Find out more about Minnesota State University-Mankato

If you do not currently hold a bachelor’s degree in communications, but want to enhance your written and oral skills from a technical perspective, consider this Technical Communication online certificate. At MSU-Mankato, current industry practices drive this curriculum. There are opportunities to tailor the majority of your coursework to fit your professional interests, through classes such as:

• Research & Writing Technical Reports
• Proposals
• Usability
• Desktop Publishing

The Teaching Writing Graduate Certificate at Minnesota State University-Mankato is ideal for prospective and current teachers who wish to gain expertise in teaching writing. Individuals who are or wish to be teachers in middle schools, high schools, or two/four-year colleges will benefit from expanding their knowledge and skills in this area, whether they focus primarily on writing in their career or as a secondary interest.

Enhance your current professional skill set with this online graduate certificate in Technical Communication. At MSU-Mankato, this program is designed for practicing communications experts who already hold a related undergraduate degree. Current industry practice drives the curriculum which also delves into theory and research. You can tailor this program with electives that fit your career objectives, such as:

• Project Management in Technical Communication
• Desktop Publishing
• Technical Documentation, Policies & Procedures

Through MNSU’s Extended Education, you can earn an MA in English entirely online.  Grounded in theory, teaching college-level literature, broad surveys and also more specialized coursework, students will continue to strengthen their foundation in American, British and World literature. The program is ideal for working adults with the flexibility of online learning.  However, because discussion in integral in graduate coursework, virtual meetings are held in synchrony with other students.

MSU-Mankato offers this online MA in English that specializes in technology. Writing takes on a whole new level, when the target audience is reading from a technical standpoint. It takes a different approach to communication. This advanced degree will give you the skills and insight to successfully produce pieces in, around, and for tech-savvy audiences, serve as a technical editor or teach, with electives such as:

• Visual Technical Communication
• International Technical Communication
• Usability
• Desktop Publishing

Begin an exciting career in the business world with this Bachelor of Business Administration online degree.  As a degree completion program, this is ideal for someone with an AS in Business, but if you are new to college or have credits in another field, faculty work to ensure your course load meets your goals.  The flexibility of online learning with an asynchronous program allows you to study when and where it is convenient, studying on your own schedule.  

Expert faculty help students expand business skills, gain confidence as leaders, and work to achieve career goals.  Topics covered include:

• Management
• Marketing
• Finance
• Communications

Learn to understand business models and to apply organizational and management processes.

Working adults who wish to use their existing credits to earn a degree may be interested in this organizational leadership degree online.  Improve communication, critical analysis, and organizational leadership skills while working to advance your career.  With an Applied Leadership degree, you gain skills that can adapt to many businesses’ needs, including careers in software development, healthcare organizations, manufacturing, and even government.  Learn to:

• Lead organizations
• Work in virtual teams
• Communicate effectively in global society
• Become a change agent

This is a flexible program in both scheduling and the curriculum.  Study when and where it is convenient, on your own schedule.  Plus, you choose courses that fit your personal and career goals.

Study great leaders in history while preparing to become a great leader with the Graduate Certificate in Business Leadership, an online organizational leadership degree.  Focus is on understanding and practicing skills critical to effective performance as a leader in any organization.  Learn to:

• Employ effective communication strategies
• Apply techniques to effectively manage group and individual dynamics
• Practice and promote innovations
• Develop successful negotiation tactics

While studying, you have the opportunity to network and interact with leaders in the region and to also examine your own leadership skills and abilities.  Upon completion of this certificate, students may continue in the MBA program.

Advance your career with the Graduate Certificate in Professional Communication, an online communications degree.  This program prepares students for careers in a variety of settings, including the corporate and nonprofit sectors, and in government.  Learn to create and adapt strategic messages in professional settings.  Courses draw from:

• Communication Studies
• Mass Media
• Technical Communication

Plus, the flexibility of this online communications degree allows you to successfully balance your education with other responsibilities.

Complete the education needed to sit for the CPA exam with this Master of Accounting degree online.  With this knowledge and skills learned, students are ready for successful careers in public and private accounting.  Learn to apply technical accounting knowledge to various business situations and develop analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills.  All areas of accounting are covered, including:

• Tax
• Audit
• Financial
• IT
• Data Analytics

While completing this program that will lead to advancement in your career, the flexibility of an online accounting degree allows you to continue your current career.  Study when and where it is convenient with courses offered by both synchronous and asynchronous delivery methods.

