Career Opportunities for School Counseling Graduates

Across the country, schools are being called to address more than just academic achievement. Emerging research from organizations like the American Psychological Association highlights a surge in student anxiety and depression, along with ongoing academic disruptions and widening opportunity gaps. In response, districts are expanding support systems and investing in qualified professionals who can help students navigate both academic and emotional challenges.

This shift has propelled the role of the school counselor to the forefront of K–12 education. According to the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), comprehensive school counseling programs are linked to higher student achievement, improved attendance, and stronger postsecondary planning. As schools work to build inclusive, supportive environments, trained counselors are becoming critical partners in promoting whole-student development.

For those pursuing a Master of Arts in Education: School Counseling, the career path is both meaningful and multifaceted. Whether you're drawn to guiding students through personal struggles, helping them chart college and career paths, or advocating for equity in education, this degree opens doors to high-impact roles within and beyond the classroom.

Explore MAEd: School Counseling Program at Concordia University Irvine >

What Does a School Counselor Do?

School counselors are more than just academic advisors — they are front-line advocates for student well-being, equipped to manage the dynamic and sometimes unpredictable needs of today’s learners. Their role requires a blend of emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills, all of which are developed through advanced counselor training.

While many people associate counseling with one-on-one student interactions, much of a school counselor's impact comes from systemic work: developing school-wide programs, leading classroom guidance sessions, and consulting with teachers and administrators to support learning outcomes and social-emotional development. The School Counselor’s role is to serve each and every student.

Key responsibilities often translate into skills such as:

• Crisis management and short-term counseling — Providing timely support to students in emotional distress
• College and career advising — Helping students plan their futures through intentional goal setting and skill development
• Social-emotional learning (SEL) facilitation — Leading classroom lessons or workshops on topics like resilience, empathy, and decision-making
• Collaborative problem-solving — Working with teachers and parents to build support plans for struggling students
• Equity advocacy — Ensuring that students from all backgrounds have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive

For those considering this career path, it’s important to recognize that school counseling isn't just about supporting individual students — it's about shaping the culture of a school to be safe, inclusive, and conducive to growth. As such, prospective counselors should be prepared to wear many hats and lead with both compassion and purpose.

Career Paths for School Counseling Graduates

A degree in school counseling opens doors to multiple high-impact roles across educational, nonprofit, and mental health settings. Below, we explore several career paths in greater depth — each with unique responsibilities, skill requirements, and areas of influence.

School Counselor (K–12)

For many graduates, this is the most familiar and direct path. School counselors in K–12 settings serve as the primary support system for students' academic, emotional, and career development needs, often acting as a bridge between students, families, and school staff.

Responsibilities: Provide direct academic, social-emotional, and college/career guidance to students in elementary, middle, or high school. Develop individual support plans, lead SEL initiatives, and respond to crises.

Skills Needed: Empathy, active listening, communication, classroom facilitation, student advocacy, and case management.

Typical Duties:

The Three Domains as outlined by ASCA are College/Career, Academic and Personal/Social

• Conduct individual and group counseling sessions
• Coordinate college- and career-readiness programs
• Support IEP and 504 plan implementation
• Collaborate with faculty and families on student concerns

College and Career Advisor

For school counseling graduates who are passionate about postsecondary planning, this role focuses specifically on helping students navigate the next phase of their academic or career journey.

Responsibilities: Guide high school students through the college application process, scholarship search, and career exploration. May also serve in college access organizations or private school settings.

Skills Needed: Organization, goal-setting, mentorship, and knowledge of higher education pathways.

Typical Duties:

• Host college and career-planning workshops
• Assist students with applications and financial aid
• Partner with colleges and employers to expand opportunities

Academic Intervention Specialist

This role is ideal for professionals who want to work intensively with students facing academic challenges. It requires a proactive approach to identifying learning gaps and designing effective support strategies.

Responsibilities: Identify and support students struggling academically through individualized plans, learning assessments, and progress monitoring.

Skills Needed: Data analysis, instructional support, collaboration, and intervention strategy development.

Typical Duties:

• Implement tiered interventions
• Monitor student progress and adjust plans accordingly
• Consult with teachers on accommodations and strategies

Postsecondary Education Counselor

Graduates interested in higher education environments may find fulfillment in supporting college students through transitional periods. This role emphasizes retention, development, and overall student success.

Responsibilities: Support students transitioning into or through college, often in community colleges or support programs. Focus on retention, academic planning, and student development.

Skills Needed: Counseling theory, academic advising, time management coaching, and crisis support.

