Minnesota State University, located in south-central Minnesota on a bluff above the Minnesota River, is a comprehensive university within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) system. Although most of the University's 13,000 students come from Minnesota, the strong academic programs and excellent faculty attract students from throughout the United States and more than 60 foreign countries.
Minnesota State University's history began in 1867, when attorney Daniel Buck persuaded the Minnesota Legislature to authorize the city of Mankato to sell bonds for the $5,000 required to open the state's second normal (teacher-training) school. He promised Mankato citizens that if they would support the school, untold benefits would be repaid "tenfold for every dollar invested."
Mankato Normal School opened in 1868 in downtown Mankato with 27 students. Tuition was free in return for a pledge to teach two years in Minnesota's schools. Old Main was constructed in 1870, beginning the Valley Campus that would serve the institution for over a century. In the 1880s and 1890s, the school expanded and its curriculum grew. In 1921, the school became Mankato State Teachers College, and in 1927, the institution awarded its first four-year degree, a bachelor of education.
In the late 1950s, Mankato State Teachers College was renamed Mankato State College to reflect its expanded curriculum. The college was quickly outgrowing its Valley Campus and construction was begun on the 300-acre Highland Campus.
In 1975, the college received full university status. Four years later, with completion of the Earle J. Wigley Administration Building, consolidation on the Highland Campus was complete. In September of 1998, in recognition of the University's expanded role in the state and region, Mankato State University became Minnesota State University, Mankato. Visitors to Mankato can still find the Valley campus buildings, many of which have been beautifully restored or renovated for other uses.
Today, the University community enjoys a spacious, thoroughly modern campus, featuring residential living for nearly 3,000 students, beautifully landscaped lawns and gardens, an arboretum, and a grand mall where students gather to meet or just relax. A favorite place to study in the fall and spring is alongside the fountain, a highlight of the central campus. Enclosed passageways connect most academic buildings, and the campus is easily accessible to students with physical disabilities.
Now, more than 125 years since its founding, Minnesota State University, Mankato continues to look toward the future, fulfilling Daniel Buck's promise of "tenfold benefits" to the city of Mankato, southern Minnesota, the state, and the region. The University has more than 13,000 students, approximately 1,300 faculty and staff, and more than 90,000 alumni worldwide.
The academic life of the University is organized into seven colleges–Allied Health and Nursing; Arts and Humanities; Business; Education; Science, Engineering and Technology; Social and Behavioral Sciences; and Graduate Studies and Research. MSU offers over 120 undergraduate liberal arts and professional degrees to meet the needs of students who will shape American society well into the twenty-first century. The University offers six baccalaureate degrees, six master's degrees, a specialist's degree and other advanced programs, two associate degrees for two-year programs, several pre-professional programs of study, and several certifificate programs.
Minnesota State University promotes learning through effective undergraduate and graduate teaching, scholarship, and research in service to the state, the region and the global community.
To realize this mission statement, MSU will have met the following goals for excellence through the actions of and evaluation by appropriate units:
Minnesota State University is reviewed for accreditation every 10 years by the North Central Association of College and Secondary Schools. In addition, individual programs undergo periodic reviews, generally every five years. Some professional associations also accredit specific programs. The following accreditations have been awarded to Minnesota State University.
The activities of the University are administered in accordance with a variety of federal and state laws, MnSCU Board policies, assorted rules and regulations, and staff and student rights and responsibilities. Individuals may consult the following University publications for detailed descriptions of applicable policies and procedures: "The Basic Stuff," "The Faculty and Staff Handbook," MnSCU Manual of Policies and Procedures, among others. For more information concerning applicable University policy, contact the office of Vice President for Academic Affairs or visit the University Policies and Procedures page.
The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. They are:
Nondiscrimination in Employment and Education Opportunity. Minnesota State University is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment and education opportunity. No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices, or access to and participation in programs, services, and activities with regard to race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, or membership or activity in a local commission as defined by law.
Discrimination because of race, sex, or disability is prohibited by state and federal law. Discrimination because of sexual orientation is prohibited by state law. Discrimination is defined as conduct that is directed at an individual because of his/her race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, mental/physical disability or that of his/her partner and which subjects the individual to different treatment by agents or employees so as to interfere with or limit the ability of the individual to participate in, or benefit from, the services, activities, or privileges provided by the university or otherwise adversely affects the individual's employment or education.
Harassment because of race, sex, or disability is a form of discrimination prohibited by state and federal law. Harassment because of sexual orientation is prohibited by state law. Harassment is defined as verbal or physical conduct that is directed at an individual because of his/her race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, or disability or that of his/her partner and that is sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent so as to have the purpose or effect of creating a hostile work or educational environment. Harassment may occur in a variety of relationships, including faculty and student, supervisor and employee, student and student, staff and student, employee and employee, and other relationships with other persons having business at or visiting the educational environment.
Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical conduct and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment may occur when it is directed at members of the opposite sex or when it is directed at members of the same sex.
Acts of sexual violence are criminal behaviors and create an environment contrary to the goals and missions of Minnesota State University. These acts will be investigated and may subject an individual to complaints and disciplinary sanctions as well as possible referral to appropriate law enforcement agencies.
Inquiries regarding compliance should be referred to the Office of Affirmative Action, 112 Armstrong Hall, or at 507-389-2986 (V) or 1-800-627-3529 or 711 (MRS/TTY).
Student Records Policy. Federal law and state statute allow current and former students access to their education records. While the primary record is located in the Office of the Registrar, other records may be located in Admissions, Financial Aid, Business Affairs, Career Development Center, Student Health Service, Student Affairs, Graduate Studies, Office of International Students and academic departments.
Minnesota State University has designated the following items as Directory Information. As such, this information may be released to the public without the consent of the student: name, date and place of birth, local and permanent address, major field of study, local and permanent telephone number, dates of attendance, previous college/university attended, degrees received, e-mail address, awards and honors, height and weight information for athletic participation, performance records and participation in competitive events, and participation in officially recognized activities, sports and organizations. Students may request that directory information be kept private by contacting the Office of the Registrar, 132 Wigley Administration Center.
Copies of the complete Student Records Policy (PDF) may be obtained online.
Equity In Athletics Disclosure Act 1994. U.S. Department of Education guidelines now require post-secondary institutions participating in federal student aid programs to publish annual reports on gender equity in intercollegiate sports. In compliance with the EADA, Minnesota State University prepared its first Equity Act report by October 1, 1996. Updated reports are released by October 15 of each subsequent year. Included is data on the amount of money spent on men's and women's teams and recruiting efforts, participation rates, personnel and operating expenses, revenues generated, and sports related financial aid allocations. The report is readily accessible to students, prospective students and the public. Contact the Office of Student Affairs, 228 Wigley Administration Center, 507-389-2121.
Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act 1995. The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act increased the level of information universities must collect and provide to current and prospective students and employees and to the Department of Education. The first part of the act, entitled the Student Right-to-Know Act, requires colleges and universities to compile and release institution-wide graduation rates for all students, with more detailed statistical information submitted on the graduation rates of athletes. The graduation rate for Minnesota State University, Mankato, new entering freshman, fall term 1995 cohort, is 44 percent. This percentage reflects the number of first time, full-time four-year degree seeking students either who received a baccalaureate degree within six years or an associate degree within three years. The 1995 cohort is the most recent one for which a six year graduation rate is available.
Part II of the act, entitled the Campus Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990, requires colleges and universities to annually make available to all current employees and students as well as to applicants for enrollment or employment the following information: 1) a description of policies concerning the security of and access to all campus facilities; policies and procedures for reporting campus crime; and policies concerning law enforcement along with crime prevention educational programs relating to campus security, and 2) statistics concerning the occurrence of certain categories of campus crimes. Institutions are also required to issue timely warnings to the campus community about criminal activities representing a continued safety threat to aid in crime prevention. In addition, the University complies with the 1998 Higher Education Amendments Act that amended the Campus Security Act by expanding the geographic scope and categories of offenses that must be included in the annual statistics. This information is available to Minnesota State's "Partners in Safety" brochure, which is made available to each enrolled student and employee annually. Copies are available from the Security Department, 222 Wiecking Center, 389-2111, the Women's Center, 246 Centennial Student Union, 389-6146, First Year Experience, 10 Gage Complex, 389-5489, and Human Resources, 325 Wigley Administration Center, 389-2015. The brochure is also available at Partner's in Safety page.
Minnesota State University offers programs leading to two associate degrees, baccalaureate degrees, six master's degrees and four specialist degrees. (The Graduate Studies Bulletin contains complete information regarding graduate degree programs.) MSU also offers several non-degree programs, some leading to certification and others as preparation for further study at specialized professional schools.
Please note that for any degree program, completion of a major and a minor in the same discipline is not permitted. Usually a minor is not required if two or more majors are completed on the same degree. Some majors do require specific minors to be completed.
The baccalaureate degrees available are Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Music (B.Mus.), Bachelor of Science (BS). Students seeking teacher licensure pursue a Bachelor of Science degree. These degrees are generally based upon four years of study and require satisfactory completion of 128 credits.