Enhance your future with this Master of Business Administration online degree.  Designed for working adults, the curriculum is flexible, allowing students to build a schedule around their lives, instead of building a life around a school schedule.  

The foundation of this program is integrative, critical, and analytical thinking.  Using real-world applications, students learn managerial skills, ethics, and leadership, as well as the tools needed for success in a global business economy.  Topics covered include:

• Accounting
• Human Resources
• Marketing
• Information Technology
• Data Analysis

Advance your career with the Master of Fine Arts in Forensics & Communication degree online.  This degree is pursued by those interested in the study of forensics, which is a speech and debate program.  Graduates are prepared for careers coaching or teaching in an academic environment.  You will also be ready for a career using public speaking, training and development, and public service skills.  Study such topics as:

• Performance Studies
• Interpersonal/Intercultural Communication
• Organizational/Conflict Communication
• Rhetoric

Advance your career with the Master of Science in Communication Studies, an online communications degree.  This degree serves as a foundation for success in numerous careers, preparing students to efficiently and effectively navigate the constantly-changing digital world.  Courses in this integrated and multidisciplinary curriculum cover such topics as:

• Communication theory
• Research methods
• Organizational communication
• Conflict management
• Culture and relationships

Gain skills for critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership while developing global and intercultural awareness.  Graduates are ready to lead, influence, and relate to diverse communities and audiences.

Combine your love of sports with business through the Master of Science in Sports Management degree online.  This degree prepares students to plan and manage sports at the professional level, in college athletics, and many other areas.  Topics covered include:

• Promotions
• Personal and Product Liability
• Negligence and Risk Management
• Public Relations
• Public Speaking

The best way to learn and to get hired is by gaining experience, and the faculty emphasize hands-on learning and real-world experiences.  Develop real events, work with real sport businesses to develop marketing plans, complete service learning opportunities, and more, ensuring you will become a competitive sport business leader.

The online Undergraduate Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership is ideal for those who work, or wish to work, in the nonprofit sector in leadership positions by teaching students important skills and knowledge needed in managing and leading nonprofit organizations and enhancing their view and knowledge of community.  Students learn about the use of technology, fundraising, and other means of support, as well as skills in reaching out to a variety of people, through studies in sociology, urban studies, parks and leisure, recreation, and social work.  Graduates will find careers in healthcare; social services; consumer, environmental, and community organizations; and nongovernmental organizations.

This online PSM in Information Security & Risk Management from MSU-Mankato bridges the gap between IT and communication. You’ll enhance your professional knowledge with leadership and management skills to educate others within your organization, as well, in how to be aware of risks and threats to your systems. This online master’s program incorporates a capstone project, along with curriculum that usually contains:

• Reporting Information Security Risks
• Information Warfare
• Data Communications & Networking

The Autism Spectrum Disorders certificate at Minnesota State University-Mankato gives students the chance to pursue careers in the Special Education field with a focus on autism. Students will learn how to become teachers that provide the best care and education to a variety of children with disorders while gaining a broad base of skills.

The Culturally Responsive Teaching certificate at Minnesota State University-Mankato is ideal for students wishing to develop expertise in teaching students of various cultures without wishing to earn a full master’s degree. The program is aimed at current teachers who want to increase classroom performance. Students can gain leadership skills in this specific area and thus earn their certificate by taking three courses from the Educational Studies: K-12 and Secondary department.

The online Graduate Certificate in Developmental Disabilities from Minnesota State University-Mankato is for individuals seeking a teaching license, an add-on certificate, or who just want to increase their knowledge and understanding of developmental disabilities. Students work with an advisor to determine a plan of study that fits their needs. This online program emphasizes leadership skills and inclusion. 

Courses include, but are not limited to: 

• Graduate student teaching: DCD
• Methods and behavior strategies: Students with DCD
• Characteristics and assessments: Students with DCD 



Students benefit from online resources and professional faculty who are available to help. This fully online program is convenient for individuals who are balancing school, work, and other responsibilities. The online graduate certificate program in developmental disabilities enables graduates to become professional leaders in education.

