Minnesota State University, Mankato, also known as Minnesota State, is a public university in Mankato, Minnesota. Established as the Second State Normal School in 1858, it was designated in Mankato in 1866, and officially opened as Mankato Normal School in 1868.

The University's environment of big ideas coupled with real-world thinking equip Minnesota State Mankato students to go well beyond expectations and into exciting, rewarding futures. A growing international reputation for breakthrough research distinguishes the University, as does the unique quality of life that marks the proud community of greater Mankato.

Greater Mankato includes the communities of Mankato and North Mankato, which are located in the scenic Minnesota River valley approximately 80 miles southwest of Minneapolis-St. Paul.