Elementary Education

Start Your Teaching Career with Riverland and Winona State University

Do you want to make a difference in children’s lives? Riverland’s Elementary Education AA degree gives you an affordable and supportive start on your path to becoming a teacher. Through our partnership with Winona State University, you can complete your AA at Riverland and finish your Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education online—all while staying close to home.

Why Choose This Pathway?

• Affordable Start: Save money by taking your first two years at Riverland before transferring to Winona State University.
• Learn Your Way: Choose in person, online, or interactive television courses to fit your schedule.
• Supportive Faculty: Smaller classes mean more personalized attention as you prepare for a teaching career.
• Real Classroom Experience: Gain early clinical experience in local schools so you feel confident before your full student teaching placement.
• Easy Transfer: Courses in this program are designed to transfer smoothly to Winona State’s teacher education program.

How the Pathway Works

Step 1: Complete Your AA Degree at Riverland
You’ll take general education courses and electives that prepare you for teacher education. This helps you enter Winona State’s program with junior standing.

Step 2: Finish Your BS in Elementary Education Through Winona State
Complete your bachelor’s degree online in Austin after meeting WSU’s admission requirements. This flexible format lets you stay close to home while earning a respected teaching degree.

Admission Requirements for Winona State University

To move into WSU’s Elementary Education program, you’ll need:

• A 2.75 GPA for your most recent 30 credits
• A grade of “B” or higher in ENGL 1101 or ENGL 1105
• A grade of “B” or higher in SPCH 1100
• A grade of “C” or higher in one required math course (MATH 1110 or higher, MATH 2021, or MATH 2203)
• Acceptance to Winona State University
• Completion of the Early Clinical requirement

What You’ll Learn to Do as an Elementary Teacher

• Use different teaching methods to support young learners
• Incorporate technology, activities, and hands on learning
• Create a positive, inclusive classroom environment
• Support students with diverse learning needs
• Build relationships that inspire and encourage students

Job Outlook

Teaching remains a stable and meaningful career in Minnesota. Schools across the state need qualified elementary teachers, and graduates of this pathway are well prepared to step into those roles.

Scholarships

Riverland offers scholarships to help lower the cost of your degree. Explore current scholarship opportunities and deadlines.