Bachelor of Arts (BA). The Bachelor of Arts degree emphasizes both breadth and depth in its curriculum. In addition to the general education credits required for the B.S. degree, B.A. candidates must complete one total elementary or intermediate sequence in a single foreign language, unless exempted by the Department of Modern Language. This brings the total number of credits required for general education to 52. Students exempted from foreign language study must substitute elective credits in place of the language requirements; they are still accountable for 52 general education credits.
BA candidates usually complete a major not exceeding 40 semester credits and a minor not exceeding 20 semester credits, plus general education and elective credits. Certain broad majors which exceed 47 semester credits do not require the completion of a minor.
BA candidates who wish to qualify as secondary school teachers may do so by completing the requirements for the Bachelor of Science (teaching) plus the professional education and other secondary teaching requirements described in the Bachelor of Science program for licensure. Students will then earn a Bachelor of Science (teaching) in addition to, or instead of the Bachelor of Arts. They may alternatively choose to complete the Master of Arts in Teaching degree described in the MSU Graduate Bulletin.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). The Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program is designed for students who desire a professional career in art. The art major for the BFA program has been designated as a broad major and, therefore, does not require the completion of a minor.
Bachelor of Music (B.Mus.). The Bachelor of Music degree program is designed for students who aspire toward a professional career in music. The music major for the B.Mus. degree has been designated as a broad major and, therefore, does not require the completion of a minor. Keyboard and vocal majors seeking the B.Mus. degree should complete 8 semester credits for elementary or intermediate sequence foreign language coursework as part of the degree requirements.
Bachelor of Science (BS). The Bachelor of Science degree emphasizes professional or technical preparation. BS candidates usually complete a major not exceeding 40 semester credits and a minor not exceeding 20 semester credits, plus general education and elective credits. Certain broad majors which exceed 47 semester credits do not require the completion of a minor.
Teacher Licensure. Students seeking teacher licensure must also complete the professional education requirements, which include student teaching.
Minors. All approved minors may be used with most undergraduate baccalaureate majors. Some majors may require specific minors.
This Associate of Arts (AA) degree is intended for those students who wish to pursue a two-year balanced program of liberal education.
Students should complete the general education requirements for the BS degree, plus 20 credits of lower division electives for a total of 64 semester credits.
Associate of Arts (AA). The Associate of Arts (AA) degree can be earned through the liberal studies program.
Pre-Professional Programs. The purpose of the pre-professional program is to provide students with the intellectual and academic background they will need before continuing their education at other institutions. Acceptance to professional educational institutions is usually contingent upon academic performance; therefore, students enrolling in pre-professional programs should be highly motivated and realize they are expected to maintain high standards of excellence.
Certificate and Non-Teaching Licensure Programs. These programs provide evidence of specialized study and expertise in given fields such as dental assisting, gerontology, non-profit leadership, and nursing home administration.
A certificate is awarded to students who satisfactorily complete a prescribed course of study and/or a qualifying examination. Program descriptions, with specific requirements, are given under departmental headings.
The College of Allied Health and Nursing is dedicated to promoting wellness and improving quality of life through education, scholarship and service to the state, region, and global community.
Students majoring in an area of study in the College of Allied Health and Nursing have an advisor assigned to them from their area of interest. Questions and concerns pertaining to advising and the assignment of advisors can be answered by the student relations coordinator, Mark Schuck, 135 Myers Field House, 507-389-5486. Advising information about nursing is found under School of Nursing.
*These students are not necessarily admitted to the program but have declared as their major a program within the College of Allied Health and Nursing.
Admission to majors in the College of Allied Health and Nursing is granted by the academic department or school in which the student proposes to major.
Bachelor of Science: Alcohol and Drug Studies, Athletic Training*, Communication Disorders*, Dental Hygiene*, Family Consumer Science (Dietetics, Family Life & Child Development, Food & Nutrition, Housing and Consumer), Health Science: Community Health*, Nursing*, Physical Education* (General, Exercise Science, Sports Management), Recreation, Parks & Leisure Services (Leisure Planning and Management, Resource Management, Therapeutic Recreation)*
Bachelor of Science (Teaching): Family Consumer Science Education*, Health Science: School Health (5-12)*, Physical Education (K-12)*
Minors: Alcohol and Drug Studies, Community Health, Corporate & Community Fitness/Wellness, Family Consumer Science, Physical Education, Recreation.
Teaching Minors: Athletic Coaching (no licensure available), Developmental/Adapted Physical Education #
* Minor not necessary for completion of degree requirements.
# Licensure only when accompanied by a physical education teaching major.
In addition, the College coordinates two pre-professional programs: Pre-Physical Therapy and Pre-Occupational Therapy.
