School Library Studies (MA)

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Overview

The School Library Studies program offers an online master's degree for those who wish to become K-12 teacher librarians and/or qualify for one or more of the Iowa teacher librarian endorsements.

K-8 Elementary School Teacher Librarian - #108
5-12 Secondary School Teacher Librarian - #109
K-12 School Teacher Librarian - #174

Our School Library Studies MA program was recently named as the tenth “Most Affordable Master’s in Library Science Online” for 2019 by SR Education Group, a leading education research publisher, along with OnlineU.

Applications are currently being accepted for the Fall 2021 cohort.
Apply by July 2, 2021 for full consideration

View/download flyer with additional information

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 November 6, 2021. Note: Course delivery for the November meeting is subject to change if necessary due to safety measures related to COVID 19. Program faculty will communicate any changes or updates as needed.

While most students encounter very few technical difficulties, our team of support specialists is available to assist you as needed.

Testimonials

Megan Casey

Promoting summer reading is a year-round affair according to Megan Casey (M.A. 2017), a teacher librarian at Washington Elementary School in Mt. Vernon, Iowa.

Kerry LeWarne

Students are passionate about audiobooks at St. Francis of Assisi School in West Des Moines, and they love to share this joy with others. According to their teacher librarian Kerry LeWarne (M.A. 2016), they often come to her and say, “Mrs.

Program Schedule

School Library Studies (MA) - Fall 2021 Cohort

Tentative course schedule
Click on a course title to view the course description (if available).

Fall 2021

SLS

5114

Introduction to the School Library Program

Survey of school librarianship, functions of the school library, national and state professional guidelines and standards, ethical and legal issues; includes a field experience collection management project in a selected school library. Must be taken in the first semester. Prerequisite(s): junior standing; consent of instructor.

3 unit(s)

SLS

5134

Library Resources for Young Adults

Collection development process related to resources of secondary school libraries, with a focus on the roles of the teacher librarian as both information specialist and teacher. Prerequisite(s): junior standing. Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): SLS 4114/5114 (350:114g) or consent of instructor.

3 unit(s)

Spring 2022

SLS

5132

Library Resources for Children

Collection development process related to resources of elementary school libraries, with a focus on strategies for supporting students' reading motivation and reading comprehension. Roles of the teacher librarian as both information specialist and teacher. Prerequisite(s): junior standing. Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): SLS 4114/5114 (350:114g) or consent of instructor.

3 unit(s)

SLS

6250

Information Resources for Inquiry Learning

Collection management for print and digital reference sources and information systems for youth. Question-negotiation, search strategies, critical evaluation, and information use in the context of inquiry based learning. Prerequisite(s): SLS 4115/5115 (350:115g).

3 unit(s)

Summer 2022

SLS

5115

Organization of Information

Application of standards of descriptive cataloging and MARC record for automated systems. Application of Dewey Decimal Classification and standard subject headings for school library catalogs. Administration of library automation systems for management of collections. Introduction of tagging and other web-based methods for organization of information and information sources. Prerequisite(s): junior standing. Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): SLS 4114/5114 (350:114g)/5114 (350:114) or consent of program coordinator.

3 unit(s)

SLS

6230

Technologies for Libraries

Emphasis on technologies for school libraries, including design specific to school library websites (Librarian as program administrator), web-based tools for teaching the inquiry processes (Librarian as teacher) and tools for organizing information for efficient user access (Librarian as information specialist). Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): SLS 4115/5115 (350:115g)/5115 (350:115).

3 unit(s)

Fall 2022

SLS

6223

School Library Curriculum Development

Collaborative role of the school teacher librarian in curriculum design. Study of curriculum frameworks and the curriculum integration of information process models, PK-12, with an emphasis on inquiry-based learning. Prerequisite(s): SLS 4114/5114 (350:114g). Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): SLS 4132/5132 (350:132g) or SLS 4134/5134 (350:134g) or SLS 6250 (350:250).

3 unit(s)

SLS

6295

Research in Library and Information Science

Survey of basic research methodologies and critical evaluation of school library research studies. The use of the research process to develop a draft proposal for a research study, or project. Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): SLS 6250 (350:250).

3 unit(s)

Spring 2023

SLS

6225

Leadership in the School Library Program

Administrative and leadership role of the school teacher librarian, including organizational strategies, planning, and policy development. Prerequisite(s): SLS 4114/5114 (350:114g).

