University of South Dakota Graduate Catalog 2020-2021

The Catalog is the official source of the university’s academic programs and courses. The catalog should be used as a guide, in collaboration with an academic advisor, in planning a course of study and in meeting requirements for graduation. The definite source for most current University of South Dakota policies may be accessed at: University Policies. University of South Dakota is governed by the laws, regulations, and policies of the South Dakota Board of Regents (SDBOR) and the State of South Dakota. SDBOR policies may be accessed at: Policy Manual.

Per SDBOR Policy 2:20 (https://www.sdbor.edu/policy/documents/2-20.pdf): 

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 published. 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. 

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 sex, race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, gender, gender identification, transgender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, genetic information or veteran status or any other status that may become protected under law against discrimination. 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, Equal Opportunity and Chief Title IX Coordinator, Jean Merkle, 205 Slagle Hall, Vermillion, SD 57069 Phone: 605-658-3665  Jean.Merkle@usd.edu​

Admission decisions 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, Karen Gerety, The Commons, Room 116, USD, Vermillion, SD 57069. Phone: 605-658-3745 Fax: 605-677-3172 E-Mail: disabilityservices@usd.edu

Federal Law prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990), and the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendment Act of 2009. The University has designated Cheryl Tiahrt, Chief Information Officer, as the Coordinator to monitor compliance with these statutes. This obligates USD and Ms. Tiahrt to provide equal access for all persons with disabilities.  

Diversity and Inclusiveness Statement

The University of South Dakota is committed to becoming a regional leader in diversity and inclusiveness initiatives and the practice of Inclusive Excellence.

Diversity and inclusiveness, hallmarks of a twenty-first century institution of higher education, are essential elements of the University of South Dakota’s future. Members of diverse groups possess gifts, talents, experiences, histories, and cultures that allow them to make valuable contributions to the educational mission of the institution and to all those associated with the institution. A rich mixture of cultures contributes to a positive and vibrant campus climate that benefits all students. Furthermore, diversity and inclusiveness are assets that can be utilized to help prepare all students for living and working in an increasingly complex and global society. Accordingly, gender, race/ethnicity, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, religion, disability, veteran’s status, first-generation status, nationality, citizenship, age, and other personal and social dimensions are respected and also highly-valued at USD, where we continue working to ensure that diversity and inclusiveness pervade every level of the University.

Acknowledging and paying particular attention to our strong historical and cultural Native American roots, USD is committed to strengthening existing relationships and developing new relationships with Native American tribes, organizations, and communities within the state, the region, and the nation.

USD is also committed to graduating globally-aware students who are leaders in working with people from diverse backgrounds. An extremely important element of this commitment is USD’s international focus. USD continues to provide and build international-focused opportunities such as study abroad and student exchange, while, also continuing to recruit and retain an increasingly-large and culturally-diverse group of international students who contribute to a vibrant and diverse campus community where everyone belongs.

USD is committed to a systematic, intentional, comprehensive, and holistic approach to diversity and inclusiveness. Approved by Executive Committee on March 14, 2013.