Simmons University offers two post-Master's programs for School Library Teacher Licensure: one for Master's in Library Science holders and one for Education Degree holders. Both programs provide the necessary coursework and field experience to meet Massachusetts licensure requirements. Graduates are prepared for careers as school librarians, curriculum development specialists, and literacy experts.

Degree Overview:

Simmons University offers two post-Master's degree programs for School Library Teacher Licensure:

• Program for Master's in Library Science Holders: This program is designed for individuals who hold a Master's degree in Library Science and are seeking licensure as a School Library Teacher by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
• Program for Education Degree Holders: This program is designed for teachers who hold a Master's Degree in education and an initial or professional Massachusetts License as a teacher, a Master of Arts degree in teaching, or a Master's degree in a related field along with an initial or professional Massachusetts Teacher Licensure.
Applicants must have a minimum of three years of teaching experience in a Massachusetts public school.

Outline:

For Library Science Master's Degree Holders:

• Required Courses for Licensure:
• LIS406: Management and Evaluation of School Library Programs (3 credits)
• LIS415: Information Organization (3 credits)
• LIS459: Fundamentals of School Librarianship (3 credits)
• LIS460: Technology and the School Library Teacher (3 credits)
• LIS461: Curriculum and Instructional Strategies for the School Library Teacher (3 credits)
• LIS481: Library Collections and Materials for Children (3 credits)
• LIS483: Library Collections and Materials for Young Adults (3 credits)
• LIS498: Practicum (PreK-8) (3 credits)
• LIS499: Practicum (7-12) (3 credits)
• Fieldwork:
• Students must complete field-based pre-practicum experiences (fieldwork) before beginning their practicum experience.
• Fieldwork is introduced in LIS 406, where students observe in public school libraries.
• Additional fieldwork is incorporated into LIS 459, LIS 481, and LIS 483.
• Fieldwork projects must be completed in a public school library in Massachusetts.
• At the discretion of the program director, other courses or experiences can be substituted for part of this requirement.
• LIS 495: Practicum Equivalent Experience (pre K - 12) can be substituted for one of the practica if the candidate has been hired as the professional school library teacher of record.

For Education Degree Holders:

• Required Courses:
• LIS406: Management and Evaluation of School Library Programs (3 credits)
• LIS415: Information Organization (3 credits)
• LIS460: Technology and the School Library Teacher (3 credits)
• LIS461: Curriculum and Instructional Strategies for the School Library Teacher (3 credits)
• LIS481: Library Collections and Materials for Children (3 credits)
• LIS483: Library Collections and Materials for Young Adults (3 credits)
• Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL):
• If the student's prior teaching license did not require them to take and pass the Communication and Literacy Skills Test of the MTEL, they will be required to do so prior to applying for the school library teacher license.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
• Elementary school librarian
• School library teacher
• Secondary school librarian
• Curriculum development and literacy specialist
• Opportunities:
• School library teachers are well-suited to lead the way in curriculum development, technology integration, and literacy initiatives.
• Outcomes:

Other:

• Simmons University is ranked among the best schools of library and information science in the nation by U.S. News and World Report.
• The program is designed to be completed in 86 weeks.
• The program costs $16,800 if completed within normal time.
• The program meets licensure requirements in Massachusetts.
• The program is offered as a Certificate.
• The program is offered on campus.
• The program is offered by the School of Library and Information Science.

Simmons University

Overview:

Simmons University is a private university located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is known for its focus on women's leadership and its commitment to social justice. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online options, and is recognized for its real-world learning opportunities and integrated career advising.

Services Offered:

Simmons University provides a variety of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Campus Dining:

A variety of dining options on campus.

Community Engagement:

Opportunities for students to engage in social justice initiatives and community service.

Student Support & Resources:

A range of resources to support student success, including academic support, counseling, and health services.

Library:

Access to a comprehensive library with extensive resources.

Athletics:

A variety of athletic programs and opportunities for students to participate in sports.

Events:

A calendar of events and activities for students to participate in.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Simmons University offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

A small college feel:

A close-knit campus community with a focus on student support and engagement.

A dynamic city location:

Located in the heart of Boston, students have access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Real-world learning opportunities:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

A commitment to inclusivity:

A welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

Key Reasons to Study There:

Real-world learning:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

Integrated career advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Accelerated graduate programs:

Shorten the time to a graduate degree with accelerated undergraduate to graduate programs.

Location in Boston:

Access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Commitment to social justice:

A focus on women's leadership and social justice initiatives.

Academic Programs:

Simmons University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

A variety of majors and minors in fields such as business, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

Graduate programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, law, and social work.

Online programs:

A range of online undergraduate and graduate programs for adult learners.

Other:

Simmons University has been recognized with the 2024 Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose, which acknowledges its commitment to leadership and the collective public good. The university also has a strong alumni network and offers a variety of resources for alumni to stay connected.