124 Myers Field House
Phone: 507-389-6315
Fax: 507-389-6447
The College of Arts and Humanities cultivates the appreciation and practice of forms of creative, intellectual, and cultural expression, the understanding of values and issues raised by those forms of expression, and the ability to think critically and to communicate effectively.
In order to realize its mission, the College has set the following goals:
Students majoring in an area of study in the College of Arts and Humanities have an advisor from their area of interest assigned to them. Questions and concerns pertaining to the major, to advising and to the assignment of advisors will be answered for students in the department office of the major. General questions can be answered by the student relations coordinator, Sara Granberg-Rademacker, 226 Armstrong Hall, 507-389-1770.
Admission to Major: Admission to majors in the College of Arts and Humanities is granted by the academic department in which the student proposes to major.
Bachelor of Fine Arts. Art*
Bachelor of Arts. Art (History, Studio), English (Literature, Creative Writing, General), French, German, Humanities•, Mass Communications (Media Studies, Journalism, Public Relations), Music, Philosophy, Scandinavian Studies, Spanish, Speech Communication, Theatre Arts
Bachelor of Music. Music (Organ, Piano, Voice or Instrumental)
Bachelor of Science. French, German, Mass Communications (Media Studies, Journalism, Public Relations), Music Industry, Open Studies,* Philosophy, Spanish, Speech, Technical Communication/Communication, Theatre Arts*
Bachelor of Science (Teaching). Art(K-12)*, English/Speech: English Concentration*, French*, Music Education (Vocal/General K-12*, Instrumental/General K-12*), Spanish*, English/Speech: Speech Concentration*, Dance/Theatre*
* Minor not necessary for completion of degree requirements. • Requires a second major or two minors.
Associate of Arts Degree. Liberal Studies
Minors. Art (History, Studio), Dance, English (General, Creative Writing, Linguistics, Technical Communication), French, German, Humanities, Interdisciplinary Minor in Communications, Music, Philosophy, Scandinavian Studies, Spanish, Speech Communication, Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), Theatre Arts.
Teaching Minors. Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
Certificates. Certificate in Technical Communication
Special Artistic and Cultural Events. Through its departments, the College of Arts and Humanities offers special programs for students and the public. These include performances in the E. J. Halling Recital Hall and Ted Paul Andreas Theatres, the Good Thunder Reading Series and other readings by creative writers, exhibitions at the Conkling Art Gallery, and many other cultural activities.
226 Armstrong Hall
Phone: 507-389-1712
Fax: 507-389-5887
Web site: College of Arts and Humanities
Our mission is to educate undergraduate students to be successful and responsible business leaders dedicated to pursuing excellence. Our high-quality business programs primarily focus on meeting the educational needs of Minnesota students, with a secondary focus on meeting the needs of students from the region. We partner with business to provide our programs in a technologically-advanced, active learning environment.
Our faculty, students and external partners work together in an environment of mutual respect and continuous professional development. The College encourages diversity of thought, exploration of technology, intellectual discovery, and contributions to the improvement of our global society. We pursue excellence in teaching, and engage high quality research and service to support our teaching. Although we value basic research, our intellectual contributions focus principally on applied research and instructional development which enhance the learning process and improve business practice. Our service facilitates management of the college and university, supports extracurricular activities, contributes to our business disciplines through the scholarly review and editorial process, and builds business partnerships to enrich student learning.
General Effectiveness Skills:
Business Core Competencies:
The purpose of the Information Technology Initiative is to put computer technology into the hands of all College of Business (COB) students. Its mission is to provide education to students in a technologically-advanced active-learning environment. The Initiative is designed to provide students with industry applications of information technology that makes them better prepared and more marketable to prospective employers.
Each course and each professor will require different applications of notebook technology. Some courses will use notebooks intensively in class while others will rely more on out-of class applications. Students should not expect to use their notebook computer every day in every class. The common thread throughout the curriculum will be that professors will know all of their students have the appropriate technology to meet course objectives at all times.
Students may order the COB notebook on the COB web site then click on the icon labeled "I.T. Initiative.") or by visiting the Campus Computer Store. The model/price will vary by semester/year. In addition to the initial cost of the COB laptop, a $125 program fee is paid each semester the student enrolls in notebook courses. The fee covers technical services/support, unlimited printing on private COB printers, site licenses for software, the wireless infrastructure, electronic resources, and related program costs.
Students will initially receive their advising from the professional advisors in the College of Business Advising Center. When a student applies to the College of Business, they will be assigned a faculty advisor in the major area of study. Questions regarding the assignment of advisors can be answered by the College of Business Advising Center, 151 Morris Hall, 507-389-2963.