3 unit(s)

SLS

6290

Practicum

Experience in the function of elementary and secondary school libraries. Principles of effective collaborative teaching and inquiry based learning. May be repeated up to six hours with permission of the Division. Prerequisite(s): SLS 4114/5114 (350:114g); SLS 6223 (350:223); or written consent of instructor.

3 unit(s)

Summer 2023

SLS

6299

Research

Focus on the process of completing the research study, project, or thesis. Must be taken during the semester when the study is completed and may be repeated. Student must enroll in at least 1 credit hour during the semester the study is completed. Prerequisite(s): SLS 6295 (350:295); consent of department.

3 unit(s)

Please note: Financial aid is not available to students enrolled in less than 4 units of credit this semester.

This curriculum meets requirements for the state of Iowa. Out-of-state students should inquire with their Department of Education regarding specific state requirements.

Students only interested in the Iowa School librarian endorsements should contact the department at library.studies@uni.edu for advisement.

FAQs

General information

What are the costs?

All students pay the same tuition rate, regardless of location, making it an affordable option for all students.

Tuition for the 2020-21 academic year is $509 per unit of graduate credit or $320 per unit of undergraduate credit. An additional technology fee per course may apply. Tuition and fees are expected to rise each May, typically announced by the Iowa Board of Regents in March.

Do I qualify for financial aid?

Distance education students may qualify for financial aid with the following eligibility requirements:

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Be admitted to UNI and enrolled in a degree-seeking or Advanced Studies Certificate program
Be enrolled for a minimum number of credits per semester or summer session
Be in compliance with satisfactory academic progress standards

Specific questions about financial aid should be directed to the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships at 319-273-2700 or fin-aid@uni.edu

Why choose the University of Northern Iowa?

Since its establishment in 1876 as the Iowa State Normal School, the University of Northern Iowa has maintained its affirmed commitment to the support of excellence in teacher education. That commitment remains strong as the university continues to prepare students to become teachers, as well as provide opportunities for career advancement in the field of education. In addition to a commitment to teaching, our faculty members are engaged in research, writing and professional development. View UNI's national rankings and honors.

I'm not sure about distance learning. How can I make sure it’s right for me?

Research findings demonstrate that students of all types of learning styles can succeed in a distance environment. View our tips for being a successful distance learner.

What kind of support services can I expect to receive?

The University of Northern Iowa is committed to providing comprehensive support services for distance education students. The Office of Continuing and Distance Education serves as your primary point of contact in accessing distance education support services, including enrollment services, technical support for online course tools and more. You are also given access to the UNI Rod Library’s print and electronic collections for your convenience. View a complete list of services and support resources.

Please contact the Office of Continuing and Distance Education at 319-273-7206, 800-648-3864 or distance@uni.edu with any questions. If we don’t have the answer, we will do our best to find it.

Will academic advising assistance be provided?

You will work with the program coordinator when communicating about the program of study. Once participating in the program, you will be assigned a faculty advisor who will work with you one-on-one regarding your progress in the program.

Program specific information

How do I get started?

See the "Next Steps" tab above for information. If you have any questions, please contact the program coordinator(s) and/or enrollment contact below or contact the Office of Continuing and Distance Education at ContinuingEd@uni.edu.

What happens if I miss a course in the sequence?

While it is often possible to make up courses that are missed, our commitment is to deliver the courses as outlined in the cohort schedule. This is not designed as a program in which students come and go. Rather, the cohort model requires that students take the prescribed sequence in unison. Should you need to miss a course, you should consult with your program advisor for options.

How will I enroll in the courses?

When you have completed the steps to admission and have been accepted into the program, we will send you details and information about how to enroll in the first course. After you participate in the first term of courses in the cohort sequence, the Office of Continuing and Distance Education will notify you with enrollment details for the next term of courses as they become available. You are required to enroll in your courses each semester.

Can I take the courses out of sequence or start at a later date?

The program is planned so that students move through the sequence of courses as a cohort group. The first course forms a foundation for the program and includes an introduction unit describing the program goals, sequence of courses, standards, rubrics and academic expectations. For that reason, it is important that you enroll and complete the courses in the same sequence. Program faculty expect that students have a growing knowledge of concepts built upon a prescribed sequence of courses. In addition, program faculty work to build an online community as students move through the course sequence together.

How are the courses delivered?

For information about course delivery, please see the "Overview" tab above.

