Best Special Education Degrees in Winona Minnesota

Key Takeaways

• Winona, Minnesota offers two primary institutions for special education degrees: Winona State University and Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.
• Both institutions are fully accredited and aligned with Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board requirements.
• Programs range from undergraduate licensure pathways to master’s degrees and additional certifications.
• Field experiences and student teaching placements are embedded in every licensure track.
• Graduates benefit from strong regional demand, with Minnesota special education teachers earning competitive salaries.

Why Study Special Education in Winona, Minnesota?

Winona is home to two respected institutions that offer comprehensive special education degree pathways. With Minnesota facing a continued shortage of licensed special education teachers, graduates entering this field experience strong job placement and long-term career stability.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, special education teachers earn a median annual salary above $62,000 nationally, with Minnesota salaries often exceeding the national average due to demand and district-level incentives. The Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board regulates licensing requirements, and both Winona institutions align their curriculum directly with these standards.

If your goal is licensure, advancement, or specialization in mild to moderate disabilities, academic behavioral strategist roles, or developmental disabilities, Winona provides clear, structured pathways.

Accredited Institutions Offering Special Education Degrees

Winona State University (WSU)

Winona State University is a public university recognized for strong teacher preparation programs. Its education programs are accredited through CAEP and approved by the Minnesota PELSB.

Special Education Programs at WSU:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education with licensure
• Academic Behavioral Strategist (ABS) licensure preparation
• Master of Science in Special Education
• Additional licensure programs for practicing teachers

Program Strengths:

• Extensive field placements beginning early in the program
• Strong partnerships with regional school districts
• Research-informed coursework in inclusive practices and behavioral intervention
• High first-time licensure exam pass rates

WSU integrates classroom theory with hands-on practicum experiences across multiple grade levels. Students benefit from small cohort sizes and structured mentorship during student teaching.

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is a private institution known for personalized learning and flexible graduate education formats.

Special Education Programs at Saint Mary’s:

• Bachelor’s in Special Education
• M.A. in Special Education
• Licensure pathways in Academic Behavioral Strategist and Developmental Disabilities
• Online and hybrid graduate formats

Program Strengths:

• Flexible scheduling for working educators
• Online and blended course delivery options
• Ethics-driven curriculum emphasizing advocacy and leadership
• Personalized advising and faculty access

Saint Mary’s is particularly attractive to career changers and currently licensed educators seeking endorsements or advanced degrees.

Side-by-Side Comparison of Special Education Programs in Winona

Feature Winona State University Saint Mary’s University Institution Type Public University Private University Undergraduate Licensure Yes Yes Master’s in Special Education Yes Yes Online Options Limited Hybrid Yes, multiple formats Field Experience Early and Extensive Embedded with flexibility Licensure Alignment Minnesota PELSB Approved Minnesota PELSB Approved Best For Traditional undergraduates Working professionals and career changers

Tuition and Financial Aid Considerations

Cost is often a deciding factor. As a public institution, WSU typically offers lower in-state tuition rates. Updated tuition information is available via the Winona State tuition page.

Saint Mary’s tuition reflects private university pricing, but many students qualify for scholarships or employer tuition reimbursement. Details can be found on the Saint Mary’s financial aid page.

Students should also explore federal aid through Federal Student Aid and consider TEACH Grants, which provide funding for students committing to teach in high-need areas such as special education.

Minnesota Licensure Pathway Explained

To become a licensed special education teacher in Minnesota, candidates must:

1. Complete a state-approved teacher preparation program.
2. Pass required Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations.
3. Apply for licensure through PELSB.

Both Winona institutions design coursework and clinical experiences to meet Tier 3 or Tier 4 licensure requirements. Programs also prepare candidates in:

• Individualized Education Program development
• Inclusive classroom strategies
• Functional behavior assessments
• Collaboration with families and interdisciplinary teams

Graduates who already hold a teaching license can pursue additional endorsements to expand their qualifications and salary lanes.

Field Experience and Real-World Preparation

Hands-on learning differentiates top-tier programs from average ones. Both WSU and Saint Mary’s embed multiple practicum experiences before student teaching.

Students work directly with K-12 learners across disability categories, including:

• Mild to Moderate Learning Disabilities
• Emotional Behavioral Disorders
• Developmental and Cognitive Disabilities

District partnerships in Southeast Minnesota provide diverse classroom settings, which strengthens job placement after graduation.

Career Outcomes and Job Demand

Minnesota continues to report shortages in special education. According to state workforce data from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, special education remains a high-demand teaching field.

Graduates commonly pursue roles such as:

• Special Education Teacher (K-12)
• Academic Behavioral Strategist
• IEP Case Manager
• Instructional Coach
• Special Education Director after advanced study

Master’s degree holders often qualify for higher salary lanes and leadership positions within districts.

How to Choose the Right Program for You

Choosing between Winona State and Saint Mary’s depends on your personal and professional situation.

Choose Winona State University if you:

• Are a first-time undergraduate student
• Want lower in-state tuition
• Prefer a traditional campus-based experience

Choose Saint Mary’s University if you:

• Are a working educator seeking an advanced degree
• Need flexible or online coursework
• Value smaller class environments with individualized advising

Both institutions provide strong licensure preparation, respected credentials, and meaningful classroom experience. The right choice ultimately depends on budget, flexibility needs, and long-term career goals in Minnesota special education.

Frequently Asked Questions about Special Education Degrees in Winona, Minnesota

Can I become a licensed special education teacher in Minnesota by studying in Winona?

Yes. Both Winona State University and Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offer state-approved teacher preparation programs that meet Minnesota PELSB requirements for special education licensure, including Tier 3 and Tier 4 pathways.

What types of special education programs are available in Winona?

You can choose from bachelor’s degrees with licensure, master’s degrees in special education, Academic Behavioral Strategist (ABS) licensure, and developmental disabilities endorsements. Both schools align their programs with Minnesota standards set by PELSB.

Are special education teachers in Minnesota in demand and well paid?

Yes. Minnesota lists special education as a high-demand field, and state workforce data from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development show steady need. Nationally, special education teachers earn a median salary above $62,000 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with many Minnesota districts offering competitive pay and incentives.

How much will a special education degree in Winona cost?

Winona State University, as a public school, usually has lower in-state tuition, while Saint Mary’s reflects private university pricing. You should review current rates on the Winona State tuition page and the Saint Mary’s financial aid page, and consider federal options on Federal Student Aid.

What is the difference between Winona State and Saint Mary’s for special education?

Winona State is a public university that works well if you want a traditional, campus-based experience and in-state tuition. Saint Mary’s is a private university that focuses more on flexible, online, and hybrid options, which can fit better if you are working or changing careers.