School Library Media Specialist Certificate

OSRHE Program Code: 140

CIP Code: 250101

Certificate Code: 3310

Purpose

The Library Media program prepares candidates for the changing role of the school librarian in a global and technological society. They are prepared to provide leadership in the total education program, participate as active partners in the teaching/learning process, connect learners with ideas and information, and prepare students for life-long learning. They know how to instill a love of reading and can develop opportunities for their students to be effective managers of information.

Specialty Accreditation

NSU’s educator preparation programs at the baccalaureate and master’s levels are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), www.caepnet.org, (1140 19th Street NW, Suite 400, Washington, D.C. 20036-1023, 202-223-0077), and/or the Oklahoma Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (840 Research Parkway, Suite 455, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, 405-522-5399), www.ok.gov/oeqa

Credential Requirements

Candidates who hold an Oklahoma teaching license / certificate can add Library Media Specialist to that credential by passing the approved certification test for school librarians / library-media specialists at the completion of the program. Candidates who do not hold an Oklahoma standard teaching certificate must pass the approved subject test and meet any other alternative certification requirements established by the Oklahoma State Department of Education. There are fees associated with certification testing which is administered by an outside agency under contract with the Oklahoma Office of Educational Quality and Accountability.

Out of state candidates seeking initial licensure and/or certification are advised to contact the appropriate licensing board in their state to determine specific requirements. Northeastern State University cannot confirm whether a particular licensure program meets requirements for licensure outside of Oklahoma.

NSU’s Education Certification office can assist with information regarding university recommendation for certification. To be recommended for certification, students must have a graduate-level 3.0 grade point average (GPA).

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Participate as active partners in the teaching and learning process.
2. Use strategies to foster learner motivation to read for learning, personal growth, and enjoyment.
3. Lead and collaborate with members of the learning community to effectively design and implement solutions that positively impact learner growth and strengthen the role of the school library.
4. Apply strategies to evaluate information and resources to support the school’s curriculum and learning goals.
5. Model and teach ethical use of information and technology in the creation of new knowledge.

Admission, Retention, and Completion

Students must be admitted to the Graduate College. In addition, for admission to the School Library Media Specialist Certificate program, the applicant must meet the following criteria:

1. Evidence of Master’s degree (transcript from issuing accredited educational institution, provided when applying to the Graduate college).

Advisement. The Graduate College assigns students an advisor upon admission to graduate studies. It is the candidate’s responsibility to make an appointment with the advisor prior to enrollment to discuss policies and procedures relevant to the degree program. Conferring with the student, the advisor develops the plan of study, assists in the selection of classes, and counsels the student.

Portfolio. Candidates are required to develop portfolios. During the capstone course, LIBM 5902 Practicum, a presentation before an audience of faculty and peers is required.

Retention and Completion. The candidate for the School Library Media Specialist Certificate must satisfy the following requirements:

1. Continue to meet the Graduate College’s Retention Standards to be retained in the program. See the Academic Information page for more information.
2. Monitor progress using the degree audit system in the goNSU portal.
3. Meet Graduate College policies detailed in Academic Information and Master’s Degree Requirements regarding GPA, minimum grades, coursework age, residency and institutional / state regulations.