School librarians in Tennessee must hold endorsement 473, which requires a master's degree and the Praxis Library Media Specialist exam.
Public and academic librarians need no state license, but most employers expect an ALA-accredited MLIS from programs like UTK.
Tennessee pays school librarians on the same salary schedule as classroom teachers, with higher lanes for master's degree holders.
Career changers without a teaching license can enter through the Practitioner License route while completing required coursework.
Tennessee treats school, public, and academic librarians as three separate credential tracks, each governed by a different authority. School librarians must hold endorsement 473 on a Tennessee educator license. Public and academic librarians answer to hiring boards that typically expect an ALA-accredited master's degree but face no state licensure mandate. The distinction matters because the education you need, the exams you take, and the timeline to employment differ sharply depending on which path you follow.
One of the most common questions prospective candidates ask is whether a teaching license is required to enter a school library. It is not. Tennessee's Practitioner License route lets career changers begin working in a school library while completing coursework, a critical option given ongoing demand for qualified library information specialists across the state. Other southeastern states structure their requirements differently; for instance, how to become a librarian in north carolina involves its own set of credentials and timelines worth comparing if you are weighing options in the region.
Types of Librarians in Tennessee: School, Public, and Academic
Before mapping out your education plan, it is important to understand that Tennessee has three main categories of librarians, and each one answers to a completely different credentialing authority. The degree you need, the license you pursue, and even the hiring process will depend on which path you choose.
School Librarians
School librarians in Tennessee work in K-12 settings and fall under the authority of the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE). This is the most heavily regulated path of the three. To work as a school librarian in a Tennessee public school, you must hold a valid Tennessee teaching license combined with the Library Information Specialist endorsement (Endorsement 473). This state-regulated credential requires specific coursework in library science and, in most cases, passing the relevant Praxis exam. Because TDOE governs the process, requirements are standardized across every public school district in the state. If you are exploring how to become a school librarian in Tennessee without a teaching license, know that you will still need to obtain one, though alternative licensure pathways exist to help career changers meet that requirement. Candidates considering a dedicated graduate program should explore online MLIS school librarianship options that align with Tennessee's endorsement coursework. For a broader look at how other states handle this credential, see our overview of school librarian certification requirements nationwide.
Public Librarians
Public librarians serve communities through city, county, and regional library systems. Unlike the school setting, Tennessee does not require public librarians to hold a state-issued license. The credentialing authority for public libraries rests largely with the Tennessee State Library and Archives, which sets guidelines and provides support but does not mandate individual licensure.
That said, most public library systems in Tennessee strongly prefer or explicitly require candidates to hold a master's degree in library science (MLS or MLIS), especially for professional-level positions. Director roles at larger library systems may carry statutory education requirements tied to the size of the population served. Entry-level paraprofessional positions sometimes accept a bachelor's degree, but advancement without a master's is limited.
Academic Librarians
Academic librarians work in college and university libraries, and their credentials are determined by the hiring institution rather than by any state agency. There is no state license or endorsement to obtain. In practice, an ALA-accredited master's degree in library science is the de facto standard across most Tennessee universities, including the University of Tennessee, Vanderbilt, and the state's community college system. Some academic librarian positions also require a second master's degree or a doctorate in a subject area, particularly for roles tied to specialized collections or faculty-status appointments. Requirements can vary significantly from one institution to the next, so reviewing each job posting carefully is essential.
Quick Comparison
School librarian: Regulated by TDOE; requires a Tennessee teaching license plus Endorsement 473.
Public librarian: No state license required; Tennessee State Library and Archives sets guidelines; MLS/MLIS strongly preferred or required by most systems.
Academic librarian: Credentialed by the hiring institution; ALA-accredited MLS is the standard expectation, though specifics vary by university.
Understanding which authority governs your chosen path is the first step toward building the right education and credentialing plan. The sections that follow break down each pathway in detail, starting with the step-by-step process for school librarians.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a School Librarian in Tennessee
Becoming a school librarian in Tennessee follows a structured pathway that revolves around one specific credential: endorsement 473, also called the Library Information Specialist endorsement.1 This is the designation that appears on your Tennessee educator license and the one school districts look for when hiring. Whether you already hold a teaching license or you are changing careers entirely, the steps below outline how to reach that goal.
