School Library and Information Technology, M.A.

Program Director: Katie McNamara, M.A.

Teacher Librarian

The mission of the Teacher Librarian Program at Fresno Pacific University is to prepare professional educators to develop and maintain high quality library media and curricular programs by serving as information and technology specialists, instructional leaders, and collaborative partners in K-12 schools.

Fresno Pacific University Education Unit's Mission 

Fresno Pacific University's Education Unit seeks to prepare educators whose calling it is to be scholars, peacemakers, professionals, and leaders who carry out the beliefs of the Fresno Pacific University Idea in their diverse educational settings. 

The Fresno Pacific Idea 

The Fresno Pacific Idea reflects the university's interpretation of what it means to be a community of learners committed to a distinctive vision of Christian higher education. The Idea serves as a center for reflection and action and as a guide for forming a vision of the future. Rooted in the past and continuously re-shaped by the present, the Idea provides a foundation for the university's understanding of itself and of the mission to which it is called. 

Program Overview

The Teacher Librarian Program offers coursework leading to a Master of Arts in Education degree with a school library and information technology emphasis. The effective teacher librarian (also known as school librarian, library media teacher, and library media specialist) works collaboratively with classroom teachers to develop and implement standards-based learning experiences for diverse student populations; selects, organizes, manages, and promotes the use of learning resources in all formats; and instructs students and staff in the critical evaluation, appropriate access, and effective use of information.

The Master of Arts coursework builds upon the Teacher Librarian Services Credential coursework by guiding candidates in the development of a written thesis focused on original research related to the school library program.  A minimum of 37 semester units are required for a Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in school library and information technology.

Admissions Process and Requirements

Admission to the Fresno Pacific University Master of Arts in Education: School Library and Information Technology program is based on a review of each applicant's academic achievements, work experience, and personal statement by the admission committee.

Application Process

To be considered for admission to the MA in Education: School Library and Information Technology program, please submit the following items:

• Completed Application for Admission and $45 non-refundable application fee.
  • Fpu.edu/applygrad
• Official college/university transcript(s) verifying receipt of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and any post-baccalaureate work.
  • If you are currently finishing up your degree, please submit current transcript.
  • A final transcript will need to be submitted before you may enroll in classes.
  • Transcripts can be sent electronically by your institution to trans.evaluator@fresno.edu or via mail in an enveloped sealed by your institution to:

Fresno Pacific University

Office of the Registrar

1717 S. Chestnut Ave

Fresno, CA 93702

• If your cumulative GPA for your bachelor's degree is below a 3.0 (4.0 scale), a letter of explanation is required.
• Reference Form – One reference is required for the MA in Education: School Library and Information Technology program. The reference should attest to your professional qualities and your academic qualifications, noting your ability to complete graduate-level work.
  • Form can be found at fpu.edu/graduate-reference
• Statement of Intent – Provide a written statement explaining your interest in the program, long-term goals and your experience in the field.
• Program Interview – After submitting your application materials including transcripts, a representative will contact you to schedule an interview.
• Valid CA teaching credential

Notification of acceptance will be sent as soon as all necessary documents are on file and have been reviewed by the admissions committee.

Please view other admission policies and information in the Admissions Policies and Requirements section of the catalog.

View our State Professional Licensing and Certificate Disclosure at fpu.edu/about/disclosure-documents.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. Teaching for Learning The program provides opportunities for candidates to use a variety of instructional strategies and assessment tools, including current and emerging technologies, to design, develop and implement standards-based learning experiences independently and in collaboration with teachers and other members of the educational community.
2. Multiple Literacies The program provides opportunities for candidates to demonstrate: the promotion of reading for learning, personal growth and enjoyment; collaboration with educational partners to support student learning; and development of multiple literacies throughout all disciplines.
3. Information and Knowledge The program provides opportunities for candidates to model and promote ethical and equitable access to physical, digital and virtual collections by students and staff.
4. Leadership and Advocacy The teacher librarian preparation program provides opportunities for candidates to articulate and advocate for effective school library programs and positive learning environments that focus on student learning and achievement.
5. Program Administration The program provides opportunities for candidates to examine best practices to plan, develop, budget for, implement, and assess school library programs.
6. Diversity and Equity The program provides opportunities for candidates to effectively instruct and support all learners in their role as teacher librarians.
7. Information and Digital Literacy as Academic Content Areas The program provides opportunities for candidates to demonstrate their knowledge of information and digital literacy, including the nature, architecture, and cycle of information, technology resources and tools.
8. Pedagogy of Information and Digital Literacy in Multiple Learning Environments The program provides opportunities for candidates, using both traditional and digital methods, to design and provide curriculum in information and digital literacy to enable students to process information purposefully, ethically and effectively.

Locations Offered

Online

Semester Starts

Candidates may begin the program in the fall or the spring semester. The program can be completed in 3-3.5 years.