In America, today’s school counselors do a lot more than their predecessors. It may be hard to tell from the outside looking in, but they help teachers and staff handle various issues, counsel parents, and sometimes play a crucial part in shaping education policy. They are a pivotal part of the student success equation, and they help schools create supportive and safe environments for students.

Want to become a school counselor in the United States, but want to know how? Don’t worry; the Edvocate has your back. Check out this guide that we created explaining how to become a school counselor in Oregon.

Education Requirement: (1) A master’s degree in counseling, education, or relevant behavioral sciences from a regionally accredited US institution, (2) a bachelor’s degree, and (3) completion in Oregon or another US jurisdiction, as part of the master’s degree, or an initial graduate program in school counseling.

Necessary Courses: Evidence of knowledge of laws prohibiting discrimination in Oregon. (1) Submit Form C-2 proving you have finished a counselor education program within the last 3 years or (2) submit transcripts proving nine quarter hours of sanctioned academic credit completed within the last 3 years related to counseling or (3) submit verification of one year licensed educator experience in public schools or regionally accredited US private schools begun and completed within the last 3 years.

Experience Needed: (1) Completing a practicum sanctioned by the state (2) 2 academic years of experience as a teacher in a public, private, charter, or otherwise licensed school.

Assessment: (1) receive a minimum score of 610 on the Praxis Test of School Guidance and Counseling; and (2) receive a passing score on an assessment of basic verbal and computational skills.

Is an Institutional Recommendation Needed? Yes, required for certification

Licensure: K-12

Licensure Reciprocity: Yes, via transitional school counselor license, a 3-year nonrenewable license issued to candidates who have held an out-of-state school license or who have completed an out-of-state program in school counseling. The candidate must possess a master’s degree.

Criminal Background Investigation: Yes, fingerprints

Oregon Department of Education/school counseling