Winona State University is a public university located in Winona, Minnesota. It was founded in 1858 as the First State Normal School and is the oldest member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. The university offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs across several academic colleges, including business, education, nursing and health sciences, science and engineering, and liberal arts.
Winona State University is known for its emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement. The university has a strong commitment to service and encourages students to get involved in volunteer work, internships, research projects, and other hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for the workforce and help them make a positive impact on the world.
The campus is situated in a picturesque setting overlooking the Mississippi River and offers students a range of amenities and resources, including modern academic buildings, residence halls, dining facilities, athletic facilities, and student organizations. The university’s location also provides easy access to outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, skiing, and boating.
Winona State University is a leader in online education and offers a range of flexible and convenient online programs to students who cannot attend classes on campus. The university has a strong reputation for academic excellence, affordability, and student success, and is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.

Winona State University (Wikimedia)
What about Winona State University interesting facts? Here are 30 interesting facts about Winona State University.
- Winona State University (WSU) was founded in 1858 as the First State Normal School of Minnesota.
- It is the oldest member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system.
- WSU offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs across several academic colleges.
- The university is located in Winona, Minnesota, a city with a population of around 28,000.
- WSU has a total enrollment of approximately 8,000 students.
- The university’s mascot is the Warrior and its colors are purple and white.
- WSU has a strong commitment to sustainability and was named one of the “greenest” colleges in the U.S. by The Princeton Review.
- The university has a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1.
- WSU is known for its emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement.
- The university offers a range of hands-on learning opportunities, including internships, research projects, and volunteer work.
- WSU has a strong tradition in the arts, and its theatre program is one of the best in the region.
- The university’s nursing program is highly regarded and has a 100% job placement rate.
- WSU offers a range of online programs, including a popular online MBA program.
- The university has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion and was named a “Diversity Champion” by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.
- WSU is home to the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, which features works by famous artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.
- The university’s athletic teams compete in NCAA Division II and the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference.
- WSU has won several national championships in women’s gymnastics and men’s track and field.
- The university has a strong tradition in music, and its jazz program is considered one of the best in the country.
- WSU is home to the Garvin Heights Vineyards, which produces award-winning wines using grapes grown on the university’s vineyard.
- The university has a strong commitment to community service and was named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.
- WSU offers a range of study abroad programs, including trips to countries such as Spain, Costa Rica, and China.
- The university has a strong alumni network, with graduates working in a range of fields across the country and around the world.
- WSU has a low student-to-faculty ratio, which allows for personalized attention and support from professors.
- The university’s education program is highly regarded and has produced many successful teachers and educators.
- WSU has a strong commitment to wellness and offers a range of fitness and wellness programs for students and staff.
- The university’s campus is located in a beautiful setting overlooking the Mississippi River.
- WSU has a strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented a range of green initiatives, including using renewable energy sources and reducing waste.
- The university’s honors program provides a challenging and enriching academic experience for high-achieving students.
- WSU has a strong reputation for academic excellence and is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.
- The university’s library has over 450,000 books and access to millions of online resources.
Winona State University is a public university with a rich history and strong commitment to academic excellence, sustainability, and community engagement. Its beautiful campus and personalized attention from faculty create a supportive environment for students to achieve their academic and personal goals. WSU’s emphasis on experiential learning and innovation prepares graduates for success in a rapidly changing world. Whether pursuing a degree in education, business, the arts, or any of the other programs offered, students at WSU can expect to receive a high-quality education that will prepare them for a fulfilling career and lifelong learning.