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Help Revitalize Native Language!
The basic Oceti Sakowin language certificate provides students a language certificate that marks their achievements in acquiring Oceti Sakowin language at the basic level, of which Dakota, Nakota and Lakota are types of dialects. The certificate includes elementary and intermediate language study, with a focus on developing all modes of language production: speaking, listening, writing and reading in an everyday context. The certificate may be completed as a stand-alone program and may be taken by any students regardless of major. The basic Oceti Sakowin language certificate will be a value-added credential to students majoring in several programs in which communication with modern non-English language populations can be vital. Areas of study may include majors/programs in agriculture, American Indian and Indigenous studies, business economics, communication, education, health sciences and social sciences.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Seek to gain basic language proficiency in Oceti Sakowin language.
- Want to learn about American Indian cultures and Indigenous worldviews.
- Value intercultural communication skills.
- Seek to advance native language revitalization.
- Are interested in community involvement.
Career Opportunities
- Community and youth development leader
- Tribal or government employee
- Teacher
- Social worker
- University professor
- Healthcare worker
Suggested Majors
- Agricultural Education, Communication and Leadership (B.S.) - Communication Specialization
- Agricultural Education, Communication and Leadership (B.S.) - Leadership Specialization
- Animal Science (B.S.) - Industry Relations Specialization
- Animal Science (B.S.) - Production Management Specialization
- Communication Studies (B.A./B.S.)
- Communication Studies (B.A./B.S.) - Speech Education Specialization
- Criminology (B.A./B.S.)
- Early Childhood Education (B.S.) - Birth to Eight Specialization
- Global Studies (B.A.)
- History (B.A./B.S.)
- Human Development and Family Studies (B.S.)
- Political Science (B.A./B.S.)
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.