School Guidance Counseling Online Master's Degree Profile

In this online master's degree program, you will learn how to counsel students regarding college and career choices, as well as personal issues, such as family and peer problems. You will also learn how to work with schools and families to ensure students achieve academic and mental wellness.

Career Opportunities

Typical Careers

Graduates of this program usually seek careers in some aspect of school guidance counseling. The median income for all school guidance counselors in May 2006 was $47,530, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Below is a list of school counseling specialties, followed by their median yearly salaries (2006):

• Elementary or High School Guidance Counselor: $53,750
• Junior College Guidance Counselor: $48,240
• College, University or Professional School Guidance Counselor: $41,780

Job Outlook

The growth outlook for these jobs is expected to be the same as average for all positions, at about 13 percent between 2006 and 2016 (www.bls.gov). More states are now requiring schools to employ guidance counselors in elementary schools, which could lead to increased growth.

Degree Specifics

Classes

Most programs require classes, such as Group Counseling, Children and Adolescent Counseling, Advanced Developmental Psychology, Principals and Methods of Counseling and Guidance and Abnormal Psychology. Many programs also require internships.

Skills You Will Learn

Graduates will meet state requirements for licensure. Additionally, the program teaches them to help students solve problems, to be comfortable interacting with parents, students and teachers and to be knowledgeable in all aspects of school counseling.