Introduction to the Master of Library and Information Science: School Library Teacher Concentration

The Master of Library and Information Science: School Library Teacher Concentration at Simmons University is designed to connect students with information resources locally and globally, and to use technology for research and project-based learning.

Why Study in the School Library Teacher Concentration?

Students in this concentration engage in intellectually rigorous and stimulating coursework focused on instructional technologies used in today's schools. As a school library teacher, graduates will be academic leaders, focusing on information literacy and igniting students' interest in reading and technology.

Program Details

• The concentration cannot be completed entirely online.
• Students have face-to-face classroom options in Boston and at SLIS West (Greenfield and Amherst, Massachusetts) and can undertake some online courses.
• Practicums must be completed in public schools in Massachusetts.
• The School Library Concentration has exceptional academics, faculty, professional mentors, and customizable program options.

Ranked Among the Best

Simmons University is one of U.S. News and World Report's top-ranking schools of library and information science in the nation.

Curriculum

• The School Library Teacher Concentration consists of 36 credit hours.
• The core curriculum focuses on technology integration, curriculum development, and literacy initiatives in the K-12 learning environment.
• For more details, see the Library and Information Science course descriptions.

Fieldwork and Practicum Experience

• Students participate in supervised fieldwork in area public schools and a practicum experience at both the elementary and secondary school levels.
• Accumulate 75 hours of fieldwork and at least 300 hours of professional experience throughout the School Library Teacher Concentration program.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from the program go on to successful careers as school library teachers in elementary, middle, and high schools.

Licensure

• After completing the state-approved program as a school library teacher, graduates are eligible to be endorsed by SLIS to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for licensure.
• The National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) endorses the program, and external accrediting agencies commend its outstanding quality.

Program Requirements

• Students in the MS (LIS) degree program must complete 36 credits of graduate coursework to be qualified to earn the MS (LIS) degree.
• MS (LIS) students must maintain a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 to continue in the program.
• Students in the School Library Teacher (SLT) concentration must receive a "B" (3.0) or better in every course.

Concentrations and Specializations

• LIS students may choose to focus their studies by following a degree concentration curriculum designed to prepare students to work in a variety of information institutions with a diversity of materials and tools.
• Students who choose to concentrate their studies must complete the LIS core courses required of all MS students as well as a sequence of courses required to earn the degree concentration.

School Library Teacher Concentration Course Requirements

• LIS core courses (6 credits):
  • LIS407: Information Service, Behaviors & Ethics
  • LIS415: Information Organization
• Take the following (24 credits):
  • LIS406: Management and Evaluation of School Library Programs
  • LIS459: Fundamentals of School Librarianship
  • LIS460: Technology and the School Library Teacher
  • LIS461: Curriculum and Instructional Strategies for the School Library Teacher
  • LIS481: Library Collections and Materials for Children
  • LIS483: Library Collections and Materials for Young Adults
  • LIS498: Practicum (PreK-8)
  • LIS499: Practicum (7-12)
• Two elective courses (6 credits)

Online Program

• Students may complete the master of science degree program in library and information science fully online.
• Students may choose the DYO (Design Your Own) option and customize their degree program to reflect their professional goals.
• Or, they may choose to concentrate their studies in archives management or information science and technology.
• Students pursuing school library teacher may supplement their on-campus courses with online courses.

SLIS West (Greenfield, Massachusetts)

• Attend the LIS Master's Program at SLIS West in Greenfield, Massachusetts, located at Greenfield Community College.
• The SLIS West Campus is primarily a part-time program geared towards the needs of working students.
• The small classes, scheduling flexibility, and cohesive community help working students succeed in the classroom and in their careers.

Scholarships, Fellowships, Discounts, and Additional Benefits

• Learn more about Library and Information Science scholarships, fellowships, professional and partner discounts, and other funding sources.

Format

• Offered as a Master's degree
• On-campus format

School/Department

• School of Library and Information Science

Related Programs

• Undergraduate:
  • Computer Science + Library and Information Science (3+1) BS, MS
  • Information Technology + Library and Information Science (3+1) BS, MS
• Graduate:
  • Children's Literature + Library Services to Children MA, MS
  • Library and Information Science (MS) MS
  • Library and Information Science PhD PhD
  • Library and Information Science: Archives Management + History MA, MS
  • Library and Information Science: Archives Management Certificate Certificate
  • Library and Information Science: Archives Management Concentration MS
  • Library and Information Science: Cultural Heritage Informatics Concentration MS
  • Library and Information Science: Information Science and Technology Concentration MS
  • Library and Information Science: School Library Teacher Licensure Certificate

Faculty

• Melanie Kimball: Associate Professor and Director, School Library Teacher Concentration
• Georgina Trebbe: Adjunct Faculty

Simmons University

---

Overview:

Simmons University is a private university located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is known for its focus on women's leadership and its commitment to social justice. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online options, and is recognized for its real-world learning opportunities and integrated career advising.

---

Services Offered:

Simmons University provides a variety of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Campus Dining:

A variety of dining options on campus.

Community Engagement:

Opportunities for students to engage in social justice initiatives and community service.

Student Support & Resources:

A range of resources to support student success, including academic support, counseling, and health services.

Library:

Access to a comprehensive library with extensive resources.

Athletics:

A variety of athletic programs and opportunities for students to participate in sports.

Events:

A calendar of events and activities for students to participate in.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Simmons University offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

A small college feel:

A close-knit campus community with a focus on student support and engagement.

A dynamic city location:

Located in the heart of Boston, students have access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Real-world learning opportunities:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

A commitment to inclusivity:

A welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Real-world learning:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

Integrated career advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Accelerated graduate programs:

Shorten the time to a graduate degree with accelerated undergraduate to graduate programs.

Location in Boston:

Access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Commitment to social justice:

A focus on women's leadership and social justice initiatives.

---

Academic Programs:

Simmons University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

A variety of majors and minors in fields such as business, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

Graduate programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, law, and social work.

Online programs:

A range of online undergraduate and graduate programs for adult learners.

---

Other:

Simmons University has been recognized with the 2024 Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose, which acknowledges its commitment to leadership and the collective public good. The university also has a strong alumni network and offers a variety of resources for alumni to stay connected.