The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) predicts that there will be 30,000 job vacancies in U.S. school libraries in the next few years. The Pennsylvania Department of Education anticipates that 30% of currently employed school librarians will retire within the same time period.
Mansfield University's Master of Education in School Library and Information Technologies (M.Ed.) is an exciting program designed around the AASL publications, Empowering Learners and Standards for 21st Century Learners. Our courses are practical and offered 100% online via Desire2Learn, a powerful web-based course management system. The SL&IT program is a nationally recognized NCATE-AASL Reviewed & Approved School Library Media Education Program. Almost all SL&IT students work full-time, taking classes part time. The average student takes about three years to complete the program.
Pennsylvania certified teachers who complete the 31 or 33-credit program with a 3.0 GPA or better need to take and pass the PRAXIS II test for Library Science, then request the addition of "Library Science" to their teaching certificate by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). Teachers in other states may seek the Master of Education degree, without school library certification, then request Certification/Licensure/or Endorsement in library science through their own state Department of Education.
In some states, non-PA students can obtain certification without completing the entire degree (or earn PA certification then request reciprocity in accordance with their home state's requirements). Approximately 50 percent of students enrolled in the SL&IT program are out-of-state. For further details see our Guide to Reciprocity & Certification.
If you want to:
- provide expertise in planning and managing the use of electronic technologies and information
- teach students to access, apply and evaluate information to solve problems
- partner with teachers to design, implement and assess curriculum and instruction to meet academic standards
- select and manage resources to meet the literacy and information needs of students and the curriculum
- build and oversee a school library program that promotes literacy and information literacy as keys to authentic, lifelong learning for students
- serve as a leader in implementing quality instruction and creating authentic learning experiences
then school librarianship is for you! Mansfield University's Master's program in School Library and Information Technologies can help you to meet your educational goals and career objectives.
The Program
The Master of Education in School Library and Information Technologies program is developed for the 21st Century and introduces a new model for program development.
- Developed and taught by practitioners
The curriculum was created by some of Pennsylvania's most noteworthy leaders in school libraries and reflects the latest integration of educational theory and practice. Experts in course content are sought from across the US to teach and facilitate courses. Currently there are 19 instructors from six states.
- Developed collaboratively
It is the product of a close working relationship among the School Library Media Division at the Pennsylvania Department of Education, members of the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association and Mansfield University to meet the shortage of school library media specialists.
- Delivered over the Internet
This interactive, web-based learning environment involves audio, video and interactive online discussions and is fully supported by other university services.
- Certified
The Master of Education in School Library and Information Technologies program is certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and accredited by NCATE and the Middle States Commission. Due to our exclusive focus on school libraries, the program is not accredited by the American Library Association, but is a nationally recognized NCATE-AASL Reviewed & Approved School Library Media Education Program.
Program Concentrations
On the application for admissions, you will select one of two program concentrations. Candidates completing the Master's degree only will complete 31 or 33 semester hours of school library course work to earn an M.Ed. in School Library and Information Technologies. Candidates will seek K-12 school library certification by their state's department of education.
Candidates who are already certified school librarians complete ten 3-credit courses and a 1-credit Practicum for a total of 31 semester hours.
Candidates without school library certification and practice in the field as a school librarian complete ten 3-credit courses and a 3-credit Practicum for a total of 33 semester hours.
Candidates completing the Master's degree plus PA certification will complete 31 or 33 semester hours of school library course work. In addition, four special education core courses are required by the PA Department of Education for certification. The four required courses (12 credits) are:
- SPE 5501, Educating Children with Exception Learning Needs
- SPE 5544, Instruction High Incidence Disabilities
- SPE 5542, Assessment and Behavior Management
- SPE 5530, Diverse Cultural and Linguistic Learners
Advantages to Students
- Collaborative
You can interact with other students and establish a community of learners in thought-provoking online discussions held in both small and large groups. Since there are no location limitations, you can work with colleagues from many regions.
- Convenient
You have more flexibility over when and where work is done. Learn technology by using technology and pursue learning in an independent way. Most classes require some in-school field experiences, and you may choose a location convenient for you.
- Interaction with Other Professionals
You have the opportunity to work with educators and others from across the state and nation who have similar interests.
Our Department Chair
Cynthia Keller
Ms. Keller earned a B.S. degree in Elementary Education and Library Science, an M.L.S., and a Supervisor's Certificate from Shippensburg University. She has written numerous articles, co-authored two Library Skill Books, and has conducted many workshops and presentations for the PA Department of Education. Her experience extends to K-12 libraries, supervision, distance learning, grant writing, curriculum development, storytelling and technology. As Library Supervisor for the Chambersburg Area School District she coordinated 22 libraries. She has also taught for Penn State and Clarion University.
