that violates SDBOR or university policy. Where such violations are investigated and found to have indeed occurred, the university will take steps to end it immediately. An individual found to have engaged in discrimination, harassment, or retaliation will be subject to appropriate discipline, depending on the severity of the misconduct. Sanctions for employees include but are not limited to formal reprimands, suspensions without pay, reductions in responsibilities, and termination. Sanctions for students include but are not limited to disciplinary probation, suspension, and expulsion. SDSU will provide all involved parties with supportive measures to alleviate the negative effects of the harassment or discrimination allegations. Such measures may be academic, residential, employment, financial and/or transportation in nature.

For More Information

For more information on the policies established to promote equal opportunity and eliminate discrimination and harassment at SDSU visit the website.

Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974

(SDSU Policy 3:2, SDBOR Policy 3.3.1, SDBOR Policy 3.3.2)

FERPA Rights

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords eligible students certain rights with respect to their education records. (An “eligible student” under FERPA is a student who is 18 years of age or older or who attends a postsecondary institution at any age.) These rights include:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the university receives a request for access. A student should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department or other appropriate official a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The university official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the university official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. A student who wishes to ask the university to amend a record should write the university official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed and specify why it should be changed. If the university decides not to amend the record as requested, the university will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Procedures will be maintained by the Registrar’s Office. Academic challenges related to grades must be processed through SDSU Policy 2:4
3. The right to provide written consent before the university discloses personally identifiable information from the student’s education records, except to the extent that the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act authorizes disclosure without consent. The university discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the university in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the university has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using university employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for the university.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the university to comply with the requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, the student may also attempt to resolve the issue through the Registrar’s Office. The Student Privacy Policy Office administers the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

Directory Information

The Federal Privacy Act (FERPA) defines some information as Directory Information. SDSU allows the release of the following Directory Information concerning a student upon request, without the consent of the student.

Final Examinations

(SDSU Policy 2:1)

