School Library Media K-12
The Master of Library and Information Science with a focus on School Library Media at Kent State prepares educators to manage school library programs effectively. This online program explores instructional technology, resource management, and literacy promotion, equipping graduates to foster engaging and resource-rich library environments. Ideal for educators looking to specialize, the program supports student learning and information literacy development.
School Library Media K-12 Master’s Degree Program Overview
The Master of Library and Information Science degree in School Library Media K-12 prepares students to apply for multi-age licensure in school library media. The program curriculum is based in both practice and theory and includes library science and educational technology courses. The theoretical content is aligned with the American Library Association, the American Association of School Librarians national standards and the Ohio state standards for school libraries.
Students are given opportunities to apply their learning in practical environments through a culminating experience and other options. Graduates are prepared to work in all types of libraries.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:
- Apply the field’s foundational theories, principles, values, ethics and skills to everyday practice in a school library context.
- Critique and synthesize research and identify appropriate research methodologies to solve problems in the school librarianship field.
- Analyze and engage in the changing cultural, educational and social roles and responsibilities of librarians and the educational environments they work in within the global society.
- Evaluate systems and technologies relevant to a school librarianship context
- Identify needs and connect kindergarten-to-grade-12 stakeholders (students, teachers, administrators) and communities with information that engages and empowers them.
Professional Licensure Disclosure
This program is designed to prepare students to sit for applicable licensure or certification in Ohio. If you plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Ohio, please review state educational requirements for licensure or certification and contact information for state licensing boards at Kent State’s website for professional licensure disclosure.
Dual Degree - MEd Educational Technology/MLIS School Library Media K-12
Students can complete a dual degree program with the M.Ed. degree in Educational Technology and the M.L.I.S. degree in School Library Media K-12. A separate application must be submitted for each program.
The M.Ed./M.L.I.S. dual degree program leads to a multi-age initial licensure in school library media. This program prepares students to work in all types of libraries, including school libraries. The program of study includes professional educational requirements, along with library science and educational technology courses.
Accreditation
The M.L.I.S. degree in School Library Media K-12 is approved by the American Library Association and accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
School Library Media K-12 Master’s Degree Program Admissions Requirements
For more information about graduate admissions, visit the graduate admission website. For more information on international admissions, visit the international admission website.
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Minimum 2.750 undergraduate GPA on a 4.000-point scale1
- Official transcript(s)
- Résumé or curriculum vita
- Student profile form2
- Starting with spring 2026 admission term, a statement of exception addressing circumstances and readiness for graduate education will be required
- Application essay, see guidelines below
- Three letters of recommendation3 (starting with spring 2026 admission term, two letters of recommendation will be required)
- English language proficiency - all international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions to waive) by earning one of the following:4
- Minimum 94 TOEFL iBT score
- Minimum 7.0 IELTS score
- Minimum 65 PTE score
- Minimum 120 DET score
1In calculating the total GPA, all grades from all courses taken at relevant level (baccalaureate or master’s) from all institutions are required. Applicants who do not meet the minimum 2.750 GPA requirement must submit a statement that addresses the circumstances that contributed to the GPA and preparation for success in graduate study. Applicants should include recent professional achievements that indicate an ability to perform at a higher academic level to be considered for conditional admission to the program.
2The student profile form is embedded in the online application.
3References should be able to attest that the applicant possesses the ability and skills needed to succeed in graduate study. Generally the best references are professors, but senior-level managers from the workplace can also serve well. Letters should include a signature and be submitted on the sender’s company or organization letterhead.
4International applicants who do not meet the above test scores will not be considered for admission.
Guidelines for the Essay
The application essay showcases an applicant’s readiness for graduate-level writing. Applicants should discuss the following questions based on their exploration of the Kent State iSchool website, as well as their own reflection on their academic abilities, experiences and personal qualities. Applicants are welcome to add comments from supplemental research and readings (cite in American Psychological Association [APA] style), observations and experience.
The essay should be fewer than 1,000 words and formatted in APA style. Any content that is not the applicant’s own original thoughts must be properly attributed.
The School of Information values highly interdisciplinary synergy with regard to faculty research and teaching, its students and its contributions to the library and information science profession. Applicants should answer the following questions in their essay:
- What are the critical issues in the field of library and information science?
- What are your aspirations in the field of library and information science?
- What will you contribute to the Kent State iSchool community and to the field as a whole?
Program Courses
Program Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Major Requirements (min C grade required in all courses) | ||
| LIS 60020 | INFORMATION ORGANIZATION | 3 |
| LIS 60030 | PEOPLE IN THE INFORMATION ECOLOGY | 3 |
| LIS 60050 | RESEARCH AND ASSESSMENT IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE | 3 |
| LIS 60607 | SCHOOL LIBRARY MANAGEMENT | 3 |
| LIS 60617 | INFORMATION LITERACY FOR YOUTH | 3 |
| LIS 60624 | CATALOGING FOR SCHOOL LIBRARIES | 3 |
| LIS 60626 | ENGAGING TEENS | 3 |
| LIS 60629 | ENGAGING SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN | 3 |
| LIS 60630 | REFERENCE SOURCES AND SERVICES FOR YOUTH | 3 |
| Major Electives, choose from the following: | 6 | |
| ETEC 57400 | TRENDS IN EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY | |
| ETEC 57427 | TECHNOLOGY AND LEARNING | |
| ETEC 67420 | RESEARCH ISSUES IN EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY | |
| ETEC 67425 | MANAGING TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE | |
| LIS 60675 | YOUTH MEDIA CULTURES | |
| Culminating Requirement | ||
| LIS 60099 | MASTER’S PORTFOLIO IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE | 1 |
| LIS 60792 | CULMINATING EXPERIENCE PRACTICUM IN K-12 LIBRARIES | 3 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 37 | |
Graduation Requirements
Candidates seeking Ohio licensure are required to pass specific assessments in order to apply for licensure. Students should consult their advisors for specific program requirements and refer the Ohio Department of Education–Educator Preparation website for information on assessments specific to licensure type. Applicants interested in obtaining school library media licensure or certification outside the state of Ohio should refer to the requirements established by their state education agencies.
School Library Media K-12 Master’s Degree Program Tuition and Fees
Ohio Residents
| Per Credit Hour | Per 3-Credit Course | Approximate Tuition Cost |
| $829 | $2,487 | $30,700 |
Non-Ohio Residents
| Per Credit Hour | Per 3-Credit Course | Approximate Tuition Cost |
| $839 | $2,517 | $31,000 |
An additional Distance Learning fee for all students enrolled in a distance learning course is $15 per credit hour. Program tuition and costs are estimated and subject to change.
Actual tuition costs may vary based on a student’s chosen academic plan. For a complete listing of tuition rates for approved online programs, please contact Kent State’s Financial, Billing & Enrollment Center at 330-672-6000 or via our website Contact Us link.
The total program costs are estimates and are not final or binding. Program costs are based on standard fees, but fees may vary based on the actual classes taken. Kent State University disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance upon these program cost estimates by any person. Program costs are subject to change without notice.
*Out-of-state/International tuition includes a surcharge of $10 per credit hour for all students enrolled in an online program.
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