Gordon Tolle, Coordinator
Department of History and Political Science
Scobey Hall 304
605-688-4912
e-mail: gordon.tolle@sdstate.edu
This minor appears on the transcripts of students. EURS minor may be taken with a major in Global Studies or combined with any other major.
A faculty committee appointed from many related disciplines advises the Coordinator.
European studies combines the insights of many disciplines as they are focused on Europe. These disciplines include language and literature, history, art history, philosophy, music, sociology, economics, political science, geography, health science, education, family studies, business and public administration. The topics for the two core courses, Topics in European Culture and Topics in European Society, will vary.
The benefits of this interdisciplinary program are as follows. Cultural Understanding: European Studies provides students with an opportunity to develop greater understanding of the European cultures which have had a great influence on American culture and on the entire world. Social Awareness: Appreciation of the character of various European countries as well as insight into alternative social arrangements comes through examination of the social institutions and policies of other “developed” or “first world” countries. Careers: Students whose career interests focus on Europe through jobs such as trade and commerce, tourism, primary and secondary teaching, positions in multi-national firms and various international agencies will find the European Studies Program provides an introduction to many cultural and social facets of countries where they may later work, tour, live, or study. Travel: Background information about European countries, their languages, history, and people, prepares students for travel on the continent.
Students are required to take courses in both humanities and social sciences. Many of the courses in the program can be used to satisfy the University core requirements (e.g., FREN 101 fulfills part of a language or humanities requirement.) The students must take the interdisciplinary topics courses: EURS 300, Topics in European Culture, and/or EURS301, Topics in European Society (6 credits).
While it is not a requirement, living and studying in Europe may also be used to earn some credits. To enroll in this program, contact the coordinator, Dr. Gordon Tolle, Political Science, phone 605-688-4912.
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