Master of Science in Information Science School Library
Program Overview
Master of Science in Information Science School Library
About the Program
The Master of Science in Information Science School Library (ISSL) program at the University at Albany is designed to prepare students for 21st-century school librarianship. The program combines various disciplines, including library and information science, education, cognitive science, instructional technology and design, psychology, and sociology. The curriculum is aligned with the National School Library Standards and includes a makerspace course.
Program of Study
The ISSL program is a 36-credit, fully online program that leads to initial teaching certification as a library media specialist or to professional certification if candidates are initially certified. The program includes the following courses:
- Teaching Fundamentals for School Libraries
- Curriculum and Supportive Resources
- School Libraries: Theory, Practice and Assessment
- Administration of School Library Media Centers
- Information Sources and Services
- Literature for Children
- Literature for Young Adults
- The Information Environment
- Information and Knowledge Organization
- Research Methods
- School Library Internship
- Elective Course
Required Field Experience
The following courses have a total of 100 hours of aligned field experience:
- School Libraries: Theory, Practice and Assessment
- Curriculum and Supportive Resources
Required Internship
There is a University-supervised internship in the program.
Admissions Requirements
- Transcripts from all schools attended
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume
- Personal statement (one page, single-spaced essay addressing the following: "Thinking back on the school librarians you have encountered during your education, how has the role of the school librarian changed? How do you see yourself as part of that change?")
Deadlines
- Fall: August 1
- Spring: January 1
- Summer: Rolling
Student Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate a sense of professional identity by applying the concepts and principles of library and information sciences and related disciplines.
- Know the history of the information professions and understand the changing roles of information professionals in a global environment.
- Create, select, acquire, organize, describe, manage, preserve, retrieve and disseminate information using relevant theories and practices.
- Assess information needs of diverse and underserved populations and provide resources and instruction to meet those needs.
- Recognize the crucial role of users in the development and delivery of user-centered information systems and services.
- Formulate, interpret and implement information policy including issues of privacy, equity, intellectual property and intellectual freedom.
- Promote and demonstrate the use of ethical standards in the creation, management and use of information.
- Conduct and apply research to develop, maintain and evaluate information content and assess information services.
- Understand, implement and use appropriate technologies in the delivery of information content and services.
- Apply management principles to the creation, administration and promotion of information organizations and systems.
- Understand the information environment and build collaborative relationships to strengthen library and information services and literacy.
Supplemental Degree Programs
Graduate students can typically request a supplemental degree in one or more subordinate degrees without needing to go through the full admissions process again. Supplemental programs available with this degree include:
- Africana Studies CGS
- Community College Leadership CGS
- Demography CGS
- International Education Management CGS
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The UAlbany Information Science School Library (ISSL) program is a 36-credit, fully online program leading to initial teaching certification as a library media specialist or professional certification for experienced educators. This program is designed to prepare future school librarians to be information professionals and leaders in the field. It combines various disciplines including library and information science, education, cognitive science, instructional technology and design, psychology, and sociology. Additionally, the program is aligned with the National School Library Standards and is one of the first school library graduate programs to offer a makerspace course.
Objectives:
- Prepare students to be information professionals and leaders as teacher-librarians.
- Become assessment literate.
Program Description:
The ISSL program is designed to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to be successful school librarians in the 21st century. The program covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Technology
- Curriculum and instruction
- Assessment
- Administration
- Leadership The program features a blend of theoretical and practical coursework, including a required internship that provides students with hands-on experience in a school library setting.
Outline:
Program of Study:
- Teaching Fundamentals for School Libraries
- Curriculum and Supportive Resources
- School Libraries: Theory, Practice and Assessment
- Administration of School Library Media Centers
- Literature for Children
- Literature for Young Adults
- The Information Environment
- Information and Knowledge Organization
- Research Methods
- School Library Internship
- Elective Course
- The program is fully online.
- Students can complete the program in as little as 3 years.
