Master of Education in Library Media Studies

The library studies program at Salem State University offers students the opportunity to earn a master’s degree in education while earning initial certification as a Library Teacher K–12 in Massachusetts. Our goal is to prepare our students to become innovative and creative school librarians by introducing best practices, new ideas in the field, and avenues for pursuing excellence. Resources for knowledge acquisition, literature K-12, information literacy, management of the school library, and library design are just a few of the topics covered in our courses.

Through fieldwork and practicum experiences, students have hands-on experiences in the field. The online, asynchronous format of the program allows students the flexibility to take courses when they can without travel hardships. Instructors in the program are recognized throughout Massachusetts and the United States as leaders in the field of school librarianship.

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Program Requirements

Program Overview

Program Features 

  • Program modality: The courses are offered entirely online in an asynchronous format. However, in-person pre-practicum hours and a practicum in a Massachusetts school are required. 

  • Flexible pacing options: The program can be completed full-time or part-time, as best determined by the student and the timing of courses taken. Required courses are offered on a rotating schedule. 

  • Concurrent enrollment opportunities: Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders; Certificate in Digital Studies; and more. 

  • Graduate assistantships: Opportunities to apply for graduate assistantships, grants and scholarships. 

Curriculum

A female school librarian at a table with three young students

Our targeted 36-credit curriculum gives students the skills and confidence to be school library teachers. The curriculum for the library studies program includes six (6) core courses in library science, three (3) courses in educational theory and literature, one (1) media course, and a semester-long supervised practicum and seminar for the library teacher. 

After students are admitted to the program, a meeting with the program coordinator will help define the Plan of Study and completion date, setting the student on a path to success. All plans of study are flexible as life changes occur.

Practicum Requirements 

There are 75 observation hours required through three courses: LBS 730, LBS 750, and LBS 815. 

There are 300 required practicum hours through the practicum course LBs 900 N, and a practicum seminar, LBS 900 PS, is also required, taken in conjunction with the practicum course.

Licensure Opportunities*

We offer the opportunity to progress from your preliminary license through your professional license within one program. As soon as you pass your MTELs (state teacher tests), you can apply for your preliminary license and begin your career as a school librarian. You will be endorsed for your initial license once you have completed your core classes and practicum experience.

Upon completing your MEd and finishing at least three years of teaching under your initial license, you will be eligible for your professional license. This means that graduates of our program can complete all licensure requirements without needing to pursue additional coursework. 

*Please be aware that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts may change licensure requirements. Students are advised to contact the state for specific, current licensure requirements. Students may access that information at the Department for Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

Careers 

The library media studies program has a strong national reputation, and many who hold professional library teacher licenses in Massachusetts have the knowledge and skills needed to obtain licensure in other states successfully. School library jobs remain unfilled due to the lack of certified and qualified candidates. School librarianship always needs new and energetic candidates to help our school-aged children succeed in school and life. Graduates in our program have a high employment rate, and many have more than one job option.

Explore Pathways to a Career in Library Media Studies

Salem State offers two unique pathways to prepare you for the next steps in your career as a library teacher.
 

Library Media Studies Program Options

  • MEd, library media studies: for those seeking a master’s degree and an initial license as a library teacher K-12 in Massachusetts.

  • Licensure only, library media studies: for those with a master’s degree who want to become certified as a library teacher at all levels in Massachusetts.

If you have any questions about which program would be the best fit for you, please reach out to graduate admissions.

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