Geography Department Records

Identity elements

Reference code

SDSU-Archives UA 006.13

Level of description

Records

Title

Geography Department Records

Date(s)

  • 1973-2021, undated (Creation)

Extent

0.84 linear feet (2 document cases)

Name of creator

Administrative history

Geography was among the first subjects taught at South Dakota State University upon its founding in 1881. Although geography courses were occasionally offered through various departments, a formal program did not emerge until 1966–67, when a bachelor's degree in geography was approved. In 1968, the Department of History and Geography was established. By 1971, the program had expanded significantly, leading to increased faculty appointments. A separate Department of Geography was created in 1973, followed by the approval of a Master of Science degree in Geography in 1974.

Today, the geography curriculum trains students to describe, analyze, and explain natural and cultural phenomena that distinguish regions around the world. Courses emphasize technical geography, environmental planning, and resource management.

Content and structure elements

Scope and content

The Geography Department Records are composed of materials documenting the academic, administrative, and outreach activities of the Geography Department at South Dakota State University. The collection includes departmental budgets, internal and external program reviews, institutional self-studies, and graduate program self-studies, reflecting the department’s development and evaluation over time. It also contains newsletters, correspondence, and materials related to academic events, including lectures, conferences, and the Geographic Information Science Center of Excellence. Of note are files related to Dr. Edward P. Hogan and a booklet on graduate studies in geography, as well as local research materials such as House Types in Brookings, SD: A Visible History. These records provide insight into curriculum development, departmental planning, and the promotion of geographic research and education.

This collection documents the growth and professionalization of the Geography Department at SDSU, including its engagement with national geographic organizations, its role in regional research, and its contributions to geographic education and applied science. Materials related to the Geographic Information Science Center of Excellence and the honoring of Dr. Hogan highlight both technological innovation and individual scholarly impact within the department.

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Conditions governing access

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In Copyright This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses, you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

Materials in this collection may be subject to Title 17, Section 108 of the United States Copyright Act. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with copyright, privacy, trademark, and other applicable rights for their intended use. Obtaining all necessary permissions is the user's responsibility. Written authorization from the copyright and/or other rights holders is required for publication, distribution, or any use of protected materials beyond what is permitted under fair use. .sdstate.edu/sdsu-archives-and-special-collections/researcher-registration-form)

The collection is open for research, but please note that the materials in the Archives do not circulate and can only be used In the SDSU Archives and Special Collections Reading Room.

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If you cannot visit the Archives in person, please reach out to us. We will do our best to help you find the information you need.

In most cases, the materials in this collection have not been digitized and are not available online.

South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections supports access to the materials in its collections. However, access to some items may be restricted due to their fragile condition, donor agreements, or other considerations.

If you would like to know more about the contents of the collection, please contact the SDSU Archives at: Telephone: 605-688-5094 Email: arcrefs@sdstate.edu

Physical access

Technical access

Conditions governing reproduction

Reproduction of materials from the collection is subject to the following conditions:

  • Permission: Written permission must be obtained from the SDSU Archives for any reproduction, publication, or quotation of materials.
  • Copyright: Users are responsible for complying with copyright laws and securing any necessary permissions from copyright holders.
  • Fragile Materials: Some items may not be reproduced due to their fragile condition.
  • Charges: Reproduction charges may apply, and users will be informed of any costs in advance.
  • Acknowledgment: Any reproduced material must include proper acknowledgment of the South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections as the source.

    For more information or to request permission, please contact the SDSU Archives.

Languages of the material

  • English

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    Appraisal, destruction and scheduling information

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    Notes element

    General note

    Copyright and Use Statement

    In Copyright This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses, you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

    Materials in this collection may be subject to Title 17, Section 108 of the United States Copyright Act. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with copyright, privacy, trademark, and other applicable rights for their intended use. Obtaining all necessary permissions is the user's responsibility. Written authorization from the copyright and/or other rights holders is required for publication, distribution, or any use of protected materials beyond what is permitted under fair use.

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