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School Library Media Programs → Become a Media Specialist

Become a Media Specialist

Media Specialist Preparation

The Division of School Library Media Programs (SLMP) works with local colleges and universities to provide information and support to MCPS staff members in regard to each university's graduate programs.  The following programs involve field experiences, practical training, theoretical and research-based foundation on the field of information studies, and supervisory support by colleges, universities, and MCPS cooperating media specialists.  Interested candidates will need to research each program to determine the best fit for their circumstances.  While some programs offer a face-to-face classroom experience, others are completely online and others are a hybrid of the two models.  All programs below result in fulfilling the Maryland Department of Education Certification Requirements for School Library Media Specialist.

Location: Maryland

McDaniel College

The program at McDaniel College results in a Master of Science (M.S.) in School Librarianship as well as state certification as a school library media specialist.  Nationally accredited and recognized through NCATE, ALA, and the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), this 37-credit hour comprehensive program offers courses in literature for children and young adults, technology, information literacy skills, instructional collaboration, selecting quality materials that meet the needs of diverse learners, administrating a school library, and a 99-hour practicum experience.

Delivered entirely online, candidates may begin the program at their convenience, in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.  The online classes are eight weeks long and two classes may be taken back to back in the fall and spring semesters, ensuring that candidates can finish the degree in 2 ½ years.

 

Towson University

Towson University School Library Media Program

Towson University offers two pathways for MCPS employees to earn MSDE certification as a School Library Media Specialist:

Program Options

1. Master’s Degree in Instructional Technology – School Library Media Concentration

• Requires completion of 12 courses (36 credits).

• Designed for candidates who hold a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree.

2. Post-Master’s Certificate in School Library Media

• Requires completion of 8 courses (24 credits).

• Open to certified educators who already hold an MSDE teaching license and a master’s degree.

Program Highlights

  • Both programs are offered as School Library Media Cohorts, featuring discounted tuition and a part-time schedule designed for working professionals.
  • The curriculum prepares candidates to become leaders in K–12 school library programs, capable of directing school- or system-level media centers.
  • Graduates are prepared to promote student-centered learning where information and technology literacy skills are integrated into multidisciplinary instruction.
  • All participants complete a supervised practicum in a Montgomery County Public Schools library media center, gaining experience at both the elementary and secondary levels.

Admission Requirements

  • Master’s Program: Bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.) required.
  • Certificate Program: Current MSDE certification and a master’s degree required.
  • Applicants should demonstrate strong motivation and professional commitment to succeed in a rigorous graduate program.

Contact Information

Dr. David E. Robinson

Graduate Program Director, School Library Media Program

Towson University

Phone: 410-704-6301

Email: derobins@towson.edu

Learn More

 

University of Maryland

The iSchool graduate program at the University of Maryland results in a Master of Library and Information Science degree and Maryland State Department of Education Certification as a School Library Media Specialist (SL).  The SL specialization's mission and curriculum are aligned with the latest national guidelines and standards for school library programs published by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL).  By adopting the mission endorsed by AASL, which represents the school library field nationally, the SL specialization ensures that its theoretical framework and philosophy are consistent with the latest and most advanced national statements regarding the profession.

The primary goals of the specialization are to:

  • Provide candidates with a theoretical and research-based foundation in the historical and contemporary issues influencing the development of the field of information studies and SL.

  • Help candidates develop the understanding and skills necessary to fulfill the five roles of the contemporary school librarian — leader, teacher, instructional partner, information specialist, and program administrator.

  • Prepare candidates to be (1) effective team members and advocates to integrate information literacy throughout the curriculum and (2) leaders in using technology to enhance learning. 

  • Help candidates master the most advanced thinking about learning theory, pedagogy, information access and delivery, educational and information studies research, and concepts and techniques of program management.

  • Provide rich field-based experiences that will enable candidates to apply theoretical understandings to practical settings.
  • Foster a professional attitude, a commitment to the ethics of the SL profession, and a dedication to becoming engaged an active leader in the learning community of the school. 

Each student is expected to participate in the operation of a school library program in both an elementary school and a secondary school for at total of 30 full school days.  Each student must complete two placements and the placements must be in different districts.  One placement must be in an elementary school (for a minimum of 15 days).  For the second placement, students choose between a middle OR a high school (for a minimum of 15 days).  Students enroll in the internship for one semester near the end of their studies but may extend the placements over two semesters, with the instructor's approval.  Students who are currently working in a school are not allowed to complete their internship in the school in which they are employed, but they may complete a placement at another school within the district.