Education & Care

How to become a School Counselor

From teacher: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

2–3 years

Typical pay

$58k–$78k

Starting from

Teacher

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from teacher and includes any licence or programme legally required — not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   2–3 years

   Teach or work in a school first

   Many states require or strongly prefer classroom experience.

2. 2

   2–3 years

   Complete a master's in school counselling

   A CACREP-accredited program is the standard requirement.

3. 3

   1–2 semesters

   Complete your practicum and internship

   Supervised hours in a real school, usually across two placements.

4. 4

   Get state certified

   Certification is separate from a teaching licence in most states.

   ◆ State school counsellor certification

5. ✓

   Destination

   School Counselor

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