Policy

• Among the tasks of instruction is that of evaluation of a student’s performance. Each course has its own particular parameters, and the evaluation procedure in any one course is not necessarily the same as that in another course. However, the most commonly used evaluation technique is that of written examinations or papers periodically due during the course, and a final examination at the end of the course. The final examination procedure has become so universal and accepted that a final examination period is set aside at the end of the semester in most colleges and universities. The Carnegie credit hour is calculated by contact hours with 15 contact hours equating to one (1) credit hour. Finals week is considered an integral part of the 17- week academic semester and critical to the credit hour calculation.
• It is the policy of the University to adhere to the following:
  • The final examination schedule will be posted. Courses offered for two (2) or more credits will have an examination time determined by the final examination schedule.
  • Multiple section final examinations will be scheduled at 7:00 a.m. through a request process from the instructor to the Registrar’s office.
  • Final exams for evening courses (any course that begins at 5:00 p.m. or later) must be scheduled at the regularly scheduled time (of the course) during finals week.
  • Courses of one (1) credit or laboratory only will have the final examination or alternative learning experience during the last week of regular classes before final examination week.
  • Every course, except as noted in sections ii, iii, and iv above, is required to follow the final examination schedule.
  • Five (5) days are to be scheduled for final examinations at the end of each semester, fall and spring. Due to the variety of summer sessions and part of term courses, the final day of the summer term will be reserved for the final examination.
  • A block of two (2) hours will be available for administering individual final examinations. Within the final examination time period, instructors may reduce the time limit of an examination by prior announcement.
  • Final examinations are an integral part of the instructional program and should be given in almost all courses. Specific course types may utilize an alternative learning experience instead of a final examination; this includes capstone courses, seminars, colloquia, independent study, clinical courses, and internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Faculty teaching these courses must still provide a meaningful final assessment appropriate to the course structure and learning objectives. The discipline is responsible for defining appropriate alternative learning experiences. Use of an alternative learning experience does not preclude the requirement to hold class during the final examination week. Any additional exceptions must be approved in advance by the department head/school director and college dean.
  • Take home final examinations are permissible but the course must still meet during final examination week for an alternative learning experience. Faculty using online examinations in face-to-face courses must administer the exam according to the final examination schedule.
  • Online and hybrid courses must be held to the same standard for final examinations and can only be administered during final examination week. Online asynchronous courses may not require students to take an in-classroom or synchronous final examination.
  • If a final examination is used, it should not be given early. The published final examination schedule must be followed and the final examination in a course should be given as scheduled and not at other times, even if the faculty member and all students in a course agree to such a change. This is true even if the final examination is an alternative learning experience. It is understood that some culminating learning assessment may be administered during the last week of classes. This does not preclude the requirement however, for these classes to meet during finals week.
  • The week of classes preceding the scheduled final examination period should be used primarily for continued instruction and may include the introduction of new material. No final examinations are to be given during the seven (7) days preceding the start of the examination period (excluding one (1) credit courses). However, laboratory practicums, seminar presentations, etc. may be scheduled in that week.
  • Individual students may petition in writing for a variance from these policies, provided the instructor is satisfied that the exception is based on good and sufficient reasons, and that such an exception for an early or late examination will not prejudice the interests of other students in the course. Reasons for individual students missing a scheduled examination will be handled by the department. Each department will decide what will, or will not, be an acceptable excuse and deal with individual hardship cases. In the event of a department approved excuse, the instructor will decide the procedure necessary to complete the course requirement. Instructors must have the consent of the department head or school director in excusing the student. Note that following the Class Attendance Policy university excused absences for trips or activities will not be approved during finals week.
  • When students have four (4) or more final examinations on the same day, they are entitled to arrange an alternative examination time for an examination or examinations scheduled on that day. Such arrangements must be made no later than the end of the 12th week of the semester. Students are expected to provide evidence to the Registrar’s Office that they have four (4) or more examinations to qualify for exceptions.
• This policy applies to all undergraduate and graduate students, including seniors. Graduating seniors are not exempted from final examinations.

Procedures

• Each instructor, department head/school director, and dean is responsible for enforcing the above policies. The University Attendance Policy will be used to establish acceptable excuses for missing and retaking a final examination.
• Any instructor wishing to request a waiver from administering a final examination must do so by submitting a request to the department head/school director for approval. The department head/school director will then forward such requests to the college dean. A course need only be approved once; however, if substantive modifications are made to a course, it should be resubmitted for approval.

Grades

(SDBOR Policy 2.8.1)

The grading system is based on achievement of expectations in a class. Mid-term undergraduate grades will be assigned for all standard full part of term courses unless exempted under Academic Affairs Guideline 2.8.1.A. Final undergraduate grades will be assigned to the undergraduate academic level and to all courses and sections with course numbers ranging from 001 to 499. Plus and minus grades are not used. A grade report is available for each registered student on MyState - Grades and Official Transcripts.

Grade Point Averages

(SDBOR Policy 2.8.1)

The following grade point averages are calculated each academic term (Fall, Spring, Summer):

• Institutional GPA - based on credits earned at a specific Regental university. Utilized to determine if degree requirements have been met and to determine Honors Designation at graduation.
• System Term GPA - based on credits earned at any of the six Regental universities within a given academic term (Fall, Spring, Summer). Utilized to determine minimum progression status.
• Transfer GPA - based on credits earned and officially transferred from an accredited college or university outside the Regental system. When a letter grade that normally calculates into the grade point average exists for a non-academic course (e.g., credit earned via examination), it will be included in the transfer GPA.
• Cumulative GPA - based on all credits earned by the student (transfer credit plus system credit). Utilized to determine minimum progression status and to determine if degree requirements have been met and to determine Honors Designation at graduation. When a course has been repeated for credit, all attempts will be entered on the transcript, but the last grade earned will be used in the calculation of the cumulative grade point average.

