School Library Graduate Program FAQs
Thinking about becoming a certified PK-12 School Librarian? UNO’s flexible, fully online School Library graduate program is designed to fit your schedule and your goals.
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Is the program completely online?
Yes, the entire program can be completed online, with field experiences in your local area.
Who is this program for?
It’s designed for candidates seeking to work in a school library.
Do I need certification to work in a school library?
It depends on which state you plan to work in. It is best to check with the local department of education for requirements.
In Nebraska, anyone working as a school librarian must complete a graduate school library certification program. Also, per Nebraska state rule, Certificate Endorsement Requirements: This endorsement requires the applicant to hold a teaching certificate or concurrently earn a subject or field endorsement, and acquire a minimum of 30 semester hours in school library coursework including leadership, library administration, technology, information access, children’s and young adult literature, resource management, and curriculum and instruction.
Will I earn an MLIS (Master’s in Library Information Science)?
No. Those who complete the program will be eligible to apply for PK-12 School Library certification. Candidates have the option to take 2 additional courses to earn a Master’s in Elementary Education or a Master’s in Secondary Education.
Can I work while completing the program?
Absolutely! Class sessions are held four times during a term.
- During the fall and spring, classes meet roughly once a month on Saturdays or Sundays from 8:30 – 11:15 or 12:30 – 3:15. On rare occasions, an elective course could be held on a Friday evening.
- In the summer, classes meet once a week and can be in the morning, afternoon, or evening. June classes typically meet on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday. July classes typically meet on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday
Do I need to take classes every semester?
No. Classes are offered in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. You can finish the program by only taking Fall and Spring courses, but you cannot just take Summer courses as some are only offered in the Fall and Spring.
Are the synchronous class sessions required?
Yes. These sessions allow candidates to build connections with those in the school library field as well as begin building their professional learning network with their fellow candidates. Guest speakers are frequently invited to class sessions which provides real-time access and opportunities to ask questions. Community is built through whole group discussions and breakout room conversations.
How long does it take to complete the program?
It depends on how many classes are taken each semester and if there are any credits available for transfer. It is recommended that candidates working full-time do not take more than two classes per semester. Candidates will meet with the Coordinator to discuss options for their plan of study.
When can I begin working as a school librarian?
It depends on which state you plan to work in. It is best to check with the local department of education for requirements.
In Nebraska, there are several options depending on district requirements. Some districts require a full endorsement while others require at least a provisional endorsement. Candidates can apply for a provisional endorsement after completing 15 credit hours. In some cases, candidates can begin working while taking initial coursework through a waiver their district applies for with the Nebraska Department of Education. These candidates must take at least 6 credit hours (two classes) each academic year while working as the school librarian.
Can I transfer graduate credits from another college?
Yes! UNO accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions, pending transcript review. Our Coordinator can help you determine which of your prior graduate courses will apply toward the school library endorsement.
Note, graduate credits are only eligible for transfer for 10 years.
Do any of my undergraduate credits transfer?
If you attended UNO as an undergraduate and received a degree in Teacher Education, some courses may count toward your master’s certification (but not a master’s degree). Our Coordinator can help you determine which of your prior undergraduate courses will apply toward the school library endorsement. If you did not attend UNO, then undergraduate courses will not count toward Master’s certification.
Note, UNO undergraduate credits are only eligible for 10 years.
What kind of technology or software will I need?
Because the program is entirely online, you’ll need a reliable internet connection and access to a computer. All coursework takes place in UNO’s online learning system, and technical support is available to help you get started.
How do I apply?
You can apply directly through the UNO graduate admissions portal. Once admitted, you’ll work with the Coordinator to outline your plan of study.
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Still have questions?
For questions about the UNO online School Library Endorsement program or to set up an initial meeting regarding the program, contact Courtney Pentland, Coordinator for Graduate School Library and Instructional Technology Leadership Programs, at cpentland@unomaha.edu.