General Studies (AA)

In addition to being offered on Northern State University’s main campus (Aberdeen, SD), this major is also available online and at Huron Community Campus.

Student Learning Outcomes

• A systematic process of exploring issues, objects or works through the collection and analysis of evidence that results in informed conclusions or judgments. Analysis is the process of breaking complex topics or issues into parts to gain a better understanding of them. General Studies students will demonstrate the ability to understand and discuss data/information in topics of their interest (e.g., allied health, business, education, fine arts, humanities, social sciences, engineering and math, technology and/or wellness). (Cross-curricular Skill: Inquiry and Analysis)
• A habit of mind characterized by the comprehensive exploration of issues, ideas, artifacts, and events before accepting or formulating an opinion or conclusion. Both the capacity to combine or synthesize existing ideas, images, or expertise in original ways and the experience of thinking, reacting, and working in an imaginative way characterized by a high degree of innovation, divergent thinking, and risk taking. General Studies students will demonstrate this through effective oral and written communication in their field of interest. (Cross-curricular Skill: Critical and Creative Thinking)
• The ability to know when there is a need for information, to be able to identify, locate, evaluate, and effectively and responsibly use and convey that information to address the need or problem at hand. General Studies students will demonstrate this by identifying appropriate sources and analyzing and interpreting data in their field of interest. (Cross-curricular Skill: Information Literacy)
• Developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values, and motivation that make a difference in the civic life of communities and promoting the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes. Engagement encompasses the actions wherein individuals participate in activities of personal and public concern that are both individually life enriching and socially beneficial to the community. (Cross-curricular Skill: Civic Knowledge and Engagement)
• Cognitive, affective and behavioral skills that support effective and appropriate interaction in a variety of cultural contexts. General Studies students will understand the diversity and complexity of the human experiences through study of the arts and humanities. (Cross-curricular Skill: Intercultural Knowledge)