School Library Professional
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The school librarian profession is a cornerstone of schools, playing a multifaceted role in supporting students, teachers, and the broader learning community. School librarians create and maintain collections of resources, collaborate with teachers, and help students. Beyond managing the library space, school librarians provide guidance on research methodologies, technology integration, and foster a love of reading and lifelong learning. They may also organize engaging literacy events.
School librarians serve as a vital resource, connecting students with materials that spark curiosity and broaden perspectives. Being a school librarian isn't just a job; it's a calling to guide inquiry and inclusivity that empowers others to succeed.
Become a Specialist
The certificate is open to qualified candidates who have a master's degree from an accredited institution and who also hold a valid Tennessee teacher license. Upon certificate completion, students would follow the current Tennessee state requirement (taking Praxis Test #5312 “School Library Specialist”) and apply for add-on status to their current teaching licensure.
This certificate includes 24 credit hours of approved classes to meet the current school licensure requirements for Tennessee endorsement (School Library Specialist #473). Take courses that will prepare you to be a specialist, including program management, cataloging and classification, and children's, reference, and young adult materials. Program information including curriculum and graduation requirements can be found in the ETSU Graduate Catalog.
Visit the Educator Preparation website for additional guidance. The Office of Educator Preparation can answer questions, provide personalized support, and help you navigate the licensure process. Email teacherlicensure@etsu.eduto get started!
Professional Licensure Information: ETSU offers programs that meet Tennessee’s professional licensure or certification requirements; however, these may not meet the requirements in other states or territories. Students who plan to work outside of Tennessee should review ETSU's professional licensure information for details on whether this program’s curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in your state.
Steps to Apply
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Step 1 - Create your ETSU Application Account
Step 1 Create your ETSU Application Account by choosing the "Sign Up" option
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Step 2 - Sign into the ETSU Application Portal
Step 2 Sign in to the ETSU Application Portal and select "Start a New Application"
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Step 3 - Complete the Remaining Fields
Step 3 Choose "Graduate," select your student type (domestic or international), select "Certificate," term, then choose School Library Professional and complete the remainder of the form.
Cost
Credits to complete this program: 24 credit hours
| TN Residents | *eRate | Out of State |
|---|---|---|
| $672 per credit hour | $835.50 per credit hour | $1,513 per credit hour |
| - The *eRate applies to students living out of state and taking all web-based courses. - Additional fees may be required. - Visit the Paying for College page to read more about costs and financial aid options. - The costs associated with attending ETSU can include both direct and indirect costs. Please review ETSU's Cost of Attendance for more details. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What accreditations apply to this certificate program?
This program is accredited by CAEP/AASL.
Additionally, East Tennessee State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees. East Tennessee State University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of East Tennessee State University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website (www.sacscoc.org). -
What are the prerequisites for this program?
Applicants must have a master's degree from an accredited institution, hold a valid Tennessee teacher license, and meet the ETSU Graduate School admission requirements. -
Does this certificate lead to certification or licensure in this field?
The curriculum meets the current Tennessee licensure requirements for the K-12 School Library Specialist Endorsement (#473). Upon completing the certificate program, students will follow the current Tennessee state requirement (taking and passing Praxis Test #5312), “School Library Specialist”) and apply for add-on status to their current teaching licensure. -
Are the courses for this certificate asynchronous or synchronous?
The coursework is asynchronous; however, students are also required to complete a 200-hour practicum in area school systems. -
Are there any on-campus requirements?
There are no on-campus requirements. -
Does this certificate require field work or an internship?
Students are required to complete a 200-hour practicum in area school systems. -
What is the time to completion?
Time to completion varies depending on the number of courses taken each semester. The curriculum consists of 24 credit hours (8 courses). -
Is there a plan of study available for full-time and part-time options?
There is no fixed full-time or part-time plan of study. Each student’s course schedule is customized to meet their individual needs. -
When can I start?
The program offers fall, spring, and summer start terms. -
Are scholarships available?
Scholarships are offered by ETSU as well at the Clemmer College of Education and Human Development. Please visit the Paying for Graduate School and the Clemmer College of Education and Human Development pages for more information. ETSU also offers Graduate Assistantships.
External scholarship opportunities are also offered through the Tennessee Association of School Librarians and the Tennessee Library Association.