College of Business students who have earned a cumulative GPA of less than 2.0 and/or a rate of satisfactory course completion less than 67% will be placed on academic probation, notification of which will appear on the official transcript. The College of Business procedure for probation is:
Admission to the College of Business typically occurs at the beginning of the student's junior year. Once admitted, the student may choose to pursue a degree in one or more of the following majors: Accounting, Finance, International Business, Management, or Marketing. Multiple criteria will be considered for admission to the College of Business. Admission is competitive; meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Deadlines for application are: October 1 for Spring Semester and March 1 for Fall Semester.
Students must have been admitted to the College of Business to be awarded a degree from the College of Business. Students not admitted to the College of Business may take up to 24 credits within the College of Business.
Bachelor of Science. Accounting*, Finance*, International Business*, Management (General Management, Human Resource Management, Management Information Systems)*, Marketing*
* Minor not necessary for completion of degree requirements.
Minors. Accounting, Business Administration, Business Law, Human Resource Management, International Business, Management, Marketing, Financial Planning
All business majors are comprehensive and no minors are required. The majors' requirements include: 1) the business foundation requirements; 2) the specific requirements for each program; and 3) successful completion of Second Year Experience.
Transfer students must complete a minimum of 30 resident credits at the upper division (300-400) in the College of Business.
Students must earn a minimum grade-point average of 2.0 (C) on the total courses taken in the College of Business and a 2.25 overall GPA to meet graduation requirements.
The purpose is to focus students on their academic and co-curricular professional development activities for completion of their business education at MSU. Orientation sessions are required of all students for admission to the College of Business. Transfer students with AA degrees take the sessions their first semester at MSU.
The College of Business offers each student the opportunity to participate in business and industrial organizations through intern programs. Internships are available during the junior or senior year in all departments. Students interested in internships should interview early with the internship coordinator for their department to enroll in this program.
There are nine student organizations in the College. They offer activities (speakers, workshops, company visits, fund-raisers, etc.) to help students prepare for business careers upon leaving Minnesota State University.
120 Morris Hall
Phone: 507-389-5420
Fax: 507-389-5497
The College of Education seeks to prepare and develop professional educators. In so doing, our intent is to directly and indirectly increase the success of children, families, and communities. This work is completed through courses, programs, professional development, services, and scholarship.
The mission of the College of Education is to prepare principled professional practitioners who thrive and succeed in diverse environments, promote collaborative and generative communities, and engage in life-long learning.
Students majoring in Aviation, Business Education, Development Cognitive Disabilities, Early Childhood and Elementary Education have an advisor from their area of interest assigned to them. Questions and concerns pertaining to advising and the assignment of advisors can be answered by Cheryl Kalakian, College of Education Academic Advising Office, 117 Armstrong Hall, 507-389-1215.
Admission to the major is granted when the Coordinator: Cheryl Kalakian, 117 Armstrong Hall following requirements have been met:
Coordinator: Cheryl Kalakian, 117 Armstrong Hall
All students working toward a teaching degree need to be admitted to professional education prior to enrollment in professional education coursework. The Office of Academic Advising oversees this admission process.
A multifaceted Professional Education application process exists which includes minimum credit completion, a cumulative GPA requirement, completion of Praxis I: Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST), completion of surveys of knowledge, skills, and dispositions, a writing assessment, and faculty review.
Students are required to attend a Professional Education Application Process session. Application deadlines must be adhered to for consideration for the upcoming semester's coursework enrollment. Please consult the Office of Academic Advising, 117 Armstrong Hall, for such dates. Applications are available in 117 Armstrong Hall.
Refer to the Developmental Cognitive Disabilities (ESSP), Early Childhood and Elementary Education (EEC) or K-12 and Secondary Programs (KSP) sections for specific admission criteria.
The Minnesota Board of Teaching requires all candidates to provide evidence of having taken the PPST prior to enrolling in upper division coursework in the professional education sequence. Candidates who fail to achieve the minimum score on one or more of the examinations may enroll in upper division coursework in the professional education sequence; however, candidates must achieve passing scores prior to recommendation for an initial teaching license. Please consult the Academic Advising Office or the MSU Counseling Center for test dates.
Bachelor of Science. Aviation, Developmental Cognitive Disabilities, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education
Minors. Aviation Management, Military Science
Teacher Education Degree Requirements - GeneralAll students who wish to teach must fulfill the general education requirements for the BS (teacher licensure) degree. Students are advised that some of the required coursework for the major is included within general education offerings.
Developmental and Cognitive Disabilities Degree. Students wanting to teach in developmental disabilities should complete a major in developmental and cognitive disabilities (K-12) through the Department of Special Populations. For more information, see program description under Developmental and Cognitive Disabilities.
