In 1887, the first course work in pharmacy was offered at South Dakota State College [SDSC]. It comprised of physics, algebra, bookkeeping, chemistry, material medica, botany, physiology, hygiene and pharmacy. The course was designed to prepare young men and women as druggists. The first degrees were graduated in 1893. By 1898, a four-year course in pharmacy was offered as an option and by 1930, this option became a required standard. / Between 1931 and 1970, the college saw established the Tau Chapter of Rho Chi, a continuing education program for practicing pharmacists, a five-year curriculum in pharmacy, and an externship program. / According to the 1996-98 undergraduate bulletin, the College of Pharmacy offers a six-year course of study leading to a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. The curriculum is divided into a 2-year pre-pharmacy and a 4-year Professional Program phase. The pre-pharmacy courses provide a solid knowledge base and ability to use critical thought processes in the biological and physical sciences. The four years of the Professional Program incorporate a solid foundation of pharmaceutical science courses as well as a comprehensive sequence of therapeutics and professional practice courses. / The goal of the College is to prepare competent graduates with effective primary care skills which center on the pharmacist's role in ensuring the rational use of medications and related devices to provide optimal therapeutic outcomes for their patients. Another goal is to inspire students to be life-long learners who express a caring professional attitude and seek to be agents of change within the profession.