Master’s in Library and Information Science - School Library Media Coordinator and Instructional Technology

Library media specialist and alumna Dawn Shirk supports students and teachers in Guilford County Schools.

Prepare to lead the future of teaching and learning with a Master’s of Library and Information Science (MLIS) – School Library Media Coordinator and Instructional Technology Dual Concentration at UNC Greensboro. This American Library Association-accredited program combines expertise in library science and educational technology to prepare you for leadership roles in K–12 schools. Through flexible online, on-campus, and hybrid learning options, you’ll develop the skills to manage innovative school library programs, integrate emerging technologies into instruction, and support student success while pursuing North Carolina licensure as both a school library media coordinator and an instructional technology specialist.

MASTER’S IN SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA COORDINATOR and Instructional Technology Program Distinctions

U.S. News & World Report rates UNCG #10 in the nation in the School Library Media Specialty Area and #29 in the country among Library and Information Studies programs.

This MLIS program is recognized by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction for licensure across several career tracks within the state’s public schools. Graduates are also eligible for North Carolina Public Library Certification.

UNCG’s School Library Media Coordinator and Instructional Technology program is available on campus, completely online, or through a combination of online and in-person coursework. This flexibility makes the program accessible to working educators and professionals while providing the same curriculum and faculty regardless of delivery format.

UNCG is one of the few programs that combines School Library Media Coordination and Instructional Technology into a single MLIS degree. Students develop expertise in both information literacy and educational technology, preparing them to support teaching and learning across the curriculum.

In 2025, 100% of UNCG’s school library students passed the School Librarian Praxis 5312.

The Experience for MLIS in SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA COORDINATOR and Instructional Technology Students

The interdisciplinary nature of the MLIS allows students from a variety of backgrounds — many of whom have experience as teachers or paraprofessionals — to gain the skills and expertise necessary to succeed in school libraries, educational technology, and leadership roles within the educational system.

By completing this concentration, students become eligible to apply for NC 076 and 077 licensure, empowering them to take on key roles in the integration of library media and instructional technology.

The curriculum includes core courses in topics such as Foundations of Library Science, Information Sources and Services, Library Administration and Management, and Information Organization and Access. Students gain practical experience through supervised field placements that allow them to apply classroom learning in authentic school settings. These experiences help students develop professional skills while building relationships within K–12 schools.

The MLIS School Library Capstone

The School Library Licensure capstone provides a professional‑level practicum experience in a working school library. Students apply learning through sustained practice under the supervision of a licensed school librarian or administrator.

Key features

  • 120 contact hours in a school library setting
  • Supervision by a licensed school librarian or administrator
  • Needs assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation
  • Portfolio aligned with professional standards

🔗 School Library Licensure capstone details and forms

Capstone Timing

All students complete LIS 693 (Capstone Practicum) in their final semester of the MLIS program.

When You Enter the Program

  • Meet with your advisor to review licensure requirements and your plan of study.
  • Plan carefully—there is limited room for electives.
  • Upload required materials to your Hallmark Planning Guide at the end of each semester.

One Semester Before Your Final Semester

  • Meet with your advisor to complete the Final Semester Checklist.
  • Register for LIS 693 and indicate preferred libraries, school districts, and grade levels.
  • Complete the required University background check ($28).
  • Questions about placement or requirements? Contact Tammy S. Gruer gruert@uncg.edu

Major Assignments

  • Evidence‑Based Goal Project (based on a needs assessment)
  • Collaborative Teaching Lesson – Lesson plan, recording, and reflection required
  • Hallmark Project – Electronic portfolio demonstrating AASL Standards proficiency
  • Professional Development Plan – Lesson plan and reflection required

Additional Information Regarding the MLIS in SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA COORDINATOR and Instructional Technology

Students who do not currently have a teaching certificate must take additional educational coursework. That coursework may include field experiences, educational psychology, and educational foundations. These courses may be taken at either the undergraduate or graduate level. UNCG courses that are 500-level or above may count as electives in the MLIS program with the approval of the program coordinator. Students who have taken comparable courses in an undergraduate program will not have to repeat these courses for the education requirement. The program coordinator will evaluate transcripts to determine which, if any, additional education requirements are needed.

After Graduating with an MLIS in SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA COORDINATOR and Instructional Technology

The MLIS in School Library and Instructional Technology dual concentration degree program prepares students for leadership positions in schools, libraries, and educational technology settings, equipping them with the skills to manage school library programs, integrate technology into curriculum, and support digital literacy initiatives across diverse educational environments.

Typically, 95% of UNCG’s school library students are hired prior to graduation.

The U.S. Department of Education requires that all higher education institutions advise students as to whether their curriculum provides them with the eligibility to apply for a professional license and/or certification in the state for which they plan to practice. As such, please review UNC Greensboro’s status by state for the initial teaching license. You should note whether the program either “meets”, “does not meet”, or if there “has not been a determination” of the program’s status in the state for which you plan to practice. Licensure Reciprocity Information

Want more information? Let’s get started!

Loading...

Program Details

Degree Type: Master's

College/School: School of Education

Program Type: Majors & Concentrations

Class Type: In Person,Online

Catalog Name: Library and Information Science, M.L.I.S. School Library Media Coordinator and Instructional Technology Dual Concentration

Contact Us

headshot of Joanna Depolt
Joanna Depolt
Lecturer/Director of Graduate Studies
jldepot@uncg.edu