Early Childhood Education Degree. Students who want to teach in early childhood should complete a major in early childhood education (birth through grade 3) through the Department of Elementary and Early Childhood. For more information, see program description under Early Childhood Education.
Elementary Education Degree. Students wanting to teach at the elementary level should complete a major in elementary education (K-6 with specialty at each option) through the Department of Elementary and Early Childhood. For more information, see program description under Elementary Education.
Secondary Education Degree. Students who want to teach in content teaching fields must select an approved teaching major. In addition to a teaching major, students must complete professional education coursework as described in the Secondary 5-12 and K-12 Professional Education section.
Requirements related to teaching majors or professional education coursework are subject to change as new rules governing program approval are adopted by the Board of Teaching.
Student Teaching. All students are required to complete a student teaching experience in the licensure field and at the licensure level for which they are to be recommended for licensure. For further requirements, please see the Elementary and Secondary/K-12 sections.
Degree. To be eligible for Minnesota State University, Mankato's recommendation for an initial license, an undergraduate student must complete a BS (teaching) Degree.
Transfer students wanting to earn a B.S. (teaching) degree from Minnesota State University are required to complete a minimum of 30 MSU semester credits. A program evaluation of prior academic coursework as well as a minimum of six semester credits of student teaching at Minnesota State University is required for initial teacher licensure.
Gail Orcutt, Licensure Coordinator
118 Armstrong Hall; 507-389-1216
The University recommends candidates for licensure to a state upon the satisfactory completion of a licensure program. However, licensure does not occur automatically through graduation and the awarding of a diploma. Students need to make application for a Minnesota teaching license at the close of the term in which they graduate. The College of Education, 118 Armstrong Hall, coordinates the licensure process. In addition to meeting all program requirements, the Praxis I (PPST) examination of skills in reading, writing and mathematics needs to be successfully completed, as well as the Praxis II pedagogy and/or content examination. Minnesota State Law requires that all candidates applying for initial licensure in this state be fingerprinted for national background checks. A conduct review statement will also need to be completed and signed. There is a $26 fee for the criminal background check. The fee for the issuance of a State of Minnesota teaching license is $57.
The Children's House of Minnesota State University is a model teacher education facility for prospective and in-service teachers of Early Childhood Education, Family Life and Child Development, and Elementary Education Majors with a Pre-primary emphasis. With its spacious facilities, state of the art equipment and optimum pre-kindergarten child enrollment of 90, The Children's House provides the setting and the subjects for fostering creative and comprehensive teacher education. The early learning setting meets the educational and individual needs of children ages six weeks through six years who may be enrolled full time or part time in the program.
118 Armstrong Hall
Phone: 507-389-5445
Fax: 507-389-2566
The College of Science, Engineering and Technology offers a broad range of programs for students interested in the sciences, engineering and technology. Students have a variety of career opportunities in the areas of industry, research, teaching, government, and professional or graduate school.
Students majoring in an area of study in the College of Science, Engineering and Technology are assigned to a faculty advisor at the time they declare their major. Students are urged to declare their major and have an appropriate advisor assigned as soon as they have identified their majors.
Advisors assist students by helping them to plan their coursework; monitoring their academic progress; exploring career opportunities related to their major; and learning about curriculum changes, internships, scholarships, campus resources and undergraduate research options. Students are encouraged to develop and maintain a quality working relationship with their academic advisor.
General questions and concerns about academic advising may be addressed by Angie Bomier, Student Relations Coordinator, 125 Trafton Science Center, 507-389-1521.
Student Academic Advising Center. The Academic Advising Center for the College of Science, Engineering and Technology offers advising support services for all students enrolled in College programs of study. Services of the Advising Center include:
The Academic Advising Center also offers information concerning:
The Advising Center is located in 125 Trafton Science Center. Students may access services by calling 389-1521, by visiting during office hours, or by arranging appointments at their convenience.
Among the most important goals of this probationary policy are those which encourage good planning, utilization of campus resources, support for the student's achievement in current courses, and development of an effective relationship with the student's academic advisor. These goals require time and thoughtful consideration. To support these goals, students must complete the process outlined no later than the first day of classes for the next semester.
Requirements for admission to upper level classes in the majors vary, and are described in each of the department sections of this catalog. Application forms and information are available in the College Academic Advising Center, 125 Trafton Science Center.
