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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.

Program at a Glance

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. 
  • Degree Level
    Graduate Certificate
  • School & College
    School of Education & Human Development
  • Total Credit Hours
    9
  • Class Type
    100% Online
  • Time Commitment
    Full-Time or Part-Time
  • 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
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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

Credit Cost for Residents and Non-Residents
ResidentNon-Resident
$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. 

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. 

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Guidance Every Step of the Way

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.

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Making College Accessible

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. 

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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.