Brookings Main Campus
Understanding consumer behavior in marketing and management.
Students majoring in Consumer Affairs who pursue the Consumer Services Management specialization are usually interested in marketing, communication, human development, planning principles and working with individuals to develop personal management skills. The Consumer Services Management specialization focuses on the application of resource management concepts for families of varying structures, consumer rights and responsibilities, consumer behavior in making decisions, the impact of the marketplace on problem solving and implementation strategies for working with diverse audiences. Graduates are prepared to engage in a variety of careers such as: management of non-profit organizations, management of retail businesses, Extension, human resources, marketing and sales.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Want to help people improve their well-being
- Read product reviews and/or like making buying decisions
- Realize that what you buy can have an effect on others, the economy, or the environment
- Would enjoy solving real-life problems that affect families and individuals
- Enjoy communicating with diverse people
Career Opportunities
- Retail, Sales, or Marketing Manager
- Consumer Information Specialist
- Consumer Insights Researcher or Analyst
- Chamber of Commerce Director
- Consumer Educator
Recent Employers
- Better Business Bureau
- SD Attorney General’s Office
- Chamber of Commerce or Economic Development in numerous cities
- Sioux Falls Convention and Visitor’s Bureau
- South Dakota Department of Tourism
- Sanford Hospital
- Event centers across the region (Xcel Energy Center, Dacotah Bank Center, Watertown Event Center, etc.)
- Numerous non-profits such as March of Dimes, Humane Society, Salvation Army, Washington Pavilion
Internship Opportunities
- Better Business Bureau
- SD Attorney General’s Office
- Chamber of Commerce or Economic Development in numerous cities
- Sioux Falls Convention and Visitor’s Bureau
- SD Department of Tourism
- Sanford Hospital
- Event centers across the region (Xcel Energy Center, Dacotah Bank Center, Watertown Event Center, etc.)
- Numerous non-profits such as March of Dimes, Humane Society, Salvation Army, Washington Pavilion
Suggested Certificates
Suggested Minors
Clubs and Organizations
- Consumer Affairs Student Organization
- Nonprofit Leadership Alliance
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.