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

Elementary school counselors focus on helping students develop certain skills, such as those used in decisionmaking and studying, that they need in order to be successful in their social and academic lives. School counselors meet with parents or guardians to discuss their childs strengths and weaknesses, and any special needs and behavioral issues that the child might have. School counselors also work with teachers and administrators to ensure that the curriculum addresses both the developmental and academic needs of students.

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
  • Employment counselors
  • Guidance counselors
  • High school 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

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