The cumulative grade point average (CGPA) is obtained by dividing grade points by the number of all hours attempted. In computing grade point averages all hours attempted (graded A, B, C, D, F) are included.

Repeating a Course to Raise the Grade. All courses taken appear on the student’s academic record, but when a course is repeated, only the most recent grade is calculated into the cumulative GPA and applied to degree requirements if passed.

Students should notify the Registrar’s Office, when a course, whether failed or passed, is repeated.

Grading Rubric

The rubric below is designed to help faculty clearly articulate the standards by which they will assess student work. The rubric reflects broad consensus regarding the chief components of such work - its content, form, and style - and regarding the qualities that mark each grade level. No single rubric, however, applies to every assignment. What follows, then, is a guideline to help foster discussion - and understanding - between faculty and students about performance expectations and about assessment. Faculty may use the rubric as is or adapt it as they see fit.

AU: An audit (AU) grade may be granted only when the student has elected the AU option on or prior to the census date of the term.

CR: A credit (CR) grade may be granted only for non-course credit that is not related to an examination or to equating transfer grades to the BOR grading system. This grade is not used for any Regental university course.

EX: An examination for credit (EX) grade may be granted only for non-course credit validation obtained through a validation process. This grade is not used for any Regental university course.

I: An incomplete (I) grade may be granted only when all of the following conditions apply:

• A student has encountered extenuating circumstances that do not permit him/her to complete the course.
• The student must be earning a passing grade at the time the Incomplete is necessitated. Anticipated course failure is not a justification for an incomplete.
• The student does not have to repeat the course to meet the requirements.
• The instructor must agree to grant an incomplete grade.
• The instructor and student must agree on a plan to complete the coursework.
• The coursework must be completed within one semester; extensions may be granted by the institutional Chief Academic Affairs Officer.
• If the student completes the course within the specified time, the grades that may be assigned are A, B, C, D, F, S, RS, RU, or U.
• If the student does not complete the course within the specified time, the grade assigned will be F (Failure) or U (Unsatisfactory) or RU (Remedial Unsatisfactory) or S/U as applicable.

IP: An in progress (IP) grade may be granted only when all of the following conditions apply:

• The requirements for the course (for every student enrolled in the course) extend beyond the current term.
• The extension beyond the current term must be defined before the class begins.
• The instructor must request permission to award IP grades for a course from their Department Head and Dean, and then approval must be obtained from the institutional Chief Academic Affairs Officer or designee.
• A definite date for completion of the course must be established in the course syllabus.

With the exception of an “I” that has not been completed within the specified time, any grade reported to the Registrar may be changed by recommendation of the instructor and college dean with approval of the Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Any graduating senior or graduating graduate student who receives an Incomplete or In Progress grade in the final semester in a course required for graduation, or who has not removed an outstanding incomplete or in progress from a previous semester in a course required for graduation by the date grades are due for the semester, will not be permitted to graduate that semester. He or she will be required to apply for graduation for a subsequent semester. Emergency situations require the filing of a petition by the student to his/her Academic Dean for approval prior to the final grading deadline for the final semester.

When the student has graduated and the degree has been recorded, the record is considered officially closed, and an instructor can no longer change a grade, including the “I” and “IP” grades.

NG: A grade of NG will be used only with those course sections that are designated as Tracking/Program Sustaining (Q) and those that are assigned the code for Master’s Research Problems/Projects Sustaining, Thesis Sustaining, or Dissertation Sustaining (U).

RI, RS, RU: Remedial grades (RI, RS, RU) may be granted only for courses numbered 001 to 099.

S/U: A Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (S/U) grade may be granted only when the entire course requires the S/U grade or the student has elected the S/U option on or prior to the census date of the term.

The primary objective of the Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory System is to encourage students to attempt courses in areas they would normally avoid because of lack of background.

A student may enroll in up to 20 credits using the Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory System.

