Take part in exciting conversations! Above: Children's author and poet Kwame Alexander addresses a meeting of the American Library Association.
Apply
As you near completion of your program and your name has been added to the intent to graduate list, you will be sent instructions for your application by Thomma Grindstaff, Certification Officer for ETSU's Clemmer College. For more information, you may contact Ms. Grindstaff by email at: grindstt@etsu.edu; by phone at 423-439-7562, or in person at 305 Warf-Pickel Hall.
Licensure
The School Librarianship degree also serves those who seek initial licensure at the graduate level.
Initial licensure students must complete the thirty-nine hour Master's degree program, which includes a fifteen week Residency requirement. The main thrust of this particular option is a systematic approach to the principles of instructional design, production, dissemination and management of learning resources, and application of AASL standards to the practice of school librarianship. As of July 1, 2026, initial licensure candidates will need to complete a robust residency experience and pass the Praxis II for School Library Media per Tennessee Department of Education requirements.
Residency
Candidates who hold a valid Tennessee Educators license are not required to complete a full-time residency, unlike initial licensure students, who, as of July 1, 2025, will be required to complete a full 15-week robust residency experience.
Praxis
All individuals seeking school librarian certification will need to pass the the PRAXIS II Library Media Specialist (5312) Test with a minimum score of 154.The test code number is 5312. It is suggested the test be taken after completing MEDA 5710 and/or during the last semester. Students usually take this exam during Practicum I, MEDA 5926.
This link provides information about the Praxis that you will take for your School Librarianship endorsement.
Reciprocity
More than 40 States have educator licensure reciprocity with Tennessee through the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, to include all Southeastern States. Through this agreement, graduates seeking licensure in another state simply complete an out-of-state application that includes a verification form signifying enrollment in ETSU's program. For more information, contact Thomma Grindstaff at: grindstt@etsu.edu