Oglala Lakota College Adds Environmental Science Master's Degree

Oglala Lakota College in Rapid City, S.D., will offer a Master of Science in Environmental Science starting with the recent approval from the Higher Learning Commission. The Institutional Actions Council granted permission for the 36-credit-hour program on Oct. 19.

The curriculum is designed to prepare students to address environmental challenges within their communities. College President Dawn Frank described the approval as an important milestone. She stated that the new degree reflects the institution's commitment to relevant, high-quality education that serves current and future generations.

The program expands the college's graduate offerings, which were previously limited. School officials noted that the initiative aims to prepare future leaders to tackle ecological issues while widening access to advanced education. This aligns with the college's long-standing mission of providing instruction rooted in Lakota culture and specific community needs.

Administration officials recognized the Math, Science and Technology Department for developing the curriculum. The team included department chair Dana Ghering and faculty members Foster Sawyer, Camille Griffith, and Nick Klein.

Oglala Lakota College is a public tribal land-grant institution established in 1971. It serves the Pine Ridge Reservation and surrounding communities in South Dakota.

The college announced the news on Oct. 29, confirming that the program is now active for prospective students.