The Standard Pathway for Licensed Teachers
If you already hold a valid Tennessee teaching license, adding endorsement 473 is relatively straightforward. Here is the sequence:
Earn a bachelor's degree. You will need at least a bachelor's from a regionally accredited institution, which you likely completed as part of your initial licensure.
Hold or obtain a Tennessee teaching license. Your existing Practitioner or Professional License serves as the foundation for adding the library endorsement.
Complete a TDOE-approved library science program. Enroll in a Tennessee Department of Education-approved program that covers library media, information literacy, collection development, and related competencies. Several Tennessee universities offer these programs at the graduate level.
Pass the Praxis School Librarian exam (test code 5312). This computer-delivered assessment includes 120 questions and lasts two hours.2 The minimum passing score in Tennessee is 154, and the test fee is $130.3 You can take it at a testing center or at home. When registering, use score recipient code 8190 to send your results to the Tennessee Department of Education.3 Note that Praxis scores remain valid for five years, so plan your timeline accordingly.4 An older version of this exam (code 5311) has been retired, so confirm you are registering for the current 5312 test.1
Apply for endorsement 473 through TNCompass. Once your program is complete and your Praxis score is on file, submit your endorsement application through the TNCompass online licensing portal.
The Career-Changer Route: No Teaching License Required
You do not need to already be a classroom teacher to become a school librarian in Tennessee. Candidates entering from other professions can pursue a Practitioner License with endorsement 473 by enrolling in a TDOE-approved library science program that includes a student teaching component or supervised practicum in a school library setting. This clinical experience satisfies the hands-on requirement that traditional teachers fulfilled during their initial preparation.
The Practitioner License is Tennessee's initial-level credential. It is valid for a set period and requires renewal, during which you work toward progression to the next tier. To earn a Professional License, the state's advanced credential, you will need a master's degree and at least three years of qualifying professional experience. Many candidates complete a master's in library science or a closely related field, which simultaneously fulfills the educational requirement for endorsement 473 and positions them for long-term license advancement.
Key Details to Keep in Mind
The distinction between the Practitioner License and the Professional License matters for salary placement and career stability. Districts often tie pay scales to license level, so advancing from Practitioner to Professional status can have a direct financial impact. Planning your graduate coursework to satisfy both the endorsement requirements and the master's degree requirement for the Professional License is the most efficient approach.
Neighboring states handle school librarian credentialing differently, so if you are considering a move or comparing options, reviewing how to become a school librarian in Kentucky can provide useful context. Finally, remember that endorsement 473 is specific to the school library role. Public and academic librarian positions in Tennessee follow a different credentialing path and typically do not require this endorsement or a teaching license. If you are weighing both options, understanding that distinction early can save you time and tuition dollars.
The Path to a Tennessee School Library Endorsement
Earning a school library endorsement in Tennessee follows a defined sequence, whether you hold a teaching license or are entering from another career. The path below outlines each milestone, including the alternative Practitioner License route available to career changers who do not yet hold a Tennessee teaching license.
How to Become a Public or Academic Librarian in Tennessee
Unlike the school librarian track, Tennessee does not require a state-issued license to work as a public or academic librarian. Hiring decisions rest with individual library systems, universities, and their governing boards. That said, the ALA-accredited Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) remains the standard credential that employers expect for professional librarian positions across both sectors.1
Public Librarians and the MLS Standard
Most Tennessee public library systems treat the MLS as a baseline requirement for professional-level roles such as reference librarian, branch manager, or department head. Tennessee's public libraries operate under Tenn. Code Ann. § 10-2-103, and the Tennessee State Library and Archives sets guidelines that tie director qualifications to the size of the population served.2 Libraries serving 25,000 or more residents are generally expected to employ a director who holds an ALA-accredited master's degree.
Smaller library systems have more flexibility. Local library boards in communities with lower population thresholds may hire directors or librarians who do not hold an MLS, provided they meet alternative credentialing standards. If you are weighing how to become a librarian in general, understanding these state-level nuances is essential.
