The School of Library and Information Science at San José State University (SJSU) recently announced changes to its fully online Teacher Librarian program. Students who are pursuing a Teacher Librarian Services Credential need only complete 31 credits (11 courses) instead of the previously required 37 credits (13 courses). The new course requirements took effect in January 2014, and apply to both current and new students.

The changes to the Teacher Librarian program course requirements were implemented in response to new standards set by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), which grants the professional license that allows candidates to work as professional librarians in California K–12 schools. The coursework may also meet other state’s Department of Education requirements.

According to the Teacher Librarian program coordinator Dr. Mary Ann Harlan, this reduction in units allows students “more discretion in planning their course of study, especially in regard to the amount of units they take per semester.” It also opens up more choice in electives for those who want to continue their studies and earn their Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree. With the new changes to the Teacher Librarian program, MLIS candidates have the opportunity to take three additional electives, which can broaden their knowledge and skill sets and future career paths.

The Teacher Librarian program coursework is approved by the CTC and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Students interested in receiving a Teacher Librarian Services Credential from a state other than California should check with that state’s Department of Education to make sure it accepts the SJSU information school’s Teacher Librarian program coursework for its credential requirements.

Related Content:

• Learn more about the teacher librarianship career pathway
• Read stories about Teacher Librarian program students and alumni
• Browse the Teacher Librarian program FAQs