Bachelor of Arts. Astronomy, Biology, Biochemistry ++, Chemistry, Earth Science ++, Mathematics, Physics
Bachelor of Science. Astronomy ++, Automotive Engineering Technology ++, Biochemistry ++, Biology (Bio-Business, Cytotechnology, Ecology, General, Human Biology, Microbiology, Physiology, Plant Science, Toxicology, Zoology), Biotechnology ++, Chemistry, Civil Engineering**, Clinical Laboratory Sciences/Medical Technology ++, Computer Engineering ++, Computer Engineering Technology, Computer Science (General, Computer and Information Sciences), Electrical Engineering**, Electronic Engineering Technology ++, Environmental Sciences *, Food Science Technology, Construction Management (Construction Management, Facilities Planning and Management, Management Information Systems, Manufacturing Engineering Technology ++, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering**, Physics ++
Bachelor of Science (Teaching). Chemistry (5-12) ++, Life Science (5-12) ++, Mathematics (5-12) ++, Physics (5-12) ++
Degree Codes:
* Requires a second major or two minors
** No other major or minor accepted in this degree program
++ Minor is not required for completion of degree requirements
Minors. Astronomy, Automotive Engineering Technology, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Computer Information Science, Computer Technology, Earth Science, Electronic Engineering Technology, Environmental Sciences, Geology, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics. Computer Science majors may not minor in Computer Science, Computer Information Science or Computer Technology.
See the Astronomy section for a detailed description of the observatory facilities at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
The College is actively involved in partnerships with business and government agencies. These relationships are mutually beneficial for students and the associated partners. Students receive experience on up-to-date equipment/software and in "real-world" applications. Such experiences help provide students with background in their major fields, linking theoretical classroom/lab preparation with day-to-day business and government applications. The business and government partners have access to a well-prepared student work force, and have an opportunity to hire graduates who have had firsthand experience on their type of equipment/software and applications.
The College coordinates four regional Science and Engineering Fairs that attract about 2,500 students annually in grades three to 12. These fairs offer an exceptional opportunity to enrich school programs at both the elementary and secondary level through encouraging independent project work, developing displays, having work judged by professional scientists and engineers, sharing similar interests with other students, competing for awards, and receiving local, national and even international recognition. For future scientists and non-scientists alike, Science and Engineering Fair work provides experience and motivation that are reflected in both personal and classroom development.
The Water Resources Center is a regional center which gathers, interprets and transfers data of environmental significance. It is closely associated with the Department of Biological Sciences, and is interdisciplinary in nature and functions to facilitate projects. To this end the Center obtains grants and contracts in the areas of regional applied and theoretical research. The Center emphasizes the involvement of students, both graduate and undergraduate, in meaningful research experiences. At present there are 12 ongoing projects involving lakes, rivers, wetlands, groundwater, land use, agriculture waste utilization and public policy.
131 Trafton Science Center N
Phone: 507-389-5998
Fax: 507-389-1095
The College of Social and Behavioral Sciences promotes the exploration, understanding, explanation and transformation of the social world. The organization of the College into distinct disciplines and departments insures diverse perspectives on the social world, its historical emergence, and its interaction with physical and ecological surroundings. While we seek to convey the specialized knowledge of our distinct disciplines to our students, we also strive to educate the whole person and to encourage our students to utilize this knowledge toward self-understanding. We seek to cultivate a broad set of intellectual abilities, including critical thinking, analytical and research skills, and clarity of oral and written expression. In addition to these broad skills, some programs within our college incorporate applied, pre-professional, and professional components.
The College of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers students a broad range of courses and programs aimed at increasing understanding of human behavior and developing skills that will be useful in a variety of people-orientated jobs and careers. Students majoring in the social and behavioral sciences may, for example, go on to graduate school, teach, do research, follow careers in public service, become part of the helping professions, serve as program administrators and planners, or follow one of many other routes to using the special perspectives and skills developed through the programs of this college. The College offers both undergraduate and graduate programs of study. In each program we commit ourselves to promoting the success of our students during their time at Minnesota State University, Mankato and in their future endeavors.
Students majoring in an area of study in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences are assigned an advisor who is a teaching faculty member within the department of their major. Students should contact the department of their major to declare the major and to be assigned an advisor. Students are encouraged to develop a quality working relationship with their advisor who may help them select classes, explore career and internship opportunities, access appropriate campus resources, and monitor their academic development. General questions and concerns about advising are addressed by Clark Johnson, Student Relations Coordinator, 114 Armstrong Hall, 507-389-5718, clark.johnson@mnsu.edu.
Advising "U" is the student resource center for the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. Located in the center of campus, Advising "U" is a good place for students to seek answers to questions they have about academics and advising in the College.
Advising "U" can help students with:
Advising "U" also serves as the home for preparing College faculty to be effective advisors. Advising "U" is located in 114 Armstrong Hall, 507-389-6306.