These credits must be outside the student’s major and may not serve to satisfy university, college, or departmental specific requirements, unless program exceptions exist.

Colleges may further restrict the Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory credit option.

A “D” letter grade or better is considered to be a passing grade in a Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory elective.

Registration for Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory electives will be accomplished only after registration day by Audit/Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory Form to the Registrar’s Office.

The Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory option should be known only to the academic advisor, instructor, the student and the registrar.

Students may request to change from satisfactory/unsatisfactory elective to graded credit or vice versa only during the add period.

The grade (S or U) will be recorded on a student’s permanent record. A grade of S or U will not count in the computation of the semester or the cumulative grade point average. If the course is passed (grade of “D” or better), the credits will be counted towards graduation.

Note: Some courses are taught only on a Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory basis. Consult the specific department for more information.

WD: Beginning with the Fall 2015 term, a grade of withdrawal (WD) may be assigned only six times during a student’s undergraduate career. If the student drops additional classes, a grade of WFL will be assigned. Withdrawal grades assigned to continuously enrolled students prior to this term will not count against the limit. Additionally, those withdrawal grades assigned at a non-Regental institution prior to entry as a transfer student will not be counted against the six course limits. This limit does not include W grades assigned if a student withdraws from all classes in a given term, which will be assigned a WW grade. The campus Chief Academic Officer may make exceptions to this requirement in those cases where there are unique factors.

Graduation 

Graduation Application 

The student must submit a graduation application on MyState by the date specified by the Graduate School for the term in which completion of the advanced degree is expected. Failure to submit this application will result in a delay in graduation. Students who submit an application but fail to graduate will be assessed a $50 charge and a registration hold will be placed on their account. The registration hold will be removed once the charge is paid. 

Commencement Attendance 

All students are encouraged to participate in the spring commencement ceremony; however, attendance is optional. Graduate students who have not completed all degree requirements for graduation may participate in commencement; however, they will need to RSVP via MyState signature approximately 6 weeks prior to commencement. Graduate students will have two opportunities to participate in commencement:  1) the next regularly scheduled ceremony following completion of the degree or 2) the second regularly scheduled ceremony following completion of the degree. Students will only be allowed to attend no more than one commencement ceremony per completed degree. Attendance at commencement or inclusion in the commencement program does not, in itself, constitute completing or receiving a graduate degree. 

Diplomas are mailed approximately three months after the degree is awarded. 

See the graduation website for more information regarding graduation and commencement guidelines.  

Graduation Dates 

(SDBOR Policy 2.6.2) 

• The official date of graduation for the term is the last date of the term. For the Fall and Spring terms, this date is the last date of final examinations. For the Summer term, it is the last date of the full summer term. This date of graduation will be recorded both on the academic transcript and on the diploma. 
• Commencement ceremonies may be held prior to the official graduation date or after the official graduation date. 
• A student’s official date of graduation shall be the official date of graduation for the term in which the student successfully completes all requirements. 
• The final graduation verification date for each term will be two days prior to the Clearinghouse certification date. 
  • The institution’s Vice President for Academic Affairs may make an exception to the final graduation verification date for student teachers who complete their student teaching experience on a date after the verification deadline. 
  • The Medical School is exempted from the final graduation verification date. 
  • Other than the exceptions noted above for student teachers and the Medical School, a student’s date of graduation will not be backdated. If the student does not meet graduation requirements prior to the verification deadline, the student must apply for graduation in a future term. 

Home Institution

All the universities governed by the South Dakota Board of Regents are in a merged environment in which credit earned by a student at any regental university, as well as all transfer work received and recorded from outside the regental system, is recorded on one “system” transcript. In this environment, students designate as their “home institution” the institution from which they seek their degree, and the home institution governs the policies affecting its students.

Last Date of Attendance

The university is required to provide attendance information regarding certain student populations, e.g. student athletes, international students on student visas, and students who receive Financial Aid or funding as veterans. 