- The program is accredited by the American Library Association.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Coursework
- Exams
- Projects
- Internship
Assessment Criteria:
- Understanding of key concepts
- Ability to apply concepts to real-world situations
- Critical thinking skills
- Communication skills
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Online lectures
- Discussion boards
- Group projects
- Webinars
Faculty:
- The program faculty are all experienced school librarians and educators.
- The faculty are actively involved in research and scholarship.
Unique Approaches:
- The program offers a makerspace course.
- The program emphasizes the use of technology in the school library.
- The program is designed to be flexible and accommodate the needs of working professionals.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- School librarian
- Public librarian
- Curriculum developer
- Educational consultant
Career Opportunities:
- School libraries
- Public libraries
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
- Private companies
Career Outcomes:
- Graduates of the ISSL program are highly qualified to work in a variety of school and library settings.
- The program prepares graduates to be leaders in the field of school librarianship.
Other:
- The program is open to students with a bachelor's degree in any field.
- Students can apply for financial aid.
Overview:
University at Albany, also known as the University at Albany - State University of New York, is a public research university located in Albany, New York. It is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and has a long history, having been established in 1844. The university is known for its diverse academic programs, strong research focus, and commitment to public engagement.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Provides guidance and support to students in choosing courses, planning their academic careers, and navigating university resources.Libraries:
Offers access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and other research materials.Career Services:
Assists students in exploring career options, developing job search skills, and connecting with potential employers.Student Life:
Provides opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events.Residential Life:
Offers on-campus housing options for students, fostering a sense of community and providing support services.Dining:
Provides a variety of dining options on campus, catering to different dietary needs and preferences.Athletics:
Offers a variety of intercollegiate sports programs for students to participate in or cheer for.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at University at Albany can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events. The campus is located in a city setting, providing easy access to cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and dining options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Diverse Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, allowing students to pursue their interests and career goals.Strong Research Focus:
The university is a leading research institution, providing students with opportunities to engage in research projects and collaborate with faculty experts.Commitment to Public Engagement:
The university is deeply committed to serving the community and addressing societal challenges through research, outreach, and public service initiatives.Faculty Access:
The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to interact with and learn from their professors.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
Over 50 undergraduate majors across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, humanities, social sciences, business, education, and engineering.Graduate Programs:
A wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees, in fields such as business, education, public health, criminal justice, and the sciences.Online Learning:
Offers a variety of online courses and programs for students who prefer flexible learning options.Other:
The university has a strong alumni network, with over 195,000 alumni who support the university and its students. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, focusing on areas such as nanotechnology, public health, and environmental science.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- Bachelor's degree: You must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Coursework: 18 credits in library and information science or a related field.
- Relevant experience: 2 years of experience working in a library or information center.
- Three letters of recommendation: Two from academic sources and one from a professional source.
- Personal statement: This should address your interest in the program and your career goals.
- Résumé: This should highlight your relevant skills and experience.
International Overseas Students outside the EU:
- Bachelor's degree: You must hold an equivalent bachelor's degree from an internationally recognized institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- English language proficiency: You must demonstrate English language proficiency by achieving a minimum score on one of the following tests:
- TOEFL: 80
- IELTS: 6.5
- PTE Academic: 53
- Coursework: Same as for EU home students.
- Relevant experience: Same as for EU home students.
- Three letters of recommendation: Same as for EU home students.
- Personal statement: Same as for EU home students.
- Résumé: Same as for EU home students.
Additional Notes:
- All applicants are encouraged to submit a portfolio of their work.
- International students may be required to submit additional documentation, such as a financial affidavit.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- TOEFL: 80
- IELTS: 6.5
- PTE Academic: 53
Notes:
- These are the minimum required scores.
- Some students may be required to take additional English language courses before they can start the program.
- The language proficiency requirement may be waived for students who have completed a bachelor's degree from an English-speaking institution.