The online Graduate Certificate in Early Childhood Special Education from Minnesota State University-Mankato is designed for individuals who wish to further their knowledge and skills in teaching special education students. Professional educators strive to bring new learning methods and relevant information to each class. Students work with an academic advisor to schedule classes that fit their needs.

Courses include, but are not limited to: 

• Assessment of infants and young children with developmental needs
• Collaboration with families and professionals
• Education of infants and young children with developmental needs



This fully online program is convenient for students who are balancing school, work, and other responsibilities. Graduates will have a competitive advantage in the job market. The online graduate certificate program in early childhood special education allows graduates to become compassionate professionals.

Individuals can boost career opportunities with an online Graduate Certificate in Elementary Math Pedagogy from Minnesota State University-Mankato. Through this online program, students will learn new skills and methods to bring to the classroom. Emphasis is placed on inclusion, assessment, and equity practices.

Some of the classes include:

• Differentiating for inclusive elementary math classrooms
• Formative assessment for elementary mathematics
• Equity practices in elementary mathematics

Experienced faculty bring relevant information that educators will use on the job. Students enjoy the convenience of the fully online program in regard to balancing work and school. Minnesota State’s online graduate certificate program in elementary math pedagogy puts graduates on a path to success.

The online Graduate Certificate in Learning Disabilities from Minnesota State University-Mankato is designed to give individuals a greater understanding of working with children who have learning disabilities. This online certificate program is perfect for individuals who are trying to earn a teaching license or an add-on certificate. This online program satisfies the requirements for licensure-to-practice standards for Minnesota and possibly other states. 

Courses include, but are not limited to: 

• Graduate student teaching: learning disabilities
• Advanced instructional methods for learning disabilities 
• Program foundations for students with learning and behavior problems 



Students work with an advisor to determine courses needed for MN BOT standards. Some courses may be needed from other graduate certificates in the Department of Special Education. The online graduate certificate in learning disabilities produces competent, compassionate educators ready to face challenges in the modern classroom.

Through the online Graduate Certificate in Reading from Minnesota State University-Mankato, licensed teachers can add a Minnesota Reading Teacher License. This online certificate program is also ideal for community college faculty who are interested in teaching developmental reading. Designed for working teachers, this fully online program offers convenience for busy individuals. 

Courses include, but are not limited to: 

• Preparing students to read 
• Effective reading for content areas 
• Reading assessment and diagnosis 



Starting dates are in the fall, spring, and summer. This program can be completed in one year. Highly experienced faculty bring practical, relevant lessons to each class. By obtaining the online graduate certificate in reading, graduates will be fully prepared to begin careers in reading instruction.

The online Master of Science in Educational Technology from Minnesota State University-Mankato emphasizes innovative uses of technology to support teaching and learning. This online program is for all PK-16 teachers who are seeking to improve their professional practices and technology skills. Completion of a capstone is required for this program. 

A sample of the classes included in this master’s program include: 

• Differentiation through technology 
• Social media tools
• Educational funding



Students meet with an advisor to go over courses that will meet the student’s career goals. Experienced faculty are eager to encourage students and work towards their academic success. The online master’s degree in Educational Technology allows graduates to pursue advanced opportunities in the field of education.

The online Master of Science in Elementary Education from Minnesota State University-Mankato is designed for educators who are seeking to improve their teaching skills in the field of elementary education. Students work with experienced faculty and advisors to work out a course plan that suits their career and academic needs. This program requires a capstone course to be completed.

Courses include, but are not limited to: 

• Teaching for empowered citizenship
• Analysis of research in education
• Scholarly writing



Students have access to many online resources for assistance. They will gain the necessary knowledge and practical skills to succeed in the classroom environment. By obtaining the online master’s degree in Elementary Education, graduates can pursue higher opportunities in education.

The online Master of Science in Reading from Minnesota State University-Mankato honors diversity and holds to international standards. This online program is designed for current teachers and administrators seeking further study in the most up-to-date evidence-based findings in reading instruction. This fully online, asynchronous program fits into teachers’ schedules so they can finish their education while working. Students may pursue the coursework portions of a Minnesota reading teacher license while working towards the M.S. in reading.