The Public Library Certification Program
For support staff and non-MLS directors at smaller libraries, the Tennessee Library Association sponsors a Public Library Certification Program administered through Jackson State Community College.3 The program offers three tiers of certification (Levels I, II, and III) and is designed for individuals who want to build professional competency without completing a full master's degree. Public library directors are expected to complete at least four programs per year, while other library staff are expected to complete at least one program per year.1
This certification path can be a practical entry point if you are working in a rural or small-community library, but it does not substitute for the MLS at larger systems or in competitive hiring pools.
Academic Librarians in Tennessee
Academic librarian positions at Tennessee's colleges and universities almost universally require an ALA-accredited master's degree. Expectations rise further for tenure-track faculty librarian roles, which may call for:
Second master's degree: A subject-specific graduate degree in addition to the MLS or MLIS.
Doctoral degree: Some research-intensive institutions prefer or require a PhD for faculty-rank librarian appointments.
Scholarly activity: Tenure-track roles typically expect ongoing research, publication, and service contributions comparable to other faculty.
Even non-tenure-track academic librarian positions, such as instruction librarians or digital services librarians, generally list the ALA-accredited master's as a minimum qualification.
Choosing Between Public and Academic Tracks
Both paths begin with the same foundational credential, so your MLS or MLIS coursework will overlap significantly regardless of which sector you target. The key differences come down to workplace culture, advancement expectations, and whether you pursue additional graduate education. Public library work tends to emphasize community engagement and broad service delivery, while academic librarianship leans toward research support, information literacy instruction, and subject specialization. Neighboring states follow similar patterns; for example, public librarian requirements Mississippi also center on the ALA-accredited master's degree.
If you are exploring ALA-accredited programs available to Tennessee residents, mastersinlibraryscience.org compares in-state and online options side by side so you can evaluate cost, format, and program focus before applying.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Do you already hold a valid Tennessee teaching license?
If you do, you can add the Library Information Specialist Endorsement (473) through a shorter graduate program. If you are starting from scratch, you will need to complete a teacher preparation pathway first, which adds time and coursework.
Are you more excited about working with K-12 students or serving adults in a public or academic library?
School librarians in Tennessee must meet state licensure and endorsement requirements that differ sharply from public or academic roles. Knowing your preferred setting early helps you choose the right degree program and avoid unnecessary steps.
Is getting to work quickly your top priority, or do you want maximum long-term career flexibility?
A focused endorsement path can get you into a school library role faster. Earning a full ALA-accredited Master of Library Science takes longer but qualifies you for positions across school, public, academic, and special library settings nationwide.
Are you comfortable completing a fully online program, or do you prefer in-person classes?
Several Tennessee programs offer online or hybrid formats that suit working professionals, while others require on-campus attendance. Your schedule, location, and learning style should shape which program you target.
How much are you prepared to invest in tuition and exam fees?
Costs vary significantly between Tennessee institutions and between endorsement-only tracks and full master's degrees. Factoring in Praxis exam fees, application costs, and potential lost income helps you set realistic expectations before you apply.
Tennessee has four universities that offer graduate-level library science coursework, but they differ significantly in accreditation, degree type, delivery format, and career focus. Understanding these differences is essential before you invest time and tuition, especially if you need a program that satisfies endorsement 473 requirements for school librarianship.
University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK): The ALA-Accredited Standard
UTK's School of Information Sciences offers the Master of Science in Information Sciences (MSIS), which is the only ALA-accredited library science program in Tennessee.1 Key details include:
Accreditation: Fully accredited by the American Library Association.2
Degree: Master of Science in Information Sciences (MSIS).1
Modality: Available fully online, on campus, or in a hybrid format.3
Endorsement 473: Yes, the program includes a school librarianship concentration that qualifies graduates for the Library Information Specialist endorsement.4
Tuition: In-state graduate tuition at UTK is approximately $660 per credit hour, though online students may pay a different rate. Check the university's current tuition schedule for exact figures.
Time to completion: Most students finish in two years of full-time study, though part-time online students may take three years.
If you are pursuing a career in public or academic libraries, the ALA-accredited MSIS from UTK is the credential most employers expect. It is also the strongest option for career changers who want to qualify for endorsement 473 through a single degree program. For a broader look at online MLIS Tennessee options, compare program details side by side before applying.
