COURSE CURRICULUM

The School Library program within University at Albany (UAlbany) is a 36-credit, fully online, ALA-accredited graduate program designed to prepare students for careers as school librarians and information professionals. The program leads to initial teaching certification as a library media specialist, or professional certification for those already holding initial teacher certification. It also provides strong career flexibility under New York State Education Department guidelines, allowing students to work in school libraries through either a 12-credit Supplementary Certificate (for certified teachers) or an 18-credit Internship Certificate (for those without prior teacher certification) while completing their master’s degree. Additionally, graduates are immediately eligible for public librarian licensure, expanding employment opportunities beyond schools. The curriculum is designed to build expertise in instructional leadership, information literacy, and library administration, ensuring graduates can support students, teachers, and communities in navigating today’s information-rich environment. Program coursework includes Teaching Fundamentals for School Libraries, School Libraries: Theory, Practice and Assessment, Administration of School Library Media Centers, Curriculum and Supportive Resources, and Information Sources and Services, along with literature-focused courses in children’s and young adult literature. Students also study foundational information science topics such as The Information Environment, Information and Knowledge Organization, and Research Methods. A required School Library Internship provides hands-on experience in real educational settings, allowing students to apply theory to practice while developing professional competencies. An elective course further allows specialization. The program emphasizes both instructional and assessment skills, preparing graduates to design effective library programs, teach information literacy, and evaluate student learning outcomes. With strong retention and completion rates, the program equips graduates to become effective school librarians and leaders in educational information services across New York State and beyond.