This information is collected from instructors for each course twice each term: during mid-term reporting for advising purposes, and at the end of the term when grades are submitted. At mid-term Last Date of Attendance (LDA) information is only collected if a student receives a mid-term grade of “F.” End-of-term LDA information is only collected if a student receives a grade of “F” or “I” for a particular course.

Instructors define what attendance means for each course. In general, the “last day of attendance” is considered to be: 

• the last day the student attended class in courses in which attendance is taken by the instructor,  
• the last day on which a student submitted an assignment, quiz, or test, or
• the last day on which a student actively participated in a group or online activity in classes in which attendance is not regularly taken.

Placement Process for English, Math, and Reading Courses

Placement into Initial English Courses

(SDBOR Academic Affairs Guidelines 2.2.1.1.B)

The South Dakota Board of Regents has developed a standardized process for initial placement of students in English composition courses. Students are placed in accordance with acknowledged skills and abilities. Such placement promises a match between student preparation/dispositions and course rigor; it positions students for collegiate success in English, which retains vital importance.

All incoming, degree seeking students at the undergraduate level are initially placed in English courses as established by approved guidelines. Transfer students who have fulfilled general education requirements in English are exempt. For non-degree seeking students, placement is relevant only if students pursue registration in English course work. In such cases, placement procedures do apply.

Initial placement is determined by the English Placement Matrix. Students are placed into either ENGL 101 , ENGL 032  (which is taken concurrently with ENGL 101), or ENGL 033 .

*After consulting with an academic advisor, students may opt to take the co-requisite course (ENGL 032/ENGL 101) or the prerequisite course (ENGL 033). SDSU advises students with ACCUPLACER scores below the cutoff for placement into ENGL 101, to adhere to the placement policy of the South Dakota Board of Regents, which places students in Basic Writing III (ENGL 033). SDBOR AAC Guideline 2.3.7.B also states that students must successfully complete this course within the first 30 credit hours. However, if students have an English ACT score of 16 or 17 that was obtained in the last 5 years, or if they otherwise wish to be considered for the 032/101 co-requisite course, they should consult with their academic advisor. Approval is ultimately obtained from the School of English and Interdisciplinary Studies director or designee.

For students with valid ACT or Smarter Balanced Assessment scores, the English or English Language Arts (ELA) scores are used to determine placement into the initial English course. Valid ACT or Smarter Balanced scores are scores that were earned by the student within five (5) years of the date of initial enrollment within the Regental system. If a student has multiple ACT scores, the highest ACT English subscore is used for placement purposes. Students who do not have valid ACT or Smarter Balanced scores must sit for the ACCUPLACER Writing placement exam. Students without valid ACT or Smarter Balanced scores, and who are unable to take the ACCUPLACER exam may qualify using the Alternate English Placement Procedures outlined in these guidelines.

In rare circumstances when a first-time student does not have valid ACT or Smarter Balanced scores, and ACCUPLACER testing is not an option for a student, universities may use the student’s letter grade(s) in his or her most recent high school academic year’s English courses. Using this method, placement into ENGL 101 requires a letter grade of B or better in each English course. Students with a letter grade of C in any English course, or students without a recent English course letter grade, may be placed into English courses by taking a proctored essay-writing assignment administered by the student’s university of enrollment. This assignment is assessed by the university’s English program department chair or department chair designee. Assessment is holistic, with students completing sufficient assignments placed in ENGL 101 and students completing insufficient assignments placed in ENGL 033 or ENGL 032 (which must be taken with the 101 co-requisite). Students with a letter grade of D or F in any English course are placed into ENGL 033 or ENGL 032 (which must be taken with the 101 co-requisite).

Following course registration, but before start of the applicable term, new exam scores may become available. In such situations, placement is reassessed; changes to course registrations may be either merited or required. Students taking the Accuplacer exam outside of the regental system will be allowed to transfer their placement test scores and these scores will be used in the Board of Regent Placement policy. This can be accomplished by logging into the ACCUPLACER student portal and sharing your ACCUPLACER score report(s) with the Testing Center at South Dakota State University.  Full directions can be found at www. ACCUPLACER.org.

