WSU Graduate Induction Program student and faculty.

Graduate Induction Program

Beginning in 1986, Winona State University (WSU) and Independent School District 535 have been joint participants in a Graduate Induction Program for grades K-6 in the Rochester, MN Public Schools.

The program is designed to assist inexperienced teachers (residents) with challenges unique to entry into the field of education.

Residents complete a Master of Science in Education through a sequence of course work and field components. K-5 residents are placed in elementary school settings. Residents assigned to a sixth grade are at a middle school site.

The Graduate Induction Program is open to students with a K-6 Elementary Education license.

Graduate Resident Application Process

Priority Admission Deadline: Jan. 30, 2020
Standard Admission Deadline: March 19, 2020

1. Complete undergraduate degree by June before summer session begins.

2. Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75, with preference given to those with a 3.00 GPA (includes all post-secondary work).

3. Be eligible for appropriate Minnesota teaching licensure: Elementary Education K-6. Any student who has a criminal record may potentially be unable to obtain licensure.

If a student has questions regarding this please contact the Program Director Dr. Joel Traver at JTraver@winona.edu.

4. Provide:

  • Completed application form
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • Student teaching evaluation from your cooperating teacher
  • Two GIP recommendation forms from college/university faculty
  • Proof of passing Essential Academic Skills Exams (Reading, Writing, and Math), MTLE Pedagogy Tests, and MTLE Content Tests or MN Teaching License

5. Apply to WSU Graduate Application for Admission.

  • Select Summer Term
  • Pay application fee 

Completed applications are due by Thursday, March 19, 2020.

Finalists will be contacted for an interview.


Application materials

Mail completed application materials to:
Graduate Induction Program
WSU, Attn: Sue Parks
859 30th Ave SE,
Rochester, MN, 55904

You can also email materials to sparks@winona.edu