2012-2013 Undergraduate Catalog

To access the 2012-2013 Graduate catalog click here.

The information contained in this catalog is the most accurate available at the time of publication, but changes may become effective before the next catalog is printed. It is ultimately the student’s responsibility to stay abreast of current regulations, curricula, and the status of specific programs being offered. Further, the university reserves the right, as approved by the Board of Regents, to modify requirements, curricula offerings, and charges, and to add, alter, or delete courses and programs through appropriate procedures. While reasonable efforts will be made to publicize such changes, a student is encouraged to seek current information from appropriate offices.

Please note that the university reserves the right to change graduation or other academic requirements where changes are necessary to comply with Board of Regents policy directives, to meet external demands relating to accountability or accreditation standards, to reflect curriculum changes or substitutions or to implement evolving discipline requirements in major fields.

Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy

In accordance with the South Dakota Board of Regents Policy 1:19, 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 service, without discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, gender, transgender, sexual orientation, religion, age, or disability. The Board reaffirms its commitment to the objectives of affirmative action, equal opportunity and non-discrimination 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 1:18 of this policy. For additional information, please contact the Director of Equal Opportunity, Room 205 - Slagle, Vermillion, SD 57069. Phone: 605-677-5651 E-Mail: equalopp@usd.edu.

Admission decisions at the U are made without regard to disabilities. All prospective students are expected to present academic credentials at or above the minimum standards for admission and meet any technical standards that may be required for admission to a specific program. If you are a prospective student with a disability and need assistance or accommodations during the admission/application process, please contact the Director of Disability Services, 119B Service Center North, USD, Vermillion, SD 57069. Phone: 605-677-6389 Fax: 605-677-3172 E-Mail: dservice@usd.edu 

Federal Law prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act). The University has designated Ms. Roberta Ambur, Vice President of Administration & ITS, as the Coordinator to monitor compliance with these statutes. This obligates USD and Ms. Ambur to provide equal access for all persons with disabilities.  

The University of South Dakota

The University of South Dakota, the first public university established in the Dakota Territory and the flagship university within the South Dakota system of higher education, highly values excellence in teaching and learning, advancement of knowledge, public service, freedom of thought and expression, and personal responsibility and development. USD provides a strong liberal arts education and an array of regionally and nationally recognized professional and graduate programs. Undergraduate programs provide a solid foundation for entry-level careers and for graduate and professional degrees at USD or other institutions of higher education. Graduate and professional programs at USD prepare students to contribute to their disciplines and professions as well as to their communities through scholarship, leadership, and service. The University provides students an intellectually stimulating educational experience, in and out of the classroom, within a supportive and diverse community of active learners. The students’ academic and personal growth is assured through an innovative curriculum that integrates excellence in teaching with research and service. At USD, students are inspired to become lifelong learners who will make significant contributions through leadership and service as citizens of the state, the nation, and the world. USD relies on strategic planning, program review, and assessment activities to refine its vision and measure its success in achieving its goal to be the best small, public flagship university in the nation built upon a liberal arts foundation.