Online Master of Science in
Library and Information
Science: School Media
Online Master of Science in
Library and Information
Science: School Media
Online Master of Science in
Library and Information
Science: School Media

Apply by the February 11 Final Deadline
to Start in April
Apply by the February 11 Final Deadline
to Start in April

Accredited by the American Library Association and fulfilling a pathway to New York Department of Education certification requirements, the Master of Science in Library and Information Science with School Media Specialization (MSLIS: School Media) focuses on producing Library and Information Science professionals with the skills to instruct children in grades pre-K through 12 in all areas of literacy and technology fluency. 

The iSchool’s MSLIS: School Media program is nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report, and prepares graduates for certification as school library media specialists. The program requires students to meet core LIS requirements, as well as complete specified coursework in information literacy, youth services, information technology in schools, literacy and reading support, and management in school libraries.

Why Study School Media?

As the scope, context, and means of collecting information continue to evolve at an astounding rate, the traditional role of school librarians has expanded tremendously. Students in the iSchool’s LIS: School Media program learn to:

  • Provide active curriculum support: Graduates are prepared to collaborate with classroom teachers to teach research and information literacy skills as well as provide print and non-print media in support of the curriculum.
  • Facilitate organizational efficiency: Students learn to serve as intermediaries between the information needs of students, faculty, administration, and the community and the information systems and resources required to fulfill those needs.
  • Actively educate students: Graduates will be able to guide students in selecting reading materials; provide literacy support; and introduce and facilitate the effective use and delivery of current and emerging technologies.
  • Collect and manage information: Students learn to create and manage a unified media concept and to manage information beyond the walls of the centralized library facility.

Student Learning Outcomes

To ensure that graduates emerge fully prepared to succeed as library science professionals in school settings, the LIS: School Media curriculum focuses on a core selection of learning outcomes. Upon graduation, students will be able to demonstrate the following skills:

  • Teaching for learning: Students will have a comprehensive knowledge of learners and the process of learning. They will be effective teachers and instructional partners who can integrate 21st-century skills.
  • Literacy and reading: Students will be well-versed in literature and promote the values of reading. They will respect the diversity of literature and understand core strategies for enhancing literacy.
  • Information and knowledge: Students will understand efficient and ethical information-seeking behaviors and be fluent in information access, information technology, and research techniques.
  • Advocacy and leadership: Students will be prepared to network with the library community and promote professional development, leadership, and advocacy.
  • Program management and administration: Students will understand organizational needs such as collections; improving professional ethics; personnel, funding, and facilities; and strategic planning and assessment.

Program Requirements

The 36-credit online MS in Library and Information Science: School Media degree offers students a tailored approach to learning designed to fit each student’s unique personal and professional schedule. Typically, students complete the program in 18 months.

While this program is designed to enable students to meet the requirements to qualify for a New York State Certification, students may also be eligible for certification in other states outside of New York. Certification requirements including, but not limited to, teaching credentials and experience may differ from state to state. Therefore, a student enrolling in this program should research the requirements in the state in which they reside or intend to practice.