
Graduates with a degree in School Counseling can pursue roles such as school counselors, academic advisors, and student support specialists. These professionals help students navigate academic challenges, career planning, and personal development. Opportunities also exist in educational program coordination and mental health support within school settings.
College Admissions Counselor
A College Admissions Counselor plays a crucial role in guiding prospective students through the application process, evaluating academic records, and providing personalized advice to help them meet admission requirements. This job requires strong communication skills and a deep understanding of educational pathways, making it an ideal fit for those with a background in School Counseling. Your expertise in student development and support equips you to assist applicants in making informed decisions about their higher education goals.
Mental Health Peer Support Specialist
A Mental Health Peer Support Specialist provides vital emotional support and guidance to individuals facing mental health challenges, leveraging personal experience to foster empathy and trust. This role involves facilitating peer groups, connecting clients to resources, and promoting mental wellness within school or community settings. School Counseling undergraduates possess the foundational knowledge and interpersonal skills essential for effective peer support and advocacy in mental health environments.
Student Success Coach
A Student Success Coach supports students in achieving academic and personal goals by providing guidance on time management, study strategies, and career planning. They work closely with students to identify challenges and develop individualized action plans that promote motivation and resilience. This role is essential for fostering student engagement and improving retention rates within educational institutions.
Academic Advisor
Academic advisors guide students in course selection, helping them align their classes with graduation requirements and career goals. They provide support in developing educational plans and connect students with campus resources for academic success. This role leverages strong communication and organizational skills to foster student achievement and retention.
Career Services Coordinator
A School Counseling undergraduate can pursue a career as a Career Services Coordinator, where they guide students in exploring career options, developing job search skills, and connecting with potential employers. This role involves organizing career workshops, managing internship programs, and providing one-on-one counseling to support students' professional development. Expertise in student counseling, career assessment, and resource management is essential for success in this position.
Youth Outreach Coordinator
A Youth Outreach Coordinator leverages skills gained from a School Counseling undergraduate degree to design and implement programs that support at-risk youth and foster positive development. They collaborate with schools, community organizations, and families to connect young people with resources and opportunities that enhance their academic, social, and emotional well-being. This role requires strong communication, empathy, and problem-solving abilities to effectively engage diverse youth populations and promote resilience.
SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) Facilitator
School Counseling undergraduates can pursue roles as SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) Facilitators, where they design and implement programs to support students' emotional intelligence, resilience, and interpersonal skills. These professionals collaborate with educators and families to create a nurturing environment that enhances student well-being and academic success. Your expertise in social-emotional development positions you to make a meaningful impact in schools and community organizations.
Diversity & Inclusion Program Assistant
A Diversity & Inclusion Program Assistant supports initiatives that promote equitable opportunities and foster an inclusive school environment. You contribute to creating programs that address the unique needs of diverse student populations, enhancing cultural awareness and sensitivity. This role is ideal for school counseling undergraduates passionate about advocating for social justice and student well-being.
Restorative Practices Coordinator
A Restorative Practices Coordinator in a school setting implements strategies to improve student behavior and relationships by facilitating conflict resolution and promoting accountability. They design and oversee programs that foster a positive school climate, reduce disciplinary issues, and support emotional growth. Expertise in communication, empathy, and conflict mediation is essential for success in this role.
Good to know: jobs for School Counseling undergraduate
Overview of School Counseling Undergraduate Programs
School counseling undergraduate programs prepare students for careers focused on supporting students' academic, emotional, and social development. These programs provide foundational knowledge in psychology, education, and counseling techniques.
- School Counselor - Graduates work directly with K-12 students to address academic challenges, personal issues, and college planning.
- Youth Program Coordinator - This role involves designing and leading after-school and community programs aimed at student growth and engagement.
- Educational Support Specialist - Professionals support teachers and administrators by developing interventions for students with special needs or behavioral concerns.
Essential Skills Gained from a School Counseling Degree
Obtaining a School Counseling undergraduate degree equips students with essential skills such as effective communication, empathy, and problem-solving. These competencies prepare graduates for various roles in educational and mental health settings.
Graduates can pursue careers as school counselors, academic advisors, or student support specialists. The program develops skills in conflict resolution, career guidance, and emotional support, which are critical in helping students navigate academic and personal challenges. Expertise in counseling theories and ethical practices enhances their ability to foster positive student development and well-being.
Traditional Career Paths for Graduates
Graduates with a degree in School Counseling often pursue roles such as school counselors, guidance counselors, and academic advisors. These positions focus on supporting students' emotional, social, and academic development within educational settings.
Traditional career paths include working in K-12 public or private schools, specializing in college readiness, mental health counseling, and crisis intervention. Many graduates also find opportunities in school administration and student services, helping shape school policies and programs.
Alternative Job Roles Outside Traditional School Settings
Job Role | Description | Relevant Skills | Work Environment |
---|---|---|---|
Career Counselor | Assist individuals in identifying career paths and developing job search strategies outside of school systems. | Career assessment, interviewing, communication, job market knowledge | Community centers, private practices, corporate settings |
Mental Health Technician | Support mental health professionals in clinical settings focused on adolescent and adult clients. | Emotional support, crisis intervention, client monitoring | Hospitals, outpatient clinics, residential treatment facilities |
Social Services Coordinator | Manage programs that provide assistance and resources to diverse populations. | Case management, resource coordination, advocacy | Non-profits, government agencies, community organizations |
Rehabilitation Specialist | Help individuals with disabilities develop skills for independent living and employment. | Individualized planning, counseling, vocational training | Rehabilitation centers, vocational agencies, nonprofit organizations |
Human Resources Specialist | Facilitate employee development, conflict resolution, and recruitment processes. | Interpersonal communication, mediation, organizational development | Corporate offices, staffing agencies, government departments |
You as a Life Coach | Guide clients through personal development and goal-setting beyond academic contexts. | Active listening, motivational techniques, personalized planning | Private practice, wellness centers, online platforms |
Required Certifications and Licensure
School Counseling undergraduates can pursue careers as licensed school counselors, requiring state-specific certification and licensure. Most states mandate a master's degree in school counseling, completion of supervised clinical hours, and passing a comprehensive exam such as the National Counselor Exam (NCE). Your eligibility to work in public schools depends on meeting these certification standards and maintaining licensure through ongoing professional development.
Salary Expectations and Job Outlook
Graduates with a School Counseling undergraduate degree can pursue various careers focusing on student support and development. Salary expectations and job outlook vary depending on the specific role and location.
- School Counselor - Median salary in the US is around $60,000 per year with a strong job growth rate of 8% through 2030.
- Youth Mental Health Specialist - Salaries typically range from $45,000 to $70,000 annually with increasing demand in schools and community centers.
- Career Counselor - Expected median wages are about $58,000 per year with a positive job outlook fueled by ongoing needs in educational and vocational guidance.
Your career in school counseling offers promising salary potential and steady employment opportunities in the education sector.
Professional Development and Advancement Opportunities
Graduates with a degree in School Counseling can pursue careers as K-12 school counselors, academic advisors, or career guidance specialists. These roles involve supporting student development, addressing academic challenges, and fostering emotional well-being.
Professional development opportunities include obtaining certifications such as Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or National Certified Counselor (NCC). Advancement paths lead to senior counseling positions, administrative roles, or specialized counseling fields like college admissions or mental health.