How To Become a School Counselor Online | Graduate Programs Online

Don't let your job or busy schedule discourage you from becoming a school counselor. Chase your career goals by enrolling in an affordable online counseling degree program from a trusted institution, such as a CACREP-accredited school.

The coursework from these degree programs covers several educational, psychological, and social topics. Aspiring school counselors should expect to learn about topics such as:

• child advocacy
• group counseling
• multicultural competencies
• social justice

Steps To Become a School Counselor Online

Students must follow multiple steps to become a school counselor. These include earning a bachelor's degree, state teaching certification, a master's degree, and more. You must be a dedicated and diligent learner to complete all the requirements for becoming an educational counselor.

Find an Online Degree Program Today

Many accredited institutions offer online programs that teach students about implementing counseling practices in school settings. Evaluate your career goals to determine what type of bachelor's degree you want to pursue.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of school and career counselors is projected to grow 4% from 2023 to 2033. Receiving a high-quality counselor education is significant, so conduct your research on several educational programs.

Here are the steps to becoming a school counselor online.

1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree

Those interested in a school counseling career have many undergraduate degrees to choose from. Look for a degree that aligns with your specific interests and strengths. Some of the best bachelor's degrees for aspiring school counselors include:

• education
• psychology
• sociology
• social work

Students should fill out the FAFSA online form to determine financial aid eligibility. Financial aid options may include scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Find a school that has no application fee and is flexible for part-time and full-time learners.

2. Research State Licensure Requirements

According to the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), state requirements vary by state. Check your state's Department of Education website to determine what their specific requirements are. However, some general requirements that most states agree on are:

• completion of practicum and internship in a K-12 school
• pass a state or national comprehensive test (such as Praxis)
• documented school counseling education
• coursework from an accredited college or university

In addition to these requirements, aspiring school counselors must earn a master's degree. This advanced degree provides students with the skills to properly assist students, parents, and other faculty members.

3. Enroll in an Online Master's Program in School Counseling

Most, if not all states, require a master's degree in school counseling or a related field to become a school counselor. Fortunately, there are many flexible online graduate programs from reputable institutions nationwide.

Master's degree programs for school counselors include a Master of Education (MEd), a Master of Science (MS), or a Master of Arts (MA) in school counseling. Common admission requirements for graduate schools include:

• high GPA
• letters of recommendation
• standardized test scores, such as the GRE
• copies of official transcripts

4. Complete Internship or Practicum Requirements

Gaining field experience is just as important as acquiring a degree. Many graduate degree programs for school counselors include internships or practicums to help students gain hands-on fieldwork experience. You may complete your practicum at a local school or non-profit organization.

The purpose of internships and practicums is to promote career readiness. You must complete a certain amount of practicum hours before graduating and gaining licensure. Internship experiences complement the knowledge you gain through coursework in online school counseling programs.

5. Pass the Required State Licensing Exams

Students must pass the required state licensing exams before acquiring a school counseling certification. Each state mandates different licensing exams. Some of the most common across many states include:

• Praxis School Counselor Exam
• National Counselor Examination (NCE)
• National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE)
• Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination (CRC)

Check with your state's Department of Education to determine which tests you must take. Set time aside to study for these exams, and don't hesitate to ask professors or other staff for assistance.

6. Apply for State Licensure

Before you apply, ensure you have completed your education and a background check. The process of applying for state licensure differs from state to state. Typically, you'll navigate to your state's Department of Education or licensing board website, make an account, and start your application.

Gather all the documentation you will need to complete your application. After you submit your application, follow up with the licensing board for its status. You must maintain your licensure by completing education requirements throughout your time as a school counselor.

7. Seek School Counselor Jobs

Update your resume and create a tailored cover letter highlighting your education, skills, and educational experience for each job posting. Build a network of education staff (e.g., teachers and current school counselors) to create connections. You can do this by attending job fairs, alumni events, and through job searching platforms such as LinkedIn.

The American School Counselor Association offers professional development resources, such as job listings, to help recent graduates find work. Look for school counselor opportunities at local schools through school district websites, and don't be afraid to request information about job postings.

FAQs About Online School Counseling Programs

Here are answers to frequently asked questions about online school counseling programs.

What Degree Do Most School Counselors Have?

Most school counselors have an undergraduate degree in education or psychology and a graduate degree in school counseling. A bachelor's degree in education provides aspiring school counselors with a strong foundation in educational theory and pedagogy.

A bachelor's in psychology is a popular option because students learn about human development, behavior, and emotional well-being � which is essential for effectively supporting students' mental health and social needs. A master's degree in school counseling is required to become a school counselor, so you must obtain one to pursue this career path.

Where Do School Counselors Make the Most Money?

School counselors working in states with a higher cost of living, such as California, New York, and Massachusetts, typically have higher average salaries. In addition, school counselors employed in private schools or specialized institutions may also earn more than those in public schools.

Having an advanced degree or specialized certification can boost your earning potential. Seasoned school counselors tend to earn more because of their work experience. Salaries depend mainly on geographic location, type of institution, educational background, and experience.

Why Should I Earn a Master's Degree in School Counseling?

You should earn a master's degree in school counseling because it is required to hold a position as a school counselor. Beyond that, a master's in school counseling provides advanced knowledge and skills to effectively support students' academic, social, and emotional development.

Graduate students should expect to take in-depth training courses and assessments, and learn intervention strategies. A graduate degree in school counseling can help you advance your career and increase your revenue potential.

Earn Your School Counseling Degree Online Today

Earning a school counseling degree is the first step towards landing your dream job in education. Ensure you follow all the steps above in addition to obtaining a degree. Contact one of the featured institutions on Learn.org for more information.