High school counselors: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more

High school counselors advise students in making academic and career plans. Many help students overcome personal issues that interfere with their academic development. They help students choose classes and plan for their lives after graduation. Counselors provide information about choosing and applying for colleges, training programs, financial aid, and internships and apprenticeships. They may present career workshops to help students search and apply for jobs, write rsums, and improve their interviewing skills.

Education Required
Nearly all states and the District of Columbia require school counselors to have a masters degree in school counseling or a related field. Degree programs teach counselors the essential skills of the job, such as how to foster academic development; conduct group and individual counseling; work with parents, school staff, and community organizations; and use data to develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive school counseling programs for all students. These programs often require counselors to complete an internship.
Job Outlook
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 11% (Faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.)
Licenses/Certifications
Public school counselors must have a state-issued credential to practice. This credential can be called a certification, a license, or an endorsement, depending on the state. Licensure or certification typically requires a masters degree in school counseling, an internship or practicum completed under the supervision of a licensed professional school counselor, and successful completion of a test.
Median pay: How much do School and Career Counselors make?
$54,560 Annual Salary
$26.23 per hour

Careers for School and Career Counselors

  • Career counselors
  • Career technical counselors
  • College counselors
  • Education counselors
  • Educational counselors
  • Elementary school counselors
  • Employment counselors
  • Guidance counselors
  • International school counselors
  • International student counselors
  • Middle school counselors
  • School adjustment counselors
  • School counselors
  • School guidance counselors
  • Student advisors
  • Student development advisors
  • Student services counselors
  • Student success counselors
  • Study abroad advisors
  • Vocational advisers
  • Vocational counselors

Similar Careers