Southwest Minnesota State University
About
Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) is a four-year public university that prepares you for success—both in your career and in life. Nationally recognized as a university of choice, SMSU was named the #1 Best Value School for education students. That means you get a high-quality teacher preparation program that’s affordable, effective, and designed to help you make a real impact.
Located in the heart of southwest Minnesota, SMSU is a welcoming campus where people from all backgrounds come together. Students from 34 states and 23 countries bring energy and perspective to campus life. With small class sizes, NCAA Division II athletics, and events happening year-round, you’ll find a strong community where you can grow, connect and thrive.
At SMSU’s School of Education, the mission is simple: to help you become the kind of teacher who changes lives. You’ll gain real classroom experience early and often, build a strong foundation in educational theory, and develop the skills to lead a student-centered classroom. With supportive faculty, hands-on learning, and a focus on real-world teaching, SMSU prepares you to step into the classroom ready to lead, inspire and make an immediate impact.
The Special Education Department was truly a great experience for me. This major couldn't be more rewarding for me. While going through the process the faculty was very accommodating. As a college student, I had a crazy schedule and when in need, the faculty was there day, night or weekend which was a huge comfort. Becoming a Special Education teacher can be challenging but the professors go out of their way to make sure you are going to succeed in the classroom.
Madyson, Special Education completer
Programs
Program Info
Get Deadline Reminders
Ways to Lower Your Costs
Students at Southwest Minnesota State University have reduced the cost of their program using these methods. Check with Southwest Minnesota State University to see if you can, too!
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Grants, Stipends, Scholarships
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Loan Forgiveness
Find information on loan forgiveness programs here.
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Work Study, Working While Still Enrolled
Explore on-campus job opportunities and other student employment options here.
For more information visit:Financial Aid Office
Certifications
Communication Arts and Literature (Grades 5-12) / English Language Arts
Communication Arts and Literature (Grades 5-12) / Speech
Early Childhood (Birth-Grade 3)
Elementary Education (Grades K-6)
Elementary Education (Grades K-6) / Communication Arts and Literature: Middle Level (Grades 5-8)
Elementary Education (Grades K-6) / Mathematics: Middle Level (grades 5-8)
Elementary Education (Grades K-6) / Preprimary (age 3 - prekindergarten)
Elementary Education (Grades K-6) / Science: General Science: Middle Level (grades 5-8)
Elementary Education (Grades K-6) / Social Studies: Middle Level (grades 5-8)
Elementary Education (Grades K-6) / Spanish 5-8
English as a Second Language (Grades K-12)
Health Education (grades 5-12)
Mathematics (grades 5-12)
Music: Instrumental and Classroom Music (grades k-12)
Music: Vocal and Classroom Music (grades k-12)
Physical Education (grades K-12)
Science: Chemistry (grades 9-12)
Science: Life Sciences (grades 9-12)
Social Studies (grades 5-12)