The regental system conscientiously adheres to relevant legislation (South Dakota Human Relations Act of 1972, Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Americans with Disabilities Act); in that spirit, South Dakota State University offers reasonable accommodation for students who submit such requests in advance of scheduled test sessions.

Placement into Initial Math Courses

(SDBOR Academic Affairs Guidelines 2.2.1.1.A)

The South Dakota Board of Regents has developed a standardized process for initial placement of students in math courses. Consistently employed across the regental system, this policy is aligned with proven measures of math readiness. Students are placed in accordance with acknowledged skills and abilities. Such placement positions students for collegiate success in mathematics and assures a fitting level of academic challenge for those who demonstrate higher levels of skill in mathematics. 

All students at the undergraduate level (whether seeking a degree or not) wishing to take a math course are initially placed as established by approved guidelines.

Current HS GPA (no more than 5 years old) is the preferred, single measure of academic preparation used for initial placement. Additional placement measures include the math index which combines current HS GPA with ACT Math sub score (or SAT equivalent), Smarter Balanced Scores, or ALEKS. Students without a current High School GPA will take the ACCUPLACER examination to establish initial placement.

*SAT is converted to equivalent ACT for MI calculation.
**Accuplacer domains: QAS: Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra and Statistics; AAF: Advanced Algebra and Functions

Students desiring to challenge their initial placement should meet with their advisor to determine whether it is possible to change their placement using the ACCUPLACER exam. 

Students who, prior to enrollment at South Dakota State University, have completed math courses which are equivalent to courses which satisfy SGR #5 and/or prerequisites for future courses are exempt from placement requirements.

Students taking the Accuplacer exam outside of the regental system will be allowed to transfer their placement test scores and these scores will be used in the Board of Regent Placement policy. This can be accomplished by logging into the ACCUPLACER student portal and sharing your ACCUPLACER score report(s) with the Testing Center at South Dakota State University.  Full directions can be found at www.accuplacer.org.

The regental system conscientiously adheres to relevant legislation (South Dakota Human Relations Act of 1972, Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Americans with Disabilities Act); in that spirit, South Dakota State University offers reasonable accommodation for students who submit such requests in advance of scheduled test sessions.

Completion of Pre-General Education Courses in English and Mathematics

(SDBOR Academic Affairs Guideline 2.3.7.B)

Pre-general education courses include remedial mathematics and English courses. Students who are placed into remedial courses should successfully complete the remedial course(s) prior to enrolling in initial General Education courses in English composition and mathematics. Pre-general education courses include ENGL 032 , ENGL 033 , MATH 093 , MATH 094 , and MATH 101 .

Students placed in pre-general education courses should be enrolled in and successfully complete the courses within the first 30 credit hours attempted.

Credit Hours and Grades

• Credit hours for the pre-general education courses are included in the total number of credit hours attempted to establish full time status.
• Credit hours for ENGL 032, ENGL 033, MATH 093 and MATH 094 do not count towards total number of credit hours required to graduate.
• The grades assigned for courses numbered less than 100 will be RI, RS, and RU.

Reading Placement

(SDSU Policy 2:28)

