Top School Counseling Graduate Programs
School counselors help K-12 and college students meet personal, professional, and academic goals. A master's in school counseling helps learners gain the skills and experience necessary for this field.
All master's in school counseling programs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree. Some programs require a background in psychology or education. Others accept all undergraduate majors. Counseling programs usually focus on broad psychology and counseling concepts. Students pursuing a school counseling degree also take specialized classes in school counseling practice.
Our guide lists the best school counseling programs. Read on for information on degree costs, common classes, and how to become a school counselor.
Questions About School Counseling
What does a school counselor do?
School counselors help students with academic and social problems. They also work with other educational professionals to improve students' school experience.
What are the requirements to be a school counselor?
All school counselors need at least a bachelor's degree. Some states require a master's degree. Counselors also need either national or state school counselor licensure.
Are school counselors in high demand?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects school counselor jobs to grow 11% from 2020-2030, which is higher than the national average.
Why Get a Degree in School Counseling?
A school counseling master's degree builds advanced skills in student counseling practices. Degree-seekers gain comprehensive knowledge of counseling theories and techniques. Most school counseling degrees also build the hands-on experience necessary to obtain counselor certification.
The BLS reports that school and career counselors earn an annual median salary of $58,120. The top 10% of school counselors earn more than $97,910 annually.
Many master's in school counseling programs run either fully or partially online. These programs help working students continue their careers while earning their degree.
How Much Does a School Counseling Degree Cost?
A master's degree costs an average of $66,340, according to EducationData.org. However, cost varies by school type, learners' residency status, and program length. Full-time enrollees can complete a master's in about two years. Part-time students may take longer. Students attending public, in-state schools typically pay the most affordable tuition.
Many colleges offer school counseling master's degrees online. An online format helps learners save money on relocating or commuting to school.
How Much Do School Counselors Make?
Graduates with a master's in school counseling often work as K-12 school counselors. They may also work as counselors at colleges and community colleges.
Counselors who work at K-12 schools earn a median salary of $64,960 annually, according to the BLS. Counselors at colleges and universities earn $51,660.
Most school counseling jobs only require a master's degree. However, earning a Ph.D. or Ed.D. can help counselors pursue more advanced careers. Doctoral graduates may find jobs in academia, educational psychology, or educational leadership.
Courses in School Counseling
Master's in school counseling programs include general counseling topics along with specialized classes in school counseling. Students build broad knowledge in psychology, counseling, and research. Specialized classes may cover topics such as career counseling and the psychology of learning.
Most programs also require candidates to complete an internship and practicum. These in-person hours build hands-on experience and may meet state requirements for counseling licensure.
See below for three common classes in master's in school counseling programs. Please note that not all schools offer the exact classes below. Students should check with their prospective schools to learn specific offerings.
Issues in School Counseling
This class addresses the role of the counselor in school settings. Students explore the general framework for school counseling practice, including common issues and intervention strategies. This class may also focus on techniques for counseling program development. Learners gain the skills to collaborate with other educators in a K-12 school setting.Legal and Ethical Issues in Counseling
School counselors address sensitive problems and may encounter ethical issues. This class focuses on major ethical and legal regulations for counselors. Topics may cover confidentiality, student records, and communicating with families. Degree-seekers may also receive an overview of ethical standards from the American School Counselor Association (ASCA).Multicultural Counseling
School counselors serve a diverse body of students and families. This class explores the theories and practices of counseling diverse clients. Enrollees may learn about cultural assumptions, counselor credibility, and cultural values. Many classes now focus on a social justice framework for counseling.
How to Become a School Counselor
Most states require school counselors to hold a master's degree in a relevant field, such as counseling, school counseling, or psychology. Public school counselors also need state licensure or certification.
These professionals spend their workdays counseling students on social and academic problems. They may also work with teachers and administrators to create new school practices that better serve students.
School counselor duties vary by school level. At elementary schools, counselors may focus more on general social development. At high schools, they often focus more on preparing students for college or work.
Licensure for School Counselors
School counselors need licensure or certification to work at public schools. Specific licensure requirements vary by state. However, counselors generally need a master's degree in a relevant field. The degree must include approved coursework in counseling and education topics.
Counselors must also complete practicum and internship hours at an approved K-12 school. These required hours build hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed school counselors. Practicum requirements vary by state. Most states require candidates to complete a set number of hours.
After gaining education and experience, candidates must also complete a licensure exam. Some states administer their own tests, while others accept national exams such as the Professional School Counselor. The ASCA lists each state's licensure requirements.
