Become a School Counselor

School counseling is 100-plus years old. Starting as vocation guidance in the early 1900s, school counseling has shifted from a job position to a service and finally to an organized K–12 schoolwide program that improves outcomes for each and every student. Today, school counselors are highly educated, professionally certified individuals who help students succeed in school and plan their career.

School counselor qualifications:

• Hold, at minimum, a master's degree in school counseling
• Meet state certification/licensure standards
• Fulfill continuing education requirements
• Uphold ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors and ASCA Professional Standards & Competencies

School Counseling Degree Programs

Looking to enter the school counseling field? There are hundreds of colleges and universities across the country with certificates, master's degrees, Ph.D., Ed.D. or PsyD programs in school counseling, counselor education or counseling psychology. Check out our state-by-state map to find school counseling graduate degree programs in your state, or view online options. If you are aware of a program not listed here, contact  Kathleen Rakestraw.

State Mandates, Certification and Licensure

School counselors are licensed and credentialed by the state/territory where they are employed. Typically, licensure requires documented school counseling education and coursework from an accredited college/university, completion of practicum and internship in a K–12 school, as well as passage of a state or national comprehensive test (e.g., Praxis). State requirements vary by state so it’s important to consider criteria when you are seeking new employment or moving to a position in a different state. Visit the state department of education for your state to find up-to-date requirements.