In today’s fast-paced world of ever-changing technology, librarians play an important role in helping people access information.
Today’s librarians curate electronic collections, help researchers find credible sources and strive to ensure that students can identify, find, evaluate and use information effectively.
With that in mind, Trevecca Nazarene University is excited to announce the relaunch of the University’s master’s degree program in library and information science.
“School librarians today play a pivotal role in preparing P-12 students to be college-, career- and life-ready,” said Dr. Judy Bivens, director of the program. “Creating a learning environment for all members of the learning community affords all stakeholders access to information globally. Having a master’s in library and information science from Trevecca will put graduates on the cutting edge of teaching, learning and emerging technologies.”
Previously offered as a face-to-face on-campus program, the relaunch will be offered entirely online, which University officials say will provide increased flexibility for students.
“Trevecca’s master’s in library and information science program is nationally recognized for providing academic rigor and focusing on national library standards,” said Dr. Suzann Harris, dean of Trevecca’s School of Education. “The online format provides both flexible and engaging learning environments for today’s busy professionals. All of the School of Education programs are fully accredited by state and national accrediting bodies which demonstrates the significance of being aligned to national standards.”
A 30-credit hour program, the master’s degree in library and information science can be completed in 15 months. Nationally recognized by the American Association of School Librarians and the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation, the program prepares students to be instructional design and technology specialists, with a concentrated focus on grades PreK-12.
The curriculum will prepare students seeking licensure as school library information specialists for the Praxis Specialty Test for Library Media Specialists. Trevecca does offer an endorsement option for educators who are already licensed and have a master’s degree in teaching.
Students will complete coursework in research tools and strategy, knowledge management, instructional design and information technologies with a strong emphasis on teaching and learning strategies.
This dual emphasis on teaching and technology is intentional, Bivens says.
“Our curriculum primarily focuses on teaching and learning,” Bivens said. “This sets Trevecca’s program apart from those whose primary focus is technology. Graduates of this program will be able to effectively integrate the latest information technology into their teaching practice while also crafting engaging student interactions.
That’s something Connie Sharpe, a librarian training and development specialist with the Metro Nashville Public School (MNPS) system, values. A 2005 of Trevecca’s former face-to-face program and the 2015 MNPS Elementary School Librarian of the Year, she is grateful for what she learned through Trevecca’s program as well as the connections it provided her.
“It was through Trevecca’s cohort model that I built strong academic relationships with professors and colleagues that have made a lasting impact on both my personal and professional life,” Sharpe said.
To learn more about the program or apply, visit trevecca.edu/MLIS. Classes begin in June 2019.
Media contact: Mandy Crow, mmcrow@trevecca.edu, 615-248-1695