School counselors play an essential role in helping students succeed academically, navigate challenges, and plan for their futures. School counselors support students’ social-emotional development, guide college and career planning, and help create positive learning environments for all students.
If you’re interested in working closely with young people and making a lasting impact in education, becoming a school counselor can be a rewarding career path.
“School counselors help students see possibilities for their future,” said Dennis Frank, Ph.D., director of The University of Olivet’s Online Master of Arts School Counseling program. “They support students during critical moments in their development and help them build the confidence and skills they need to move forward.”
This guide explains the steps to becoming a school counselor, including education requirements and professional preparation.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step toward becoming a school counselor is completing a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Your undergraduate major does not necessarily need to be counseling-related. However, many aspiring school counselors pursue degrees in areas such as:
- Psychology
- Education
- Social work
- Human development
- Sociology
These programs can provide helpful foundations in understanding human behavior, learning, and communication.
Step 2: Complete a Master’s Degree in School Counseling
To work as a school counselor, educators must complete a master’s degree in school counseling or a closely related field.
Graduate programs provide the advanced training needed to support students in K–12 settings. Coursework typically includes topics such as:
- Counseling theories and techniques
- Human growth and development
- Testing and assessment procedures
- Crisis intervention
- College and career readiness planning
- Social justice and culturally responsive counseling
Most programs also include supervised practicum and internship experiences in schools, allowing students to gain real-world experience working with children and adolescents.
“Graduate training helps future counselors connect theory with real practice,” Dr. Frank explained. “Students learn how to build relationships with young people, work collaboratively with educators, and develop programs that support student success.”
Step 3: Complete Supervised Field Experience
Hands-on experience is a critical part of preparing for a career in school counseling.
Most master’s programs require students to complete a practicum and internship in K–12 school settings under the supervision of experienced counseling professionals.
During these placements, students typically gain experience in areas such as:
- Individual and group counseling
- Classroom guidance lessons
- Crisis response
- College and career advising
- Student support planning
Field experiences help graduate students understand the realities of working in school systems while developing the confidence and practical skills needed to support students effectively.
Step 4: Meet State School Counselor Certification Requirements
Each state regulates certification for its school counseling professionals. For example, school counselors in Michigan are certified through the Michigan Department of Education.
Certification requirements may include:
- Completing an approved school counseling graduate program
- Meeting supervised field experience requirements
- Applying for certification through your state
Because certification policies can change, students should always review the latest state requirements when planning their career path.
What Do School Counselors Do?
Many people think of school counselors primarily as college advisors, but their responsibilities are much broader.
School counselors support K-12 students’ development in three key areas:
Academic Development
- Helping students plan coursework and meet graduation requirements
- Supporting academic success strategies
- Monitoring student progress
Social and Emotional Development
- Providing counseling and emotional support
- Teaching coping and problem-solving skills
- Helping students navigate challenges such as anxiety, conflict, or stress
College and Career Readiness
- Assisting students with college planning and applications
- Supporting career exploration
- Helping students identify goals for life after graduation
“School counselors are advocates for students,” Dr. Frank said. “They work to ensure every student has the resources and opportunities needed to succeed in school and prepare for the future.”
Career Outlook for School Counselors
Schools across the country are placing increasing emphasis on student well-being, mental health, and postsecondary planning. As a result, trained school counselors are essential members of educational teams.
School counselors work in settings such as:
- Elementary schools
- Middle schools
- High schools
- Public and private school districts
- Charter schools
In these roles, counselors collaborate with teachers, administrators, families, and community partners to help students thrive academically and personally.
Is School Counseling the Right Career for You?
School counseling can be an excellent career choice for individuals who:
- Enjoy working with young people
- Want to support student success and well-being
- Value collaboration with educators and families
- Are interested in leadership and advocacy within schools
“School counseling is a profession where you can truly see the impact of your work,” Dr. Frank said. “Helping a student overcome a challenge or discover their path can shape their future in powerful ways.”
Preparing for a Career in School Counseling
If you’re interested in becoming a school counselor, the next step is finding a graduate program that prepares you for certification while helping you develop the skills needed to support students effectively.
Programs that combine strong academic preparation, supervised school experience, and faculty mentorship can help future counselors build the confidence and expertise needed to succeed in today’s schools.
For those who feel called to guide students, advocate for equity, and help young people discover their potential, school counseling offers a meaningful and impactful career path.
Interested in learning more about becoming a school counselor?
You can explore The University of Olivet’s Online Master of Arts in School Counseling program, request information, or connect with an admissions counselor to discuss whether this Michigan-based program is the right fit for your goals.