Policy

• Placement in READ 145 - Reading Strategies (COM)  helps ensure that students have the necessary reading skills to be successful in college-level courses. This college reading course provides students with multiple strategies to promote comprehension skills, develop vocabulary and enhance metacognition to become strategic readers.
• All entering students seeking an associate or baccalaureate degree must either provide valid ACT/SAT/Smarter Balanced scores (i.e., within the last five (5) years) or take the reading ACCUPLACER examination.
  • Students who score 17 or less on the ACT in reading are required to successfully complete the READ 145 Reading Strategies course with a grade of D or higher within their first 30 credit hours.
  • Transfer students with fewer than 30 credits completed and without valid ACT/SAT/ Smarter Balanced scores are required to complete the reading ACCUPLACER examination.
  • Transfer students with 30 or more completed and accepted credits and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above at the time of transfer are exempt from completing the reading course, regardless of ACT/SAT scores.
• Students who are placed in READ 145 may challenge their placement by taking the reading ACCUPLACER examination. Students are allowed two (2) attempts, and if the student’s score is 261 or greater, the student will not be required to complete READ 145.
• For all students with valid SAT scores, the SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (formerly “Writing plus Critical Reading”) will be equated to ACT reading scores. Students with an SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 490 or higher will not be required to complete READ 145.
• Students with a valid 11th Grade Smarter Balanced English Language Arts/Literacy score that meets or exceeds the SDBOR threshold for English placement are exempt from taking READ 145. 11th Grade Smarter Balanced scores may only be used if on the high school transcript.
• The requirement to complete READ 145 will be waived if a student has successfully completed a comparable three (3)-credit college reading course with a grade of least D or satisfactory.
• The University shall provide accommodation regarding the provision of ACCUPLACER examinations pursuant to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Procedures

• Students participating in New Student Orientation (NSO) will be notified of their placement status at such time. All other students will receive notification from their academic advisor about their reading placement status.
• To challenge their reading placement, students contact the SDSU Testing Center to pay the challenge fee and complete the ACCUPLACER Reading Test. The score is then entered into the student information system.
  • The SDSU Testing Center can set up a remote ACCUPLACER test for students who are unable to complete the test on campus. In this situation, the Testing Center will issue the student a voucher that can be used to test at a certified ACCUPLACER testing site with a SDBOR ACCUPLACER branching test package. There may be an additional cost to test at a testing site not affiliated with the SDBOR.
  • If a student is unable to test at any of the listed ACCUPLACER test sites, they may test remotely with a virtual proctor. There is an additional cost for this service and a computer with internet access and a webcam is required.
• Entering students who meet any exemption identified above must complete the Reading Placement Exemption Form and submit it to the SDSU Testing Center.

Students Called to Active Military Service

(SDBOR Policy 2.1.3, SDBOR Policy 5.7)

Students who belong to a military unit called for duty or who are drafted and not eligible for deferment and who are required to withdraw from state supported institutions before completing an academic program to which they have been duly admitted will be eligible to resume work on the program after their release from active duty. SDBOR Policy 5.7 sets forth Board policies concerning special tuition refunds and related policies that take effect when students are required to report for active duty part-way through an academic term.

Student Conduct Code

(SDSU Policy 3:1)

South Dakota State University has established standards for expected and acceptable behavior for members of its campus community. Students are expected to be familiar with these standards and related policies so that they know their responsibilities (what they may be held accountable for) and to protect their rights (what they may hold others accountable for).

Academic institutions exist for the transmission of knowledge, the pursuit of truth, the development of students, and the general support for the well-being of society. Free inquiry and expression are indispensable to the attainment of these goals. Freedom to teach and freedom to learn are inseparable facets of academic freedom. The freedom to learn depends upon appropriate opportunities and conditions in the classroom, on campus and in the community. Students are expected to exercise this freedom with responsibility.

The Student Conduct Code is the basic guideline reflecting university-student relations. The Code defines student behavior, expectations and related university conduct procedures. Refer to SDSU Policy 3:1 for the Student Conduct Code policies and procedures.

Student Complaints - Institutional Record

To comply with federal regulations, the Higher Learning Commission expects SDSU and affiliated institutions to make available an account of the student complaints it has received, its processing of those complaints, and how that processing comports with the institution’s policies and procedures on the handling of grievances or complaints. (HLC Policy Number: FDCR.A.10.030) Records will be kept with Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Human Resources, and departments responsible for student support and accountability. 