East Tennessee State University (ETSU)
ETSU does not offer an ALA-accredited library science degree. Instead, it provides a graduate-level concentration or coursework in library media as part of its education programs. This pathway is primarily designed for licensed teachers who want to add the school librarian endorsement. Credit requirements and tuition vary by program track, so prospective students should consult ETSU's College of Education for the latest catalog details. ETSU's coursework is available in hybrid and online formats, making it accessible for working educators across the state.
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)
MTSU offers library science coursework at the graduate level, typically embedded within education or information technology programs rather than as a standalone ALA-accredited degree. Like ETSU, MTSU's library-related offerings tend to serve current teachers seeking the school library endorsement rather than students aiming for public or academic library careers. The university provides online and on-campus options. Prospective students should confirm directly with MTSU whether their chosen track satisfies endorsement 473 requirements and how many credit hours are involved.
Tennessee Technological University (TN Tech)
Tennessee Tech offers coursework relevant to school librarianship through its College of Education, but it does not hold ALA accreditation for a library science degree. Its programs are generally geared toward educators adding an endorsement rather than students entering the library profession from scratch. Course availability, credit hours, and tuition should be verified through TN Tech's current graduate catalog.
Which Program Fits Your Goals?
The right choice depends on where you are starting and where you want to end up.
If you want to work in a public library, academic library, or special library, UTK's ALA-accredited MSIS is the clear path. Most employers outside the K-12 setting require or strongly prefer an ALA-accredited master's degree.
If you are already a licensed Tennessee teacher looking to add endorsement 473, ETSU, MTSU, or TN Tech may offer a shorter, more focused route. These programs let you complete endorsement-eligible coursework without necessarily earning a full second master's degree.
If you are a career changer without a teaching license who wants to become a school librarian, UTK's school librarianship concentration within the MSIS is your most direct option, because it pairs the ALA-accredited credential with endorsement eligibility.
Regardless of the program you choose, confirm that your planned coursework aligns with Tennessee Department of Education requirements before you enroll. If you are also exploring online library science masters programs outside the state, an ALA-accredited degree earned online will carry the same weight with Tennessee employers. Accreditation status and program structures can change, so always verify details on each university's program page and through the ALA accredited programs directory.
Licensing, Praxis Exams, and Endorsement 473 Requirements
Earning the right coursework is only part of the equation. To work as a school librarian in Tennessee, you must also pass a standardized exam, apply through the state's online licensing portal, and understand how your license progresses over time.
Praxis 5312: The Required Exam
Tennessee requires all Library Information Specialist candidates to pass the Praxis Library Media Specialist exam (test code 5312). This exam replaced the older 0311 version and is the only accepted test for endorsement 473 as of 2026. The current minimum passing score set by the Tennessee Department of Education is 156. You can register for the exam through the ETS website, where you will also find study guides and practice materials. Test appointments are available year-round at Prometric testing centers across the state and via at-home proctored options. Scores are typically available within a few weeks and are sent directly to the Tennessee Department of Education if you designate it as a score recipient during registration.
Applying Through TNCompass
All Tennessee educator licensing, including the addition of endorsement 473, is handled through the TNCompass online portal. If you already hold a valid Tennessee teaching license, you can apply to add the Library Information Specialist endorsement by uploading the following:
Official transcripts: Must show completion of an approved library science program or equivalent coursework.
Praxis score report: Evidence of a passing score (156 or higher) on the 5312 exam.
Application fee: The current processing fee is $60, paid online at the time of submission.
Program verification form: Some applicants may need an institutional recommendation from the program where they completed their library science coursework.
Processing times vary, but most applicants should expect a turnaround of four to eight weeks. You can track your application status directly within TNCompass.
Practitioner vs. Professional License
Tennessee uses a tiered licensing structure. The Practitioner license is the entry-level credential, valid for three years and renewable once. It is issued to educators who have completed an approved program and passed the required Praxis exam but who may not yet hold a master's degree or have extensive classroom experience. The Professional license represents the next tier and requires both a completed master's degree and at least three years of qualifying professional experience. Moving from Practitioner to Professional is not automatic. You must submit a new application through TNCompass with documentation of your degree and experience once you meet both thresholds. Neighboring states handle tiered licensing differently; for example, kentucky librarian certification renewal follows its own progression timeline.