Additional FAQs

What are the GPA guidelines?

Undergraduate GPA	Admission consideration
3.0 and above	May be considered for full admission
2.75-2.99	May be considered for provisional admission
Less than 2.75	May be denied admission

Is teacher licensure required for admission?

Yes, teacher licensure is required for admission. If you do not have a teaching license, you must complete teacher education coursework before beginning this graduate program.

If you are a post-BA student and have been in the workforce for several years, you may wish to explore an alternative licensure program - the Iowa Intern License Pathway.

Where can I find more information about the courses and course requirements?

Visit the School Library Studies web page for more information about courses and requirements.

Does completion of this degree program qualify me for the Iowa Teacher Librarian Endorsement?

Yes. The School Library Studies MA degree (along with a valid Iowa teaching license) meets the state of Iowa requirements for the K-12 teacher librarian endorsement (#174). If you only want an elementary endorsement (#108) or a secondary endorsement (#109), you could apply to the program and complete 24 hours instead of the full 33 credits which are required for the MA degree/K-12 endorsement. For more information, see the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners website.

What are the benefits of pursuing the School Library Studies MA degree?

The School Library Studies program offers a master's degree for those who wish to become teacher librarians and qualify for the K-12 teacher librarian endorsement in Iowa.

Is the GRE or any other examination required?

No exams are required as part of the program application.

Can I take the courses out of sequence?

Students may choose to accelerate their progress; some students may prefer a slower pace. Such adjustments require referring to the schedule each semester to determine availability of courses.

Next Steps

Step one: Express your interest

Please complete the online interest form to the right to express your interest in joining a future School Library Studies MA cohort. We will use the information you provide to send you program updates, including important information about enrollment deadlines as they become available.

Step two: Apply for admission

We are currently accepting applications for the Fall 2021 cohort. Apply by July 2, 2021 for full consideration.

Former UNI students: The online application requires logging in with your CatID credentials. If you have forgotten your username or passphrase, contact the IT Help Desk at servicedesk@uni.edu or 319-273-5555 and have them reset your password.

Need help with your UNI application?

Contact us at 800-648-3864 or Distance@uni.edu for assistance. Additional resources are also available from the UNI Graduate College.

Complete the online Application for Graduate Study and the required application materials requested by the department (see below). (Note: required application materials can be attached at the time of application submission or after submission.)
Please note that you are applying for admission as a Graduate student for Fall 2021.
The program for which you are applying is School Library Studies - MA.
If you have applied to the program in the past and would like to change your admit term to Fall 2021, please log into your application at admissions.uni.edu/apply and choose Change Application Term. You will then be prompted to enter Fall 2021 in the Admit Term dropdown.
Entrance exams are not required.
You must submit an Applicant Statement (limit 500 words) in response to a question about teacher librarianship. The question can be found in the online application, and your response should be uploaded as a pdf. The Statement will be waived for applicants who have a prior master's degree.
Note that if you have received a degree from UNI, you do not have to pay the non-refundable $60 application fee or request your UNI transcripts.
Criteria for admission include:

3.0 GPA in a completed degree program
A teaching license or completion of teacher education coursework
Suitability for the program as demonstrated through a well written statement

Required application materials can be attached (in .pdf format) to the application at the time of or after submission or sent directly to the Office of Admissions.

Additional information about admissions from the UNI Division of Library Studies.

What to expect

When your transcripts have been received, you will receive a confirmation email from UNI Admissions noting that your application is complete. If you have not received this notice in a timely manner, it is your responsibility to contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@uni.edu or 319-273-2281 to see what might be delaying the completion of your application.

The Department of Curriculum and Instruction will review your application materials and contact you about your admission status. Following admission to the program, you will be assigned to a cohort group and provided enrollment information for the upcoming courses.

Delivery of the program is contingent on a sufficient number of students being accepted into the program.

Program Coordinator(s):

Joan Bessman Taylor

Curriculum and Instruction

(319) 273-2192

joan.taylor@uni.edu

Enrollment Contact:

Rita Gutman

Continuing and Distance Education

(319) 273-2504

Rita.Gutman@uni.edu

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Continuing Education and Special Programs

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Program outcomes

Convenient course delivery

Megan Casey

Kerry LeWarne

School Library Studies (MA) - Fall 2021 Cohort

General information

Program specific information

Additional FAQs

Step one: Express your interest

Step two: Apply for admission

What to expect

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