Online Master's in Library Media (MEd) Degree Program
Program Overview
The University of West Alabama's online Master's in Library Media program equips educators with the skills and knowledge to excel as school library media specialists. The program, composed of 33 credit hours, offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on school library media management, reference and information services, and other relevant topics. Delivered entirely online, the program provides flexibility and affordability for educators across Alabama, leading to Alabama Teaching Certification upon completion.
Program Outline
The program focuses on transforming education through instructional media and school library services.
- Objectives: The program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in:
- School library media management
- Reference services
- Other relevant topics related to school library media
- Program Description: The program is fully online, making it accessible to educators across the state of Alabama.
Outline:
- Program Length: 1-2 years
- Credit Hours: 33
- Course Length: 8 weeks
- Cost Per Credit: $429
- Alabama Teaching Certification: Yes
- Course Structure: The program is divided into two main areas:
- Professional Courses (9 credit hours):
- CO 547 Counseling Multicultural Populations (3 credit hours)
- ED 504 Techniques of Educational Research (3 credit hours)
- ED 505 Technology and Education (3 credit hours)
- Note: Students who have not met the special education requirement must take SE 500 or a previous general special education course and CO 547.
- Certification Area (24 credit hours):
- LM 506 Literature for Children and Young Adults (3 credit hours)
- LM 561 Instructional Media (3 credit hours)
- LM 563 School Library Media Center Management (3 credit hours)
- LM 564 Critical Issues in School Library Services (3 credit hours)
- LM 565 Reference Services and Information Storage and Retrieval (3 credit hours)
- LM 566 Libraries and Legal Issues (3 credit hours) However, it is likely that assessments will include a combination of:
- Assignments
- Exams
- Projects
- Participation in online discussions
- Assessment Criteria: The program requires a minimum GPA of 3.25 in all courses, with no grade below a "C." Students must also pass the Praxis II examination.
Teaching:
- Teaching Methods: The program is delivered entirely online, utilizing a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Asynchronous learning materials
- Synchronous online sessions
- Interactive activities
- Discussion forums
- Faculty: The program is taught by experienced and qualified faculty members who are experts in the field of library media.
- Unique Approaches: The program features a Mentor Collective program, which connects students with mentors for one-on-one support and guidance throughout their studies.
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths: Graduates of the program are qualified to work as:
- School library media specialists
- Library media teachers
- Educational technology specialists
- Opportunities: The program prepares students for a variety of career opportunities in educational settings, including:
- Public schools
- Private schools
- Higher education institutions
- Libraries
- Outcomes: The program aims to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to:
- Effectively manage school library media centers
- Integrate technology into the curriculum
- Promote literacy and lifelong learning
Other:
- Program Requirements: To be eligible for the program, students must:
- Hold a valid bachelor's-level Professional Educator Certificate in the same teaching field(s) as the Master's Level Certificate being sought.
- Meet all requirements for admission to the School of Graduate Studies, including fingerprints/verification of background clearance and two years of satisfactory educational experience.
- A personal success coach to answer questions and provide assistance
- Financial Aid: UWA offers a range of financial aid options to help students afford their education, including grants, scholarships, and loans.
- Transfer Credit: UWA may accept up to 9 hours of transfer credit at the graduate level for matching courses and curriculums.
Tuition Fees:
- Graduate tuition is $429 per credit hour.
- There is a $60 technology fee each semester.
University of West Alabama
Overview:
The University of West Alabama (UWA) is a public university located in Livingston, Alabama. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online learning opportunities. UWA prides itself on providing a supportive and immersive educational experience with a focus on hands-on learning.
Services Offered:
UWA offers a range of services to support students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, and writing centers.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, and loan programs.Student Life:
Clubs and organizations, Greek life, intramural and varsity athletics, recreational activities, dining options, and comfortable dorms.Health Services:
Health information and resources.Library:
The Julia Tutwiler Library provides access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and databases.Technology:
Access to computer labs, wireless internet, and other technology resources.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UWA offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for students to get involved in a variety of activities. Students can join clubs and organizations, participate in Greek life, compete in intramural and varsity athletics, enjoy recreational activities on the 54-acre lake and in the Livingston area, and take advantage of the various dining options and comfortable dorms.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Small Class Sizes:
UWA boasts a low student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized attention and a more intimate learning environment.Supportive Faculty:
A high percentage of UWA faculty hold the highest-level degrees in their disciplines, providing students with access to experienced and knowledgeable instructors.Financial Aid Opportunities:
A significant portion of UWA students receive financial aid, making a quality education more accessible.Hands-on Learning:
UWA emphasizes practical experience and real-world application of knowledge.Vibrant Campus Life:
UWA offers a variety of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities and build lasting connections.Academic Programs:
UWA offers a wide range of academic programs across various colleges and divisions, including:
College of Business
College of Education
College of Liberal Arts
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Division of Engineering and Technology
Division of Nursing
School of Graduate Studies
Entry Requirements:
To be admitted to the online Master's in Library Media (MEd) program at the University of West Alabama, prospective students must meet the following requirements:
- Admission to the School of Graduate Studies: This includes:
- Fingerprints/verification of background clearance
- Two years of satisfactory educational experience
- Hold a valid bachelor's-level Professional Educator Certificate.
- Educational Experience: This is defined as teaching experience and instructional support experience, including full-time educational work in:
- Any state or local public school, regionally accredited postsecondary school, educational agency, or educational association
- An accredited, state registered, state-approved, and/or church-related nonpublic school
