Winona State University

Winona State University, located in Winona, Minnesota, is a public university established in 1858. It is the oldest member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System and was the first normal school west of the Mississippi River. The university offers a comprehensive educational experience with a strong focus on student success and career preparation.

Academics

Winona State University offers over 80 undergraduate programs and more than 40 graduate programs across various colleges, including Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences; Education; Science and Engineering; and Business. Notable programs include Nursing, Elementary Education, and Business, which are among the most popular majors. The university emphasizes practical skills and innovative problem-solving, with programs like Computer Science offering concentrations in Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Software Engineering. Winona State was also one of the earliest universities to implement a "Laptop University" program, now known as the e-Warrior Digital Life and Learning Program, providing students with a choice of laptop upon acceptance.

International Students

Winona State University provides comprehensive support services for international students, guiding them through the application process, visa filing, and campus arrival. The university offers a Cross-Cultural Scholarship Program, automatically awarded upon admission, which requires students to participate in cultural sharing and learning projects. While the majority of students are domestic, Winona State has a growing international student population, with students from over 44 countries. International students can also engage in various student clubs and organizations that promote diversity and cultural understanding.

Campus & Location

Winona State University's main campus is situated in Winona, Minnesota, a scenic community nestled in the bluffs of the upper Mississippi River Valley. The campus features a blend of historic buildings and modern facilities, with residence halls accommodating nearly 1,000 students. Winona offers a small-town feel with access to outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and water sports, as well as cultural attractions such as festivals, live music, and art museums. Transportation options include a bus stop on campus and an Amtrak station just three blocks away, providing connections to major cities like Chicago and Minneapolis-St. Paul.

Career Outcomes

Winona State University boasts an impressive graduate employment rate, with nearly 97% of its graduates finding employment after graduation, making it a leader in the Minnesota State system. The university's Career Services plays a crucial role in this success, offering personalized support such as resume review, mock interviews, and internship fairs. Graduates in fields like Materials Engineering, Computer Science, and Registered Nursing tend to have strong earning potentials. Winona State also has strong industry connections, with regional employers like Fastenal and Mayo Clinic actively recruiting its graduates.