Education Overview

The emphasis on education in Rochester begins with Early Childhood Family Education, a voluntary public school program for all Minnesota families with children from birth to kindergarten age. Parents Are Important in Rochester (PAIIR) has been in Rochester School districtıs early childhood family education program since 1974.

Rochester's Public School system has the sixth-largest enrollment in the state. District 535 covers a large part of Olmsted County and extends into Wabasha County. Student achievement levels are consistently above state and national averages with more than 85 percent of graduating seniors pursuing post-high school education.

Higher education plays a major role in Rochesterıs economic development and quality of life.

University Center Rochester spans undergraduate, graduate, and workforce education programs. Programs at UCR are offered by Rochester Community and Technical College, University of Minnesota-Rochester, and Winona State University­Rochester Center.

RCTC offers 70-plus programs. Rochester Community and Technical College's Continuing Education and Workforce Development division, located in the Heintz Center in Rochester, supports the continuing needs of the community and the area's workforce.

The University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR) is the newest campus of the University of Minnesota system having been formally established in December 2006. With over 35 academic programs available in Rochester, UMR provides graduate and undergraduate degrees, conducts research, and pursues outreach services focusing in the areas of health sciences and biotechnology while continuing its commitment to offer high quality academic programming in business, education, technology, public health, and social work.

Getting an expanded education in Rochester has never been easier, with more and more MBA offerings every year. Upwards of 10 colleges and universities offer instruction within the city. Some have their own campuses, while others rent classroom space in churches and other community buildings.

Mayo Clinic emphasizes the need for continuing research and education to maintain its lead in providing excellent health care, training, and innovation. As part of its mission, it provides medical education through a variety of programs.

Education & Training: K - 12 & Post Secondary Schools

Following are links to area schools:

K-12 Public Schools:
Rochester Schools
Byron Schools
Chatfield Schools
Dodge Center Schools
Dover-Eyota Schools
Pine Island Schools
Kasson-Mantorville Schools
Stewartville Schools

Rochester Private Schools:
Rochester Catholic Schools
Rochester Central Lutheran School
Resurection Lutheran School
Schaffer Academy

Post Secondary:
University Center
University of Minnesota Rochester
Cross Roads College