Out-of-State Reciprocity
If you are a licensed school librarian in another state, Tennessee does offer a reciprocity pathway. You can apply for a Tennessee license through TNCompass by submitting proof of your current out-of-state license, official transcripts, and a passing Praxis 5312 score. Tennessee evaluates credentials on a case-by-case basis, so the specific license tier you receive (Practitioner or Professional) will depend on your education level and years of experience. Having your documents organized before you begin the application can help avoid delays in processing.
Tennessee Librarian Salary and Job Outlook
Understanding what librarians earn in Tennessee can help you set realistic expectations as you plan your education and career path. Salaries vary by role type, geographic area, and experience level, but the state offers competitive compensation relative to its cost of living.
Statewide Salary Overview
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the statewide median annual wage for librarians and media collections specialists in Tennessee falls in the range of $56,000 to $58,000 as of 2024.1 That figure sits below the national median of $64,3702, though Tennessee's lower cost of living narrows the gap in practical terms. At the entry level (tenth percentile), Tennessee librarians earn approximately $38,000 to $39,000, while the most experienced professionals at the ninetieth percentile earn between $88,000 and $90,000.1 For a broader look at how library science salary figures compare across settings and degree levels, compensation in Tennessee generally tracks with other mid-South states.
Salary by Metro Area
Pay varies meaningfully across the state's major metropolitan regions. Based on the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics wage estimates3:
Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin: Mean annual wage of $62,360, the highest among Tennessee metros and closest to the national median.
Memphis (TN-MS-AR): Mean annual wage of $60,310, reflecting demand in the state's second-largest metro.
Chattanooga (TN-GA): Mean annual wage of $59,900, competitive for a mid-sized metro area.
Knoxville: Mean annual wage of $55,860, slightly below the statewide median but consistent with the region's cost of living.
If relocating within the state is an option, targeting a position in the Nashville or Memphis area can make a noticeable difference in take-home pay.
Salary Context by Role Type
Not all librarian positions follow the same compensation structure. School librarians in Tennessee are typically paid on the same salary schedule as classroom teachers, with pay determined by education level and years of service. Holding a master's degree generally places you on a higher salary lane from day one. Public librarians see compensation that varies by system size; a position with the Nashville Public Library, for example, may pay more than a role in a smaller rural system. Academic librarians employed by state universities often receive salaries tied to faculty or professional staff pay scales, and compensation can differ substantially between community colleges and research institutions like the University of Tennessee.
Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects national employment growth for librarians at 1% to 2% over the 2024 to 2034 period.4 That pace is slower than average for all occupations, but it does not tell the full story. Retirements among the current workforce are expected to create steady openings, and Tennessee's growing population, particularly in the Nashville corridor, supports ongoing demand for library services. School districts across the state continue to employ library information specialists, and public library systems regularly post openings as communities expand. Prospective librarians who hold an ALA-accredited master's degree and relevant endorsements remain well positioned for available roles, even in a modest-growth environment.
Tennessee school librarians are paid on the same state teacher salary schedule as classroom teachers, so your compensation is directly tied to your education level and years of experience. Earning a master's degree moves you into a higher pay lane right away, meaning the investment in an advanced degree translates to a measurable salary increase from your very first year in the role.
Continuing Education and License Renewal in Tennessee
Earning your credentials is only the first milestone. Staying current with continuing education (CE) requirements ensures you can keep practicing, whether you work in a school library, a public system, or a university setting.
School Librarian License Renewal
Tennessee teaching licenses, including those with the Library Information Specialist endorsement (473), operate on a renewable cycle. Educators holding a Professional License must complete 90 professional development points (PDPs) within each five-year renewal cycle. Points can be earned through workshops, graduate coursework, conference attendance, and other approved activities tracked through the Tennessee Department of Education's licensing portal.
One important detail: adding endorsement 473 to an existing teaching license does not restart your renewal clock. The new endorsement simply inherits the expiration date already attached to your current license. If your license renews in 2028, the endorsement expires in 2028 as well, so plan your PDP accumulation accordingly. Neighboring states handle renewal differently; for example, Kentucky librarian certification renewal follows its own timeline and point structure.
