The School Library Studies program offers an online master's degree for those who wish to become teacher librarians and qualify for the K-12 teacher librarian endorsement in Iowa.
In 2016, the School Library Studies MA program was named among the top programs for the Most Affordable Online Master's in Library Science Degree by BestMastersDegrees.com.
Program features
The program is delivered online and establishes for our students a network of colleagues throughout the state. Mentored by faculty with K-12 teaching experience, students find a K-12 connection infused throughout all courses and progress as a cohort of educators teaching in a variety of levels and settings.
- Courses are designed using the Quality Matters set of professional standards based upon research and best practices for course design.
- All courses integrate technology skills, preparing our graduates to teach technology and literacy and lead schoolwide learning through co-planning, co-teaching and providing print and digital resources to students and teachers.
- The curriculum is aligned with the ALA/AASL Standards for Initial Preparation of School Librarians, and graduates of the program are prepared to enact the Iowa Department of Education vision for school libraries.
Program outcomes
School librarianship has continued to be a specialty among the "teacher shortage areas" in Iowa (Iowa Department of Education). Graduates most frequently work in schools as teacher librarians with many taking on roles as teacher leaders, technology integrationists, instructional coaches or curriculum directors. Some graduates choose to apply their new skills as classroom teachers, helping both their students and colleagues enhance their literacy and technology skills.
More information about the teacher librarian profession and the MA program is available through School Library Studies, Department of Curriculum and Instruction.
Convenient course delivery
Courses are offered online using eLearning, a learning management system requiring Internet access and a web browser. Many courses meet once per week in the evening via interactive video conferencing. One in-person, hands-on Saturday class session will be held on the UNI campus on Nov. 3, 2018. While most students encounter very few technical difficulties, our team of support specialists is available to assist you as needed.
