Why Pursue a School Counseling Degree Online?

Individuals who work in academic institutions are integral for helping create supportive environments in which students can learn. Administrators, teachers and principals work toward ensuring learners have access to the best resources to supplement their educations, but there are other professions in these schools that are geared more toward providing students with the peace of mind they need to succeed.

School counselors,other wise known as a guidance counselor,help foster students' self-esteem and overall well-being. Individuals hoping to jump start their careers in this field should consider online school counseling programs, as this certification may be a great way to prepare for the opportunities, challenges and professionals they may encounter on a daily basis.

Other individuals may want to pursue an more in depth study and go for a Masters in School Counseling or other School Counseling Graduate Programs.

A glimpse into the realm of school counseling

The majority of elementary, middle and high schools enlist the assistance of guidance counselors, many times requiring that students meet with an assigned counselor at least once per academic year. These workers are especially helpful for older students, such as those in high school, as they can provide invaluable assistance during the college-selection process. Generally, counselors help learners further hone their social and developmental skills, allowing them to succeed in their academic and future careers.

While pursuing your online degree in school counseling, you may be exposed to a variety of courses that may help prepare you for a career in this field. Students frequently take classes in psychology, child development and counseling. Additionally, upon receiving their certification, people may be eligible to work in a variety of student-serving organizations, including schools, nonprofits or community centers.

There are several potential career paths to pursue for those holding an online degree in school counseling. If you're interested in providing psychological support to students, pursue a career as a school counselor or consultant at a private organization may be a great decision. Alternatively, if you're compelled at the thought of helping learners discover their true calling in life, pursuing a career counselor may be a better selection.

What could you earn with a School Counselor Salary

Since there are a variety of career paths in school counseling from which you can choose to pursue, the accompanying salaries vary based on education, profession and experience, among other factors. Consider the following occupations, with data compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2012.

  • School and career counselors: 2012 Median annual salary of $53,610 (12 percent projected growth through 2022)[i]
  • Psychologists: 2012 Median annual salary of $69,280 (12 percent projected growth through 2022)[ii]
  • Social and human service assistants: 2012 Median annual salary of $28,850 (22 percent projected growth through 2022)[iii]

Additional skills required for a career in school counseling

To work in the field of school counseling, it's essential that you have a strong interest both in the field of psychology and in the realm of child development. Since these workers must provide sound advice to students on a daily basis, they must be great listeners and problem solvers. Additionally, since the realm of psychological thought is constantly shifting, you should have a deep desire to learn more about the newest research and theories, especially how they pertain to the field of child psychology.


[i] bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/school-and-career-counselors.htm | [ii] bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm | [iii] bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-and-human-service-assistants.htm