School Counselor
What does a School Counselor do?
- School Counselors assist with the educational, vocational, emotional,
and social development of students.
- They work with students individually, in the classroom, and in small
groups.
- They must work closely with parents, teachers, administrators, and other
school personnel to develop efficient programs to meet student needs.
- They may administer and interpret tests, assist teachers in developing
personal growth units, and maintain systematic records for the students they
counsel.
- Elementary School Counselors usually deal closely only with
children who have been identified by parents or teachers as having academic,
emotional, or social problems.
- High School Counselors may be expected to know all of their
students and assist them in planning their academic programs.
- College Counselors are expected to be available to students who
request assistance and may be required to approve each student's program.
- Tasks include: This information lists tasks that may or may not be a
regular part of the job.
- Many School Counselors teach psychology or personal development classes.
Salary and Employment Outlook:
EDD Labor
Market Information
ONet Online
Typical Employers:
School counselors work in secondary and elementary schools, both public and
private, in community colleges and four- year colleges and universities. State
government employees also work in correctional and other facilities. Counselors
are also employed by the federal government. Also, they may be employed by
companies operating in other countries and by the U.S. government for employees,
families of employees and the military located in other countries. Some work in
state and federal special schools such as schools for the deaf, schools for the
blind, diagnostic schools, and resident schools and for the corrections
department.
Preparation:
A teaching credential is highly desirable and many positions require
part-time teaching. Intern positions (usually unpaid) may be used to gain
experience while attending graduate school. Elementary and Secondary School
Counselors must have a bachelor's degree plus a Pupil Personnel Services
credential which usually takes one or two years of graduate coursework and can
be combined with a master's degree. A statewide system of minimum qualifications
has been established by the Board of Governors for Community College Counselors.
Educational Program(s):
Counseling
Related Programs: Psychology, Religion, Social Science, Sociology, Teacher
Education -Secondary, Theology