The complaint process is subject to the South Dakota Board of Regents policies, and will follow the institutional policies listed below:

• SDSU Policy 2:4 Student Academic Misconduct and Academic Appeals
• SDSU Policy 3:1 Student Code of Conduct
• SDSU Policy 4:3 Equal Access and Opportunity and Non-Discrimination
• SDSU Policy 4:4 Sexual Harassment
• SDSU Policy 4:5 Prevention of Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking, and Hazing
• SDSU Policy 4:6 Human Rights Complaints

SDSU’s main objective is to help students meet their academic goals through a positive and rigorous academic experience. In addition to the above-referenced policies, SDSU maintains a webpage outlining the various processes for students with concerns and complaints, whether academic or non-academic.

Student Email

(SDSU Policy 3:8)

Email messages sent by SDSU to students through university-assigned, jacks email addresses will constitute an official means of communication. It is the student’s responsibility and obligation to access official university email messages in a timely manner. Students will be responsible for maintaining and managing their university email accounts to ensure timely response to notifications and that storage space allotment is not exceeded. As other email accounts may be blocked by the SDSU firewall, SDSU is only able to monitor student emails coming from university-assigned email accounts.

Inappropriate use of the university student email system will be considered a violation of policy, and students who so violate will be disciplined in accordance with the Student Conduct Code. Student violators may also be subject to revocation or limitation of email privileges as well as referral to appropriate external authorities.

Student Recording of Classroom Lectures, Distribution of Course Materials, and Copyright Violations

(SDSU Policy 2:16, SDSU Policy 7:3, SDSU Policy 9:4)

Recording of Classroom Lectures and Distribution of Course Materials policy prohibits or restricts the recording of classroom lectures or redistribution of classroom materials in order to respect the integrity and effectiveness of the classroom experience, protect students’ and faculty members’ privacy, respect faculty and university rights in instructional materials, and to comply with copyright laws, including the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998 (“DMCA”).  Students are encouraged to report instances of copyright infringement in good faith to the Office of Student Conduct (for students) and SDSU Human Resources (for SDSU employees).

Student Travel and Field Trips

Student Organization Travel and Field Trips

(SDSU Policy 2:12)

SDSU strives to promote safe travel by university students and members of the university’s recognized student organizations for certain student activities or trips, as well as set forth the university protocols for the certain activities or trips. Refer to SDSU Policy 2:12 for the Student Organization Travel and Field Trips policy and procedure.

Students with Disabilities

(SDSU Policy 4:13)

South Dakota State University (SDSU) reaffirms that it is committed to a policy of non-discrimination on the basis of physical or mental disability/impairment in the offering of all benefits, services, educational, and employment opportunities.

The Director of Student Accessibility and Accommodations Specialists work with students with documented disabilities as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Amendment Act to ensure access to the University’s programs, services, and activities. For information, please email the Office of Student Accessibility or call 605-688-4504.

The University ADA Coordinator, or successor, serves as the principal planning and compliance coordinator for university programs, policies, and procedures to facilitate university compliance under the ADA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, applicable state law and SDBOR and university policies for persons with disabilities. 

The ADA Coordinator is designated as the SDSU ‘Responsible Employee’ to coordinate institutional compliance and is dedicated to ensuring that SDSU provides an accessible and welcoming environment.

Study Abroad and Travel Warnings

(SDSU Policy 2:11)

SDSU Policy 2:11 (Study Abroad and Travel Warnings) addresses the procedures to be followed when the U.S. Department of State or federal government or state agency with authority over aspects of travel issue travel warnings for a country or location in which SDSU undergraduate or graduate students are studying or are planning to study, or where the federal government otherwise takes actions to curtail or prevent international travel.

Textbook Policy

(SDSU Policy 2:10)

The SDSU Textbook policy and related procedures set forth the requirements for selecting and ordering textbooks and course materials and for making all materials available to students in a timely manner. Refer to SDSU Policy 2:10 for the Textbook policy and procedure.