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Winona State University

About

Winona State University, Minnesota’s oldest public university, is a vibrant community where you’ll be inspired to improve the world through rigorous academics, meaningful traditions and hands-on experiences. With a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio and comprehensive support services, WSU boasts the highest student success rate in the Minnesota State system, including a 97 percent job placement rate for graduates.

The College of Education leads in preparing future teachers, counselors, and leaders through fully accredited programs and immersive clinical experiences. Its state-of-the-art Education Village combines historic and modern learning spaces, including classrooms, a children’s center for practicum hours, and innovative facilities like the climbing center and Outdoor Education & Recreation Center.

Dedicated faculty and personalized support ensure you’ll graduate confident and career-ready, equipped to make a meaningful impact in schools and communities across Minnesota and beyond.

  • College or University
  • Winona

Institution Links

  • Admissions
  • Financial Aid Office
  • Online Application

Survey highlights from recent grads: 

  • 91 percent of teacher candidates felt their program gave them the basic skills to effectively teach the subject matter in their licensure area. (2023 Exit Survey)
  • 91 percent of students felt their program gave them the basic skills to differentiate instruction for a variety of learning needs. (2023 Exit Survey)
  • 85 percent of students would recommend their teacher preparation program to a prospective teacher. (2023 Transition to Teaching Survey)
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Programs

Bachelor’s & certification

Undergraduate Teacher Preparation Programs

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  • 48 months

    Program Duration

  • In-person

    Program Format

  • Pre-Test Required

    No

Relevant Links

Program Info

At Winona State University’s College of Education, you’ll gain real-world experience early and often—logging an average of 600 to 800 hours working directly with students before you graduate. Through strong partnerships with local schools and community organizations, you’ll build the skills and confidence you need to thrive in today’s classrooms.

From your very first education course, you’ll step into meaningful field experiences that go far beyond observation. You’ll assist, lead, reflect and adapt—learning how to support diverse learners in real time, guided by dedicated mentor teachers and expert faculty. This hands-on, practical approach sets Winona State apart in Minnesota’s teacher preparation landscape.

Program faculty bring a powerful mix of classroom experience, scholarly insight, and a genuine passion for mentoring future educators. With small class sizes and a collaborative, supportive culture, you’ll receive personalized guidance as you grow into a reflective, student-centered professional.

Grounded in a legacy of excellence and a forward-thinking approach to teacher development, the College of Education prepares you to lead. No matter which licensure path you choose, you’ll join a community of educators committed to equity, innovation and lifelong learning.

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Ways to Lower Your Costs

Students at Winona State University have reduced the cost of their program using these methods. Check with Winona State University to see if you can, too!

Amount
Description

Varies

Grants, Stipends, Scholarships

Winona State University is committed to making high-quality teacher preparation accessible and affordable.

College of Education scholarships are available and totaled more than $328,000 across nearly 150 awards in spring 2025. 

University-wide scholarships—including academic achievement, presidential honor, alumni-funded and transfer scholarships—offer meaningful financial support to help you focus on becoming the educator you’re meant to be.

Varies

Work Study, Working While Still Enrolled

Campus jobs offer a flexible way to earn money and gain valuable experience. Over 1,000 students work in roles across campus each year, earning at least university minimum wage. Education majors often work at the Children’s Center, combining income with hands-on learning. 

Work study positions are based on financial need, but student help jobs are open to all students

For more information visit:Financial Aid Office

Certifications

Bilingual-Bicultural
Business Education (grades 5-12)
CTE: Construction Careers (grades 7-12)
CTE: Manufacturing Careers (grades 7-12)
CTE: Transportation Careers (grades 7-12)
Communication Arts and Literature (Grades 5-12)
Communication Arts and Literature: Middle Level (Grades 5-8)
Early Childhood (Birth-Grade 3) / Elementary Education (Grades K-6)
Elementary Education (Grades K-6)
English as a Second Language (Grades K-12)
Health Education (grades 5-12)
Mathematics (grades 6-12)
Mathematics: Middle Level (grades 5-8)
Music: Instrumental and Classroom Music (grades k-12)
Music: Vocal and Classroom Music (grades k-12)
Physical Education (grades k-12)
Science: Chemistry (grades 5-12)
Science: Earth and Space Science (grades 5-12)
Science: General Science: Middle Level (grades 5-8)
Science: Life Sciences (grades 5-12)

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Dig deeper. Visit Winona State University's website to learn more and apply.