
Graduate Certificate in Leadership in P12 Library Programs
Empower students and communities with the skills to lead innovative, resourceful, and effective school libraries through CU Denver’s online Leadership in P12 Library Programs certificate.
The Leadership in P12 Library Programs Graduate Certificate prepares educators, librarians, and paraprofessionals to enhance library services and support academic success in P12 schools.
- Designed for classified school library managers, paraprofessionals, and public librarians seeking additional credentials.
- Aligns with the Colorado State Library’s competencies for Highly Effective Schools Through Libraries (HESTL).
- Gain skills in planning, instructional delivery, technology integration, and program leadership.
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Degree LevelGraduate Certificate
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School & CollegeSchool of Education & Human Development
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Total Credit Hours9
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Class Type100% Online
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Time CommitmentFull-Time or Part-Time
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Start Term(s)Fall, Spring, Summer
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Program Overview
Over the course of the certificate, participants develop competencies in four key areas as identified by the Colorado State Libraries’ Highly Effective Schools Through Libraries (HESTL) program: planning, instructional partnerships, leadership, and library management.
The 21st century school library skills developed over the course of this certificate include:
- Goal setting
- Collaboration
- Instructional delivery strategies
- Literacy development
- Special programming and program marketing
- School leadership and administrative support
- Resource and collection development
- Technology integration
- Media literacy and learning-focused technology integration

The certificate is designed as a four‐course sequence. These four courses meet and enable librarians working with P12 students to better understand essential culturally responsive learning skills, digital pedagogy, information and media literacy, and the integration of learner-focused technology.
Tuition Breakdown
Resident | Non-Resident |
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$350* per credit | $350* per credit |
* See Graduate Student Tuition and Fees page for graduate tuition disclaimer.
Courses & Timeline
The certificate consists of three courses, totaling 9 credit hours, and may be earned in one year. You may join the certificate program at any point in the sequence.
Cultivating Learning Skill in Library Leadership (SCHL 5030)
This course covers library leadership, focusing on collaboration, innovation, and critical thinking to help students and staff develop essential learning skills for success.
Managing School Libraries (SCHL 5160)
This course covers school library organization, including project management, personnel, budgeting, leadership, and copyright/intellectual freedom issues.
Media Literacy (INTE 5300)
This course teaches students to create and evaluate media products for problem-solving while exploring the impact of mass media, popular culture, and digital media.
Promoting Literature in Schools (SCHL 5200)
This course explores the school library as a resource for promoting literacy in children and young adults, covering genres, advising on reading, and promoting various literacies.
Career Outlook
What is the Projected Salary of a Librarian and Library Media Specialist?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, librarians and library media specialists earned an annual median salary of $64,370 in 2023.

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.
As you consider an online education, we understand that it’s important for you to know that you’re getting a high-quality, affordable, and flexible online education that helps you reach your goals. That’s why the CU Denver Enrollment Team is available to offer guidance and answer any questions that you may have.

Tuition & Financial Aid
Investing in your future is a big decision. However, becoming a fully online student at CU Denver 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.
Tuition is determined based on which CU Denver program is chosen, undergraduate or graduate level, and your resident status. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.
Experience flexible, career-focused programs with CU Denver’s renowned quality—100% online—taught by expert faculty in engaging courses within a supportive community, all at an affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships available.

Flexible, career-focused programs with the same CU Denver quality—100% online.

Expert faculty, engaging courses, and a supportive online community.

Affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships for online students.

Take The Next Step
Ready to lead school library programs? Take the first step toward earning your online certificate by filling out the form above for more information or calling us at 303-860-5604.