
College of Education
The College of Education offers accredited undergraduate and graduate programs that lead the way in research-informed best practices with applied experiences.
Few professions are as critical to a healthy society as teaching, counseling, and leadership.
All College of Education programs are fully accredited and firmly grounded in the liberal arts and sciences. Programs and courses are thoughtfully crafted by our experienced faculty, who model best practices in teaching and learning.
Students also have a wide range of hands-on learning opportunities starting their first year at WSU.
Students complete our programs feeling prepared, confident, and excited for rewarding careers.
At WSU, we build on the noble traditions of the teaching profession with new knowledge and modern practices that are responsive to today’s education environment.
Opened in 2019, the Education Village brings together state-of-the-art technology, collaborative clinical experiences, and academic excellence within teacher education programs and learning spaces.
In this way, future teachers are prepared with the knowledge and skills to meet the needs of school districts and communities in Southeast Minnesota and beyond.
Learning can’t be contained within four walls.
The Outdoor Education & Recreation Center offers training and certification opportunities so students can teach in any environment.
Through the WSU Children’s Center, students can complete practicum hours and gain hands-on experience in the classroom—right on campus.
The Children’s Center provides education and care for infants, toddlers, and children in elementary school.
Latest News

Drawn to Winona State for its small classes and welcoming vibe, Tyler Peil ’25 quickly got involved and found his path in Sport Management.
While finishing his master’s degree, he helped other students grow and became a stronger leader himself.

Winona State Education Studies, Leadership Education, and Physical Education & Sport Science faculty led a national survey on how K-12 teachers use AI in classrooms.
Their work, featured in eSchoolNews and KTTC, is helping shape how schools and instructional coaches use technology to support students.

Future teachers from Winona State met with 12 school districts at the Partner District Event, completing 161 mock interviews.
Hosted by the College of Education’s Center for Student Success, this event led to 62 confirmed teaching placements—a big win for Warriors preparing for the classroom.
Initial licensure and advanced programs are accredited by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB).
The school and clinical mental health counseling masters’ programs are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP). These programs are also recognized for initial state licensure by the PELSB and the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy (BBHT) respectively.
Educational Leadership is accredited by the Minnesota Board of School Administrators (BOSA).
The WSU Children’s Center is accredited by the National Association of the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
We’d love to tell you more about the degree programs, resources for students and partner schools, and news from the College of Education.