Classes include, but are not limited to:

• Effective reading for content areas
• Reading assessment and diagnosis
• Preparing students to read

Coursework is practical and focuses on applying concepts in the classroom. Experienced and dedicated faculty are eager to see each student succeed. By obtaining the online master’s degree in reading, graduates will be prepared for rewarding careers helping students with reading and literacy.

The online Master of Science in School Library and Information Studies from Minnesota State University-Mankato prepares students to work in libraries helping people to access information. This online program offers convenient, focused, high-quality instruction to fill a quickly growing professional need. Students are recommended for licensure after fulfilling all requirements.

Some of the courses offered include, but are not limited to:

• Information resources
• Using technology in learning environments
• 21st-century multiple literacies

Coursework focuses on applying concepts directly in the classroom. Experienced and dedicated faculty are ready to help and are committed to the success of each student. By obtaining the online master’s degree in School Library and Information Studies, graduates will be prepared for rewarding careers making a difference in students’ lives through reading and information access.

The online Master of Science in Special Education from Minnesota State University-Mankato is designed for individuals wanting to further their education and knowledge in the field of special education. Through this online program, students will develop skills in designing programs and conducting research. Students will gain further expertise in pedagogy and evidence-based research practices. 

Some of the courses include, but are not limited to: 

• Educational psychology 
• Using educational research 
• Collaboration with families and professionals 



This fully online program is convenient for individuals who are furthering their education while working and handling other responsibilities. Faculty and staff members at Minnesota State are available to assist with coursework and information access. The online master’s degree in Special Education paves the way to a successful career helping special education students to thrive academically and socially.

The online Master of Science in Teaching and Learning from Minnesota State University-Mankato is designed for teachers who wish to broaden their knowledge and enhance their classroom performance. This online degree emphasizes teaching improvement, technology integration, and leadership skills. Students may customize their degrees by choosing from a combination of courses.

A sample of course offerings include, but are not limited to:

• Scholarly writing
• Student-centered learning
• Accessing diverse partnerships to support students

There are optional content specializations such as history, psychology, family consumer science, communication education, and English. Students benefit from experienced and professional faculty. The online master’s degree program in teaching and learning enables graduates to become capable educational professionals who can make a difference in the lives of their students.

The Dental Hygiene Bachelor of Science degree at Minnesota State University-Mankato is designed for students who wish to pursue careers in the field of dental hygiene. Graduates will be able to expand and broaden their skills in order to meet the growing needs in dentistry. The curriculum will prepare students for a broad range of career opportunities in public health, education, administration, research, management, and other positions in the field.

Advance your career with the masters in health science online degree.  The curriculum focuses on health promotion and disease prevention.  Courses emphasize the skills and competencies needed for credentialing as a Certified Health Education Specialist or Master Certified Health Education Specialist.  Complete such courses as:

• Environmental health
• Emotional health and stress
• Chronic and infectious diseases
• Public health law
• Global health

Graduates may pursue careers in such settings as public health and community health agencies, health care organizations, and wellness programs.

The online RN to BSN degree completion program from Minnesota State University-Mankato limits its enrollment to maintain a high standard of instruction and personal attention, including a program advisor dedicated to helping students develop an individual plan of study based on their academic records, experience, and personal and professional responsibilities. Coursework covers topics such as:

• Holistic Nursing
• Evidence Based Practice
• Psychosocial/Inter-professional Communications
• Population Focused Care
• ​Leadership

The online Graduate Certificate in Emotional and Behavioral Disorders from Minnesota State University-Mankato is for students who are seeking further education on the subjects of emotional and behavioral disorders. This online program is also for individuals seeking a teaching license or an add-on certificate. Students work with an advisor to organize classes that meet the needs of their educational objectives. 

Some of the courses include, but are not limited to: 

• Program foundations for students with learning and behavior problems
• Emotional/Behavior disorders: Program design and implementation
• Graduate Student Teaching: E/BD



Experienced and dedicated faculty bring useful solutions to issues that educators will face on the job. Students enjoy the convenience of the online program in regards to balancing work and school life. Minnesota State’s online graduate certificate program in emotional and behavioral disorders puts graduates on a path to success in the field of education.