Typical Duties:

• Conduct academic advising appointments
• Coordinate support services for at-risk students
• Facilitate student success workshops

​​District Counseling Coordinator

For those with leadership aspirations, this position allows experienced counselors to shape district-wide programs and ensure quality and consistency across schools.

Responsibilities: Oversee counseling programs across a school district, ensuring consistency, effectiveness, and alignment with state standards.

Skills Needed: Leadership, program development, data analysis, and staff training.

Typical Duties:

• Supervise school counselors
• Analyze district-wide student support data
• Develop strategic plans for counseling initiatives

School-Based Mental Health Specialist

Graduates with a strong interest in mental health may thrive in this specialized role, which provides targeted emotional and behavioral support within a school setting.

Responsibilities: Provide mental health support and intervention within school settings, often in collaboration with school psychologists and social workers.

Skills Needed: Mental health assessment, trauma-informed care, counseling techniques, and behavioral intervention.

Typical Duties:

• Conduct risk assessments and short-term mental health support
• Develop behavioral plans and coping strategies
• Partner in crisis response and prevention efforts

These roles demonstrate the versatility and impact of a school counseling degree. Whether working directly with students or influencing system-wide practices, graduates are equipped to meet the evolving needs of today’s schools and communities.

Salary and Job Outlook

School counseling is not only a fulfilling profession — it is one backed by strong job security and competitive salaries. As schools respond to increasing student needs, including mental health challenges, college and career readiness, and equity in access, the role of the school counselor has grown in both scope and value.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Employment of school counselors is projected to grow 4% through 2033, keeping pace with national averages for other educational roles
• The median annual wage for school counselors in 2023 was $61,710, with those in secondary school settings or administrative roles often earning more

Beyond salary, the overall employment landscape is favorable due to several converging trends:

• Increased state and federal funding for student support services
• Legislation focused on reducing student-to-counselor ratios
• A renewed focus on mental health in K–12 schools post-COVID-19

In California, the outlook is especially strong – with a job growth rate projected around 12.1%  from 2020 to 2030 (EDD State of California). The state has prioritized the expansion of mental health infrastructure within schools, investing in new roles and increasing demand for credentialed professionals. Many districts are actively recruiting school counselors to meet updated mandates and develop comprehensive, student-centered programs.

For graduates equipped with both the training and the credentials, opportunities are not only expanding — they are evolving, offering chances to lead, innovate, and shape the future of student support.

Certification and Licensure Requirements

To practice as a school counselor, most states require a master's degree in school counseling as well as state-specific licensure or certification.

In California, professionals must earn a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential in School Counseling, which includes fieldwork and coursework requirements aligned with state standards. The program at Concordia University Irvine is designed to meet these requirements and prepare graduates for successful certification.

Why Now Is a Smart Time to Pursue School Counseling

School counselors are no longer seen as optional support staff. They are essential leaders in the push for more equitable, responsive, and emotionally healthy school environments. The national conversation has shifted, with student mental health and academic recovery rising to the top of policy agendas. From implementing trauma-informed practices to expanding college access and advocating for underserved populations, school counselors are helping to shape a more inclusive and forward-thinking future for K–12 education.

Demand for school counselors is not only high — it’s urgent. Many school districts, especially in California, are under pressure to meet updated student-to-counselor ratio recommendations and to expand support systems that address the complex needs of today’s learners. In tandem with this, public investment is growing through increased funding streams for mental health and student services.

For prospective graduate students, this means two things: opportunity and impact. Now is the time to enter a field where your skills will be valued, your training in high demand, and your work directly tied to student success.

Preparing for a Career With Concordia University Irvine

As school districts nationwide invest more in student support and prioritize mental health, school counselors are stepping into an increasingly essential role. From shaping safe, inclusive learning environments to helping students navigate personal and academic challenges, school counselors are central to student success.

For aspiring professionals ready to step into this impactful field, the Master of Arts in Education: School Counseling program at Concordia University Irvine offers the preparation, flexibility, and values-based support needed to thrive. Designed with working adults in mind, the program is delivered in a hybrid-online format that combines the convenience of asynchronous coursework with engaging, live online sessions—giving students the structure they need without sacrificing flexibility.

This faith-informed program also offers:

• Hands-on fieldwork aligned with California’s Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credentialing standards
• Personalized mentorship from experienced faculty focused on real-world application
• A Christ-centered academic community that supports professional and personal growth

Whether you’re just beginning your career or seeking to expand your role in education, Concordia’s School Counseling program equips you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to lead with purpose, serve with compassion, and support students in meaningful ways—all while balancing your education with life’s other commitments.

Ready to take the next step toward a rewarding career in school counseling?

Learn more about Concordia’s MAEd in School Counseling program and apply today.