Public and Academic Librarian CE Expectations
Public and academic librarians in Tennessee do not hold a state-issued professional license the way school librarians do. Instead, continuing education expectations are set by the individual library system and by standards maintained through the Tennessee State Library and Archives (TSLA). Many public library systems tie CE participation to performance evaluations or eligibility for salary advancement. The TSLA periodically offers free or low-cost training opportunities, webinars, and workshops designed for public library staff across the state.
Because requirements vary from one employer to the next, it is worth clarifying your system's CE policy during the hiring process.
Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Loan Forgiveness
Several financial resources can offset the cost of earning or maintaining your library science credentials.
Tennessee Library Association (TLA) Scholarships: TLA awards scholarships annually to Tennessee residents pursuing graduate study in library science. Award amounts and deadlines vary by year, so check the TLA website early in the application cycle.
Federal TEACH Grant: School librarians who commit to serving in high-need schools may qualify for the TEACH Grant, which provides up to $4,000 per year in exchange for a service obligation. Failing to complete the service requirement converts the grant into an unsubsidized loan, so review the terms carefully.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Librarians employed full time by qualifying public or nonprofit institutions, including public libraries, public universities, and public school districts, may be eligible for PSLF after 120 qualifying monthly payments under an income-driven repayment plan.
Combining these programs strategically can significantly reduce both the upfront cost of your degree and the long-term burden of student debt.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Librarian in Tennessee
Prospective librarians in Tennessee often have questions about degree requirements, certification pathways, and career options. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about entering the profession in 2026.
What degree do you need to be a librarian in Tennessee?
The degree you need depends on the type of library. Public and academic libraries typically require a master's degree in library science (MLIS or MLS), preferably from an ALA-accredited program. School librarians in Tennessee need at least a master's degree along with the Library Information Specialist endorsement (endorsement 473) issued by the Tennessee Department of Education. Some library support roles may accept a bachelor's degree, but professional librarian positions generally require graduate education.
How do you become a school librarian in Tennessee without a teaching license?
Tennessee offers a pathway for candidates who do not hold a teaching license. You can enroll in an approved graduate program that includes both library science coursework and education foundations. Programs such as the one at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) prepare candidates for initial licensure and the Library Information Specialist endorsement 473 simultaneously. You will also need to pass the required Praxis exam and complete a practicum or student teaching experience as part of the program.
Do you need an ALA-accredited degree to work in a Tennessee public library?
Tennessee does not have a statewide mandate requiring ALA accreditation for public library positions. However, many public library systems, especially larger ones such as Nashville Public Library and Memphis Public Libraries, strongly prefer or require an ALA-accredited master's degree for professional librarian roles. Earning an ALA-accredited degree also strengthens your candidacy if you ever want to work in other states that do enforce the requirement.
What Praxis exam is required for the school librarian endorsement in Tennessee?
Tennessee requires candidates for the Library Information Specialist endorsement 473 to pass the Praxis Library Media Specialist exam (test code 5311). This assessment covers topics such as collection development, information literacy instruction, program administration, and technology integration. The Tennessee Department of Education sets the minimum passing score, so check the department's current score requirements before registering for the test.
What is the Library Information Specialist endorsement 473 in Tennessee?
Endorsement 473 is the credential issued by the Tennessee Department of Education that authorizes an educator to serve as a school librarian (library information specialist) in Tennessee public schools. To earn it, candidates must hold a valid Tennessee educator license, complete an approved graduate program in library science or school librarianship, and pass the Praxis 5311 exam. The endorsement is added to an existing teaching license rather than issued as a standalone credential.
Can I transfer an out-of-state school librarian certification to Tennessee?
Yes, Tennessee participates in interstate reciprocity agreements for educator licensing. If you hold a valid, comparable school librarian credential from another state, you can apply for a Tennessee educator license with the Library Information Specialist endorsement 473 through the Tennessee Department of Education. You may need to provide official transcripts, proof of passing Praxis scores, and verification from your previous state. Additional coursework could be required if your preparation does not align with Tennessee standards.
Are there scholarships or loan forgiveness programs for Tennessee librarians?
Several options may help offset costs. The American Library Association offers scholarships such as the Spectrum Scholarship for students from underrepresented groups. Tennessee's Graduate Assistantship programs at UTK and ETSU can reduce tuition for library science students. School librarians who work in Title I schools may qualify for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) after 120 qualifying payments. The Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation also administers state grants that graduate students should explore.
