Highly Effective School Libraries

Program Details

Over the course of the certificate, participants will develop competencies in four key areas as identified by the Colorado State Libraries’ Highly Effective School Library Program: planning, instructional support, leadership and library management. The 21st century school library skills developed over the course of this certificate include:

Goal setting
Collaboration
Instructional delivery strategies
Assessment of student work
Reading development
Special programming and program marketing
School leadership and administrative support
Resource and collection development
Technology integration
Media literacy and learning-focused integration of technology

Certificate Structure
The certificate is designed as a three‐course sequence. These three courses meet the standards of 21st century school librarians and enable the school librarians to better understand 21st century learning skills, digital literacy and the integration of technology that aligns with the Colorado State Standards and is expected in highly effective school library programs.

Tuition and Fees

Investing in your future is a big decision. However, becoming a fully online student at the University of Colorado is a high-quality and affordable option for learners of all types. Tuition and fees are based largely on the degree program you enroll in.

The tuition amount assessed is determined based on which University of Colorado campus, school, or college is offering your degree program, as well as if it is at the undergrad or graduate level, and finally your resident status. Visit our tuition and financial aid page for more information.

Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.

Timeline

The certificate consists of three courses, totaling 9 credit hours, and may be earned in one year. You may join into the certificate at any point in the sequence.

Admissions

Admission requirements and deadlines vary based on the program. In addition, you will have different requirements depending on if you are a first-time student, a transfer student or an international student.

Learn more about the admissions process by filling out the form above or contacting an Enrollment Navigator today.

Example Courses

SCHL 5030 — Information Literacy
This course discusses teaching, assessment and integration of information literacy skills in addition to reference collection development, policies and procedures, and use of reference tools, including electronic resources. Emphasis is placed on standards-based collaborative planning and instruction with classroom teachers.

SCHL 5160 — Managing School Libraries
This course discusses case studies in the organization and administration of school library and instructional leadership of programs and projects. Topics include project management, personnel administration, budget development, management strategies, copyright and intellectual freedom.

INTE 5300 — Media Literacy
In this course, students learn to create, use, extend and evaluate media products to support decision-making and real world problem-solving. Students also become more aware of the significant role of mass media, popular culture and digital media in our lives.

SCHL 5200 — Promoting Literature in Schools
This course approaches the school library as a resource to promote literacy and development in children and young adults. Topics include genres of literature, methods for advising students towards appropriate reading and media resources, and the promotion of multiple literacies including information, new media and transliteracy.