Students on academic probation will have a hold placed on their registration. Students are placed on academic probation when they achieve a grade point average below 2.0 and/or a cumulative course completion rate of less than 67 percent of all Minnesota State University, Mankato courses. In order to return to good academic standing and have the registration hold removed, students must meet with Social and Behavioral Sciences personnel in Advising "U" to begin the process of planning and preparing for a successful semester. Advising "U" is located in 114 Armstrong Hall.
The Mentor Connection Program in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences is a program designed to assist students in making satisfactory academic progress, which results in removal from probationary status. Participation in the Mentor Connection Program is an opportunity for students to develop skills and learn about resources that will help improve academic performance.
While participating in the Mentor Connection Program, students will:
The Mentor Connection Program is a three step process:
From the Mentor Connection Program, students can expect:
The College expects from students:
Admission to majors in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences is granted by the academic department in which the student has a major.
Bachelor of Arts. Anthropology, Earth Science*, Economics, Geography (Professional*, Standard), History, International Relations, Law Enforcement (Option I*, Option II), Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, Women's Studies
Bachelor of Science. Anthropology, Corrections, Earth Science*, Economics*, Ethnic Studies, Geography (Professional*, Standard), History, International Relations, Law Enforcement (Option I* or Option II), Political Science, Psychology, Social Studies* (Anthropology, Economics, Ethnic Studies, Geography, History, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, or Women's Studies), Social Work*, Sociology, Urban & Regional Studies, Women's Studies
Bachelor of Science (Teaching). Earth Science (5-12)*, Social Studies (Anthropology, Economics, Geography, History, Political Science, Psychology, or Sociology) (5-12)*
* Minor not necessary for completion of degree requirements.
** Requires an additional major from another discipline.
Minors. Anthropology, Corrections, Earth Science, Economics, Ethnic Studies, Geography, Gerontology, History, Latin American Studies, Law Enforcement, Political Science, Psychology, Social Welfare, Sociology, Urban & Regional Studies, Women's Studies
The Center for Applied Social Science is dedicated to promoting applied learning and research opportunities for students and faculty in service to agencies, organizations, and communities in and beyond Minnesota. Students may be involved with faculty members on sponsored projects with communities and agencies. For more information, contact Kimberly Greer, Department of Sociology and Corrections, 113 Armstrong Hall, 507-389-5612.
The Kessel Institute is dedicated to advancing the understanding and the existence of peace at all levels, from the individual to the global community. The Institute defines peace in its broadest sense, denoting not only the absence of conflict but also the interrelationship of the factors necessary to create or to enhance harmony within and among human beings and their environment. The Institute faciliate campus speeches, discussion groups, films, forums, speakers, and one-day conferences on important issues. The Institute honors the life and work of Abbas Kessel, MSU Political Science professor from 1966 to 1985. For further information, contact Barbara Carson, Department of Sociology and Corrections, 113 Armstrong Hall, 507-389-6265.
The College annually sponsors or hosts several projects of interest to secondary and/or university students. The annual Career and Agency Day provides students the opportunity to learn about career opportunities related to social and behavioral sciences. In partnership with the YMCA, the College hosts the State Convention of the Youth in Government Program. The College recognizes student achievement through Community Service Awards and nominations to Who's Who Among College and University Students. Departments within the College also recognize student excellence through scholarships and other awards.
Departments within the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences are associated with national honor societies including: Alpha Kappa Delta, International Sociology Honor Society; Alpha Phi Sigma, National Criminal Justice Honor Society; Gamma Theta Upsilon, Geography Honor Society; Omicron Delta Epsilon, International Honor Society in Economics; Phi Alpha, National Psychology Honor Society; Phi Alpha Theta, International Honor Society in History; Pi Sigma Alpha, National Political Science Honor Society; Psi Chi, National Psychology Honor Society; Sigma Xi, National Science Honor Society.
111 Armstrong Hall
Phone: 507-389-6307
Fax: 507-389-5569
Advising "U"
Phone: 507-389-6306
From Art to Women's Studies, Minnesota State University, Mankato has the most comprehensive offering of Master's programs in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. The College of Graduate Studies provides over 70 graduate degree programs in areas such as the arts and humanities, allied health and nursing, business education, social and behavioral sciences, science and technology. Almost all of our graduate faculty hold the highest degree in their respective disciplines. Many of our faculty have won teaching awards, published scholarly books, and have provided a broad range of services to our University and community.
Information on each program is available in the Graduate Bulletin.
115 Alumni Foundation Center
Phone: 507-389-2321
Fax: 507-389-5974
Website: College of Graduate Studies and Research
