Those wishing to obtain a master's degree in library science in Tennessee have several options. When considering careers in library science, the most general path is to pursue a master's degree in Library and Information Science. Of these programs, only 62 are American Library Association-accredited, and only one of these accredited programs is in Tennessee. The other option is to specialize in school libraries. School librarianship also requires a master's level education in library science, which is normally achieved by earning a master's degree with a specialty in school librarianship from a program that is recognized by the American Association of School Librarians. Tennessee has four programs that will lead to a master's degree or certification in library science.
The University of Tennessee
The University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tennessee, has the only ALA-accredited library science program in the state. The M.S. in Information Science requires 42 credit hours with a thesis and non-thesis option. In addition to face-to-face coursework, UTK offers distance education that is delivered synchronously, in real time, or asynchronously, available at anytime. UTK also offers a School Library Media Specialist endorsement.
University of Tennessee 451 Communication Building Knoxville, TN 37996 865-974-2148 sis.utk.edu
Trevecca Nazarene University
Trevecca Nazarene University offers a library science degree through the School of Education. The MLIS program, the equivalent of a Master's in Library Science with a focus on preparing educators to be school librarians, is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and recognized by the American Association of School Librarians--a division of the American Library Association. The degree requires 33 credit hours as well as 200 practicum hours.
Trevecca Nazarene University 333 Murfreesboro Road Nashville, TN 37210 615-248-1556 trevecca.edu
The University of Memphis
The University of Memphis offers an AASL/NCATE-accredited School Library Information Specialist endorsement, offered through the School of Education. The endorsement, which is offered online, requires six courses, with additional courses required if the student does not already hold a master's degree. The combination of the Master's in Education and the endorsement is the equivalent of the Master's in Library Science.
University of Memphis 215 Ball Hall Memphis, TN, 38152 901-678-4265 memphis.edu
East Tennessee State University
East Tennessee State University offers a School Library Media Certification through the School of Education. The certification can be obtained through a 36 credit hour master's degree in Educational Media and Educational Technology, or as a 24 credit hour endorsement to a NCATE-accredited master's degree in education. The combination of the Master's in Education and the endorsement is the equivalent of the Master's in Library Science.
East Tennessee State University 401 Warf-Pickel Hall PO Box 70684 Johnson City, TN 37614 423-439-7595 etsu.edu
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Writer Bio
Eliza Burke is a librarian and a writer. Since 2005 she has written for several professional publications as well as reviewing books and media for "Library Journal" and "Booklist." Burke holds an M.L.I.S. from Dominican University, and is currently pursuing an M.A.