School Librarianship
The UWG School Librarianship (SL) program offers several options in coursework. All SL options prepare students to serve in PK-12 settings as building-level school librarians (also known as school library media specialists) or district-level media coordinators (also known as “district library supervisors”). Throughout all SL coursework options, students learn how to implement the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) National School Library Standards for Learners, School Librarians, and School Libraries.
Programs
- M.Ed in School Librarianship
- Ed.S in School Librarianship
- Non-Degree Certification in School Librarianship
Program Highlights
- 100% online courses facilitated by experienced online instructors
- Low or no cost textbooks
- Flexible field experience requirement
- Coursework focused exclusively on the PK-12 instructional program
- Relevant, real-world learning experiences designed to prepare students to serve in both face-to-face and virtual environments
- Multiple full-time SL faculty with extensive experience serving as PK-12 building-level media specialists and district-level media/technology coordinators
- Coursework aligned to the ALA/AASL/CAEP School Librarian Preparation Standards (2019) and National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Library Media Standards.
- Out-of-state candidates may be eligible to obtain initial Media Specialist certification in Georgia
- Option for Georgia educators that hold professional teaching certification to obtain Instructional Technology certification and other GaPSC approved endorsements
- Many graduates are state and national award winners and serve in leadership roles in the greater school library and instructional technology fields
Field Experience Requirement for SL Certificate and M.Ed. programs
Students are required to complete a minimum of 50 clock hours of field experience in school library settings, either as a volunteer or as an employee in a school library during their time in the program. Within the 50 hours, students must spend at least three full instructional days (minimum 7 continuous hours per day) volunteering their service with fully certified school librarians in school